Candidates with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in pharmacy, chemistry, biology or other related disciplines are invited to apply. Applicants must have demonstrated proficiency in verbal and written English and in fundamental scientific areas such as organic and physical chemistry, biochemistry, biology, mathematics, statistics and computer science.

A. Admissions Criteria
The Admissions Committee will consider applications based on the following factors:

1. Overall Grade Point Average (GPA)
   A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. Special attention is given to the grades achieved in science courses relevant to our program (e.g., chemistry, biology, biochemistry, pharmacology and mathematics).
2. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Score
   A minimum combined GRE scores of 1000 in the Verbal and Quantitative areas is required. However, priority for financial support is given to applicants with GRE scores of 1200 or higher.
3. Letters of Recommendation
   Three letters from faculty knowledgeable of the student's ability and capability are required. These letters should provide a thorough assessment of the student's experience in laboratory research, ability to communicate in verbal and written English, motivation and creativity, and other qualities in the student's academic performance.
4. TOEFL Scores for International Applicants
   A minimum score of 500 is required for admission; 550 is required for appointment as a teaching assistant.
5. Research and Professional Experience
   Students' research and professional experience as cited in their application, resume (if provided), published manuscripts and letters of reference will be evaluated to assess background preparation for success within the Ph.D. program.

B. Financial Aid
Students accepted into the USC School of Pharmacy Ph.D. program are typically provided financial aid including full tuition remission and a stipend to cover living expenses (currently $25,309 for 12 months). Graduate students are appointed as Teaching Assistants and participate in training students in the Pharm.D. program.

C. Application Deadline
Applications may be submitted anytime after Sept 1 until January 1, the deadline for consideration for admission for the following Fall semester. Applicants will be reviewed as their applications are received, beginning in the Fall. Early acceptance will be offered to outstanding applicants.

Consideration for certain USC Scholarships and Fellowships begins in December. Applications must be received by December 1 to receive full consideration for these opportunities.

Admissions decisions will continue to be made until the class is filled, usually mid to late Spring. Applications are only considered for admission beginning in the Fall term, except under exceptional circumstances.

Application Packets
All Students:
Graduate Program Application