- How are application materials evaluated? Acceptance into the graduate program is based on academic performance, research experience, motivation, and how well the applicant meets the needs of the department to fulfill our teaching and research missions. All aspects are considered. For example, academic excellence may compensate for a lack of research experience and vice versa.
- Is the GRE required? The GRE is not required
- Do international students need to take an English language test and what are the minimum scores? The minimum TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores for international students are 80, 6.5 and 105, respectively. An English language test is not required for students from countries teaching in English (see https://gradschool.nmsu.edu/future-students/requirements/english-proficiency-trascript-evaluation.html for a complete list)
- Can the application fee be waived? There is no application fee for your first application to NMSU. If you apply to another program or decide to reapply after being declined, you may be asked to submit an application fee.
- Are unofficial transcripts acceptable? Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the application. Official transcripts are only required upon admittance.
- Is it required to contact potential research mentors? It is strongly recommended that you contact potential research advisors to ensure availability and compatible research interests, but it is not required.
- May I apply for spring admission? We do accept applications for spring admission, but all application materials must be received before the July 15 deadline for internationals students.
- May I apply for a degree in Biochemistry? The Department does not offer an advanced degree in Biochemistry, only Chemistry. However, your thesis research can be conducted with a biochemistry faculty member and biochemistry is included in the course curriculum.
- Am I eligible for an assistantship? All graduate students are supported by either a teaching or research assistantship for the duration of their studies. The annual assistantship salary for a first-year student for the 2024-2025 academic year is $31,451. The salary increases as you make progress toward your degree
- Will my tuition and insurance be covered? If you went to high school in New Mexico and are a NM resident, full tuition is covered through the NM Higher Education Department (NM-HED) STEM Graduate Scholarship. If you are not eligible for the NM-HED scholarship, your tuition may be covered by the department. Departmental scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis. All teaching assistants are eligible for discounted in-state tuition at approximately $3,000 per academic year, and research assistance receive full tuition coverage. Low-cost insurance plans are available to graduate students through the BeWellNM portal
- Is there a graduate workers union? Yes. The rights and responsibilities of graduate students are covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
- May I apply with a bachelor's degree? Students holding B.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry or related degree are eligible to apply for either M.S. or Ph.D. degrees
