We are pleased that you are considering the Rice Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology (SSPB) Ph.D. program for your graduate education! The application for Fall 2027 matriculation can be accessed here.

Applications received before December 7, 2026, will receive priority consideration, but applications will be accepted until January 4, 2027. All application materials must be received by the indicated dates above to be considered for admissions.

When completing the online application, applicants will be asked to electronically submit the following:

1. Transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate schools attended. Unofficial transcripts may be uploaded for initial evaluation; however, applicants who are accepted must submit official transcripts before matriculating.
2. At least three letters of recommendation from research mentors, teachers, or advisors
3. A curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
4. Short statements describing your: (i) research interests for future study, (ii) reasons for applying to the SSPB program, such as philosophical interests, motivations, aspirations, and alignment with specific research groups, and (iii) an optional diversity statement.
5. International students requiring visas will be required to meet the language proficiency requirements.

All application materials must be received by the final deadline to be considered for admission. Rice University policies and procedures regarding admissions requirements may be found in the General Announcements.

Note that the SSPB program waives the application fee for all applicants. You do not need to request a waiver; it will be automatically applied.

Questions? Please visit the Application FAQs or email sspb-apply@rice.edu.

Please note that due to the volume of applications we receive each year, we are not able to provide a status update beyond the message you will receive once your application is submitted. We will not tell you the status of your application over the phone or via e-mail.