How to Apply

Step One

Meet our minimum requirements for admission

• Strong research background in genetics, statistics, plant breeding, biochemistry, or other life science.
  • Successful applicants typically have a M.S. degree in plant breeding or closely-related biological areas such as agricultural, horticultural, forestry, biological or chemical sciences. Undergraduate students with advanced coursework and strong research experience are encouraged to apply.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• Non-US applicants needone of the following English language proficiency exams:
  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) (iBT & Home Edition): 80
  • TOEFL (PBT): 550
  • IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System): 6.0

For more information on English proficiency visit the UF Admissions International Applicants page. 

Step Two

Gather your documents

All applicants must submit a UF Online Graduate Application. Below is a list of documents that need to be uploaded to your online application. Make sure you have all documentation before starting your application:

• Statement of Purpose: This is your opportunity to let us know what makes you are a strong Ph.D. candidate, why you are a good fit for the program and how your interests align with those of your  faculty of interest. Describe your previous research, educational, or professional experiences, long term career goals and current research interests. The statement of purpose is limited to 500 words.
• Three Letters of Recommendation: These letters should be from scientists or other professionals who can attest to your potential as a graduate student. This is automated and will require contact information for your references.
  • Just sending the online request to your recommenders does not mean the letters have been actually submitted/received. Check your application regularly to ensure recommendation letters have been indeed submitted.
  • If recommenders are not able to submit their letters electronically via the online application, please have them email letters directly to Eliana Kampf. Letters should be prefaced by this Recommendation Letter Form. We do not accept letters sent by applicants. 
• Transcripts: Arrange to have official transcripts from each post-secondary institution previously attended sent to the UF Office of Admissions (PO Box 114000, 201 Criser Hall, Gainesville FL 32611-4000), 352-392-1365 (phone), 352-392-2115 (fax).
  • International applicants only: need to provide official diploma, degree certificate, transcripts and other academic credentials in the original language as well as their official English translations. For more information on submitting transcripts and their review process visit the UF Admission webpage for International Students and scroll down to Transcript Submission and Review.
• CV/Résumé: Please upload a current résumé or curriculum vitae (CV) in this section which should reflect your relevant academic and professional accomplishments. Pursuant to Florida Statute, your application requires inclusion of all post-high school education and employment, as well as information about ongoing international affiliations and research funding. Please ensure this information is included on your CV or résumé.
• International applicants only: Have English language competency exam results sent directly to UF from the testing agency. Please use code 5812 (UF Institutional Code). For further information on the English proficiency requirement and to check what countries are exempt from the this requirement visit UF Admissions – International Applicants.

Step Three

Submit the online application

• Complete the Online Graduate Application by answering the required sections and uploading documents.
  • Select the correct Program of Study: click on 'College of Agricultural and Life Sciences' and then select 'Plant Breeding' OR type Plant Breeding in the 'Search for a Program' box.
• Pay Fee: $30 non-refundable Application Fee payment plus $7 processing fee.