Weill Cornell Graduate School FAQ

What is Unique About the Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences?

WCGS is unique among peer institutions because we are integrated within a world-class medical center. Our students work on the leading edge of biomedical research learning first hand how breakthroughs at the bench translate into new therapies for diseases. Students are trained in the scientific method by faculty researchers who have an unparalleled commitment to mentoring young scientists. To learn more, visit About Us.

Do Graduate Students Receive Fellowships?

Yes. Each student accepted to the PhD degree-granting programs is awarded a full tuition scholarship, which includes all tuition, fees, and health insurance (approximately $27,000). Additionally, each PhD student receives a generous annual stipend intended to support his/her basic living expenses; the stipend is $32,150 for academic year 2009-2010.

To learn more, visit Financial Support.

What Areas of Study Does the Graduate School Offer?

The Graduate School offers doctoral degrees in seven programs of study:

How Long Does it Usually Take to Earn a PhD?

WCGS expects students in its predoctoral programs to complete their degrees within six years. For more information, see Degree Requirements.

Where do Graduates go After They Complete Their PhD Studies?

Most of our graduates go on to postdoctoral positions at academic institutions. Recent graduates, for example, have accepted positions at MIT, Harvard, Columbia, NYU, and UCLA. Others pursue careers in the private sector with companies in the biotechnology or pharmaceuticals industries, or in consulting.

Is Housing Available for Graduate Students?

Yes. WCGS offers affordable apartment housing to all full-time students for the PhD training period. Student housing is within a few blocks of classrooms and laboratories, in a neighborhood of residences, shops and restaurants, and medical facilities on Manhattan's Upper East Side.

The Graduate School makes the housing assignments for its students, accommodating singles and families in studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments, or dormitory-style residences.

To learn more, visit Housing & Services.

How do I Apply to the Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences?

All applications for our PhD programs must be made online. Click here to learn about the application process and access the application site.

Is the Application Process Different for International Students?

No. All prospective students submit the same online application.

What is the Application Deadline? Is There a Cost to Apply?

December 1 is the deadline for online applications, test scores, and supporting materials. There is an application fee of $60. Instructions for making this payment are included in the online application. Click here to learn about the application process and access the application site.

After I Submit my Application, What Happens Next?

Completed applications and supporting information are initially screened by faculty of the program of study to which the student is applying. The strongest candidates are invited to attend the Graduate School's "Recruitment Days" held in February. During the two-day period, applicants experience program orientation; personal interviews; and opportunities to interact with fellow applicants, current graduate students, and faculty.

Following Recruitment Days, each program forwards recommendations on candidates for acceptance to the Graduate School Dean, who notifies candidates of their acceptance.

How Can I Contact the Graduate School?

The Graduate School Office is open Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm, Eastern Standard Time.

Telephone: 212-746-6565
Fax: 212-746-8906
E-mail: gsms@med.cornell.edu

Mailing Address:

Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences
1300 York Ave.
Box 65
New York, NY 10065

For more detailed contact information, visit Contact Us.