The School of Graduate Studies - New Brunswick
Areas of Concentration
Program Requirements
- Transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- Minimum 3 letters of recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Resume/CV
- Application Fee
- Transcript Evaluation (Optional) (International students only)
For more information, visit the program's website.
Test Requirements
- Official GRE Scores (Optional)
Proof of English Proficiency: Rutgers accepts TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo. If you attended a university where instruction was in English, you may submit a letter confirming this. Refer to your program for specific score requirements.
Personal Statement Instructions
In your personal statement, please respond to each of the following short essay questions separately, keeping each response within the specified word limit. As you prepare your responses, consider the categories (see the program’s website for details) that the Graduate Program’s Admissions Committee uses to holistically evaluate and rank applications, as many are reflected in the questions below.
1. Why do you want to obtain a graduate degree in Ecology and Evolution and how does this relate to your long-term goals? (150-200 words)
2. What are your specific research interests and why is Rutgers Ecology and Evolution an appropriate program for you? This could include the match between your interests and your proposed advisor's. (150-200 words)
3. How have your academic or other intellectual experiences prepared you for graduate coursework and research? (150-200 words)
4. Have you had any pivotal research experience and how this has guided your thinking about applying to Ecology and Evolution? (300-500 words)
5. In what ways have you pushed past obstacles and adapted to changing situations? (150-200 words)
6. How have you demonstrated leadership, clear communication, organizational skills, and the ability to work in a team? (150-200 words)
7. In what ways have you demonstrated creativity and innovation in approaching science or other problem-solving? (150-200 words)
8. Please comment on one or both of the following. Your potential to contribute distinctive perspectives to our intellectual community and to the fields of ecology and evolution, as demonstrated through life experiences and educational, cultural, or socioeconomic background. Your commitment to broadening participation in science and making it accessible to communities both within and beyond the University. (150-200 words)
