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Admissions

The Chemical Biology program uses a holistic process to evaluate applications. Applicants have the option to submit GRE scores (both subject and general) if they prefer. Submitted GRE scores will be considered though they are not required and in recent years the number of applicants submitting GRE scores has decreased. Information on fee waivers can be found on the GSAS website. Please refer to the GSAS Admissions page for further information on applying. Some of the most important details are noted here for your convenience.

Admissions Information

Deadline to Apply: December 1, 2026 at 5pm EST.

Online application (required)

Find more detailed admissions information on the GSAS website.

Requirements

We require online submission of the application. Applicants are required to submit a scanned copy of their transcript(s) online. GRE scores, both subject and general, are not required.

Applicants must hold the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree (BA or BS) from an institution of recognized standing (either a three- or four-year undergraduate degree).

Submitting Supplemental Materials

GRE and TOEFL scores should be sent to Harvard University, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences code 3451. GRE scores, both the subject and general exam, are optional.
 
All supplemental materials must be uploaded before submitting the online application.

Faculty Contact/Interests

Please be sure to list faculty that interest you as part of the online application. Students are not required to contact any faculty in advance, but are welcome to.

Recruitment

The Harvard Integrated Life Sciences (HILS) Virtual Open Houses for 2026 will be held on:

  • Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. (ET). Register here. 
  • Thursday, November 12, 2026, 3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. (ET). Register here. 

Join us for the Harvard Griffin GSAS Graduate School Interviews Webinar:

  • Thursday, December 3, 2026, 3:00 p.m.–4:30 p.m. (ET). Register here. 

Join us for future open houses to:

  • learn about life sciences PhD programs and non-degree concentrations at Harvard
  • connect with program faculty, staff, and students
  • identify a HILS program that is a good fit for your research interests
  • learn how to put together a strong application

Harvard Griffin GSAS Graduate School Interviews Webinar

  • December 3, 3:00-4:30 PM ET

Register here: https://harvard.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tgKcHQ8CTneL6G_po9qnHw 

Please note that the virtual open houses will not be recorded. For any questions, please email hils@fas.harvard.edu.

Harvard Griffin GSAS does not discriminate against applicants or students on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry or any other protected classification.