Applying to Stanford

Previously part of the Biology Department, Hopkins Marine Station is now part of the Oceans Department within the Doerr School of Sustainability.  Several faculty took appointments in Oceans, while others chose to stay in Biology; still others have joint appointments. We are still in the process of building a full Oceans curriculum and PhD program; therefore, for the 2022-2023 PhD application season, applications processes will be run through existing Biology and Earth System Science programs. 

More specifically, Oceans faculty will be recruiting students through the Earth Systems Science application. For those faculty appointed 50/50 in Biology and Oceans, they have the option to  recruit students via the Biology Department (CMOB or Eco/Evo track) or Earth Systems Science. For those remaining in Biology, only the Biology application will be used. Given the complexity of admissions this cycle, it's imperative that you reach out to the individual Hopkins faculty members you hope to work with regarding the appropriate application and track to choose. 

A few quick tips below from our current graduate students when applying:
 

  • Keep in mind that your official undergraduate transcript request will take a long time to process, so order transcripts well in advance.
  • Ask for your letters of recommendation way before they are due (1-2 months prior).
  • Give yourself plenty of time to fill out the application. The online component has several sections.
  • In your "Statement of Purpose" essay be sure to include your specific research interests and how they mesh with those of your potential adviser(s).
  • Have your essay proofread by as many people as possible.
  • There is an application fee of $125, but this can be waived if it is prohibitive.  Please don't let this fee prevent you form applying!! Find out more about the fee waiver here.