Ecology, Evolution and Behavior

Application for Graduate Admissions

Go to the University of Minnesota online application.

Complete all required fields:

• Personal information
• Application background
• TOEFL test information - if applicable
• Languages
• Awards and activities
• Employment/Residence information
• Financial support
• Personal Statement
• Diversity Statement
• Resume/CV
• Three recommendation letters

All materials must be submitted into the online application. Once you submit, your application is final. No changes or additions will be accepted.

Note that the EEB Graduate Program does not consider GRE scores in admission decisions.

Application Fee

$75 for U.S. applicants, $95 for international applicants. Click here for more information on the application fee.

The EEB program does not waive or defer application fees. US citizens and permanent residents can apply for a fee waiver through the Big 10 Academic Alliance. For more information, go to https://btaa.org/resources-for/students/freeapp/introduction.

Transcripts

Unofficial transcripts or academic records must be uploaded directly to the online application. Instructions for uploading transcripts are available here.

International students should also upload an English translation if the transcript is not in English. Click here for more information on international transcripts and credentials.

Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts, as this may cause serious delays in the processing of your application.

There is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review. If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material. See the Graduate School's Application Information page for details.

English Proficiency

The University of Minnesota accepts several different credentials for demonstrating English proficiency, including TOEFL and IELTS.  For complete information, go to https://grad.umn.edu/admissions/application-instructions/international-student-resources/english-language-proficiency.

To have TOEFL scores sent directly to the University of Minnesota, use the school code 6874.  You may leave the department code blank, or enter 99 (for departments that are not listed).

Personal Statement

The Personal Statement is required. Please limit this statement to no more than 3 pages and address your motivation for applying to the EEB program as well as your research and career goals. Your statement must list the EEB faculty you wish to work with and why you want to study with them.  Your statement should address any relevant research experiences, internships, or other experiences that have shaped your interests in pursuing a graduate degree in EEB.  This statement is an important part of your application and will be read carefully by the EEB Graduate Faculty for content and coherence. 

Diversity Statement

The Diversity Statement is required for all applicants. Enrolling and graduating a diverse student body is central to the University of Minnesota's mission. Please limit this statement to no more than 2 pages and identify the distinctive qualities, characteristics, and life experiences you would contribute to your graduate program and to the education of fellow students at the University of Minnesota. You may wish to include examples that address your contribution to the diversity of the student body and illustrate your motivation to succeed by setting high standards for accomplishing intellectual and other goals, overcoming obstacles to achievement, and/or helping others to gain access to the resources necessary for success.

Note: For US Citizens and Permanent Residents, this statement will be used to determine if you are eligible to be nominated by the admissions committee for a Diversity of Views and Experiences Fellowship (DOVE Fellowship). Your statement should indicate how your background, experiences, and achievements will contribute to the University's goal of promoting excellence through diversity. If applicable, nominees should mention hardships or obstacles that they have overcome to complete their undergraduate education.

Description of Research or Work Experience

Do not upload a separate document in this field.

Your work or research experience should be included in your Personal Statement, after your immediate and long-range career objectives.

Writing Sample

Writing samples are not required by our program.

Resume or CV

Upload your resume or CV in PDF format. Do not upload more than one copy.

Letters of recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required. Acceptable recommendations will come from current or former professors who can assess your potential for graduate work. Additional referees, such as employers, are also acceptable. 

All letters must be submitted via the University of Minnesota online application.