Prospective Students
How to Apply
Please visit the Biosciences PhD Admissions website for detailed information on the admissions process and requirements. We only accept applications once per year for the Autumn quarter entry only. The application deadline for Autumn 2027-28 is Tuesday, December 1, 2026, at 11:59:59 pm (PST). Late applications will not be accepted.
The admissions committee will promptly begin to review applicant files the day following the application deadline. It is important that all of your application materials, including letters of recommendation, are submitted by the deadline. We cannot guarantee the review of any materials received after the deadline.
To check your application status, click here to Visit Your Status Page.
Any questions or concerns about the application process should be addressed to: biosciences@stanford.edu
The Developmental Biology department recognizes that the Supreme Court issued a ruling in June 2023 about the consideration of certain types of demographic information as part of an admission review. All applications submitted during upcoming application cycles will be reviewed in conformance with that decision.
The Developmental Biology department welcomes graduate applications from individuals with a broad range of life experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds who would contribute to our community of scholars. The review process is holistic and individualized, considering each applicant’s academic record and accomplishments, letters of recommendation, prior research experience, and admissions essays to understand how an applicant’s life experiences have shaped their past and potential contributions to their field and how they might enrich the learning community at Stanford.
Join dozens of Stanford Medicine students who receive up to three years of funding and valuable leadership skills as Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS).
KHS admits up to 100 applicants each year from across Stanford's seven graduate schools, and delivers engaging experiences that prepare them to be visionary, courageous, and collaborative leaders ready to address complex global challenges. As a scholar, you join a multidisciplinary and multicultural cohort, participate in up to three years of KHS's leadership program, and receive funding for up to three years of your graduate studies at Stanford.
Citizens of any country may apply. KHS applicants must have earned their first undergraduate degree within the last seven years, and must submit separate applications to KHS and to an eligible Stanford graduate degree program. Stanford PhD students may also apply to KHS during their first year of PhD enrollment.
If you aspire to be a leader in your field, we invite you to apply. The KHS application deadline is October 6, 2026 at 1:00 p.m PT. Learn more about KHS admission.
Important Dates
December 1, 2026: Application Deadline (Late applications will not be accepted)
Early to Mid-January 2027: Invitations to Interview Session Sent
March 3-6, 2027: Interview Session
April 15, 2027: Deadline to Accept Offer of Admission
Contact Information
Stanford Biosciences PhD Admissions
Email: biosciences@stanford.edu
Website: https://biosciences.stanford.edu/