About Biology at University of California, San Diego (UCSD)
Biology covers molecular and cell biology, genetics, ecology, neuroscience and biotechnology, and leads to careers in research, healthcare, biotech and pharmaceuticals.
At University of California, San Diego (UCSD) (QS World University Rankings 2026: #66) in San Diego, Biology is one of the subject areas international students choose most. UC San Diego sits on the Pacific coast in La Jolla and is part of the University of California system.
Degree levels for Biology
- Bachelor’s — typical length in the US: 4 years
- PhD — typical length in the US: usually 5–6 years
Program names, specialisations and exact length differ by department — check the official program page before applying.
Admission requirements for Biology at UC San Diego
- Bachelor’s: apply through the UC Application with transcripts, essays, recommendations and English scores.
- Master’s / PhD: a relevant bachelor’s degree, statement of purpose, recommendations, CV and English scores; some programs ask for the GRE. PhD applicants should show research experience and interests.
- English: TOEFL iBT around 80–100 or IELTS Academic 6.5–7.0 (requirements vary by program).
Fees and funding
University tuition (undergraduate, university-wide): Approx. $46,000 – $52,000 per year (non-resident undergraduate tuition and fees). Graduate and professional fees for Biology are set separately by the school. PhD students are usually funded through fellowships and teaching or research assistantships. Limited merit scholarships for international undergraduates; graduate students can apply for teaching and research assistantships.
Careers and work after graduation
F-1 graduates can apply for up to 12 months of OPT. Most Biology degrees are STEM-designated, so graduates are often eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.
Apply for Biology at UC San Diego with GIEC Global
GIEC Global offers free counselling, program shortlisting, SOP guidance, application support and F-1 visa assistance for Biology at University of California, San Diego (UCSD).
