Admission to the Biology MS Program is competitive, and multiple factors are considered in the decision to admit new graduate students. Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program. The Biology Graduate Program Committee conducts a holistic review of all applicants, which considers, but is not limited to, admission qualifications, academic ability and achievement, skills and experience, and ability to contribute to the research of the Biology Department.

To be considered for admission to the graduate program in biology, prospective candidates must first meet all requirements for graduate admission to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, as well as the other admission requirements listed below:

Bachelor's degree in biology or related field from an accredited institution in the United States or recognized international equivalent. Either (A) an undergraduate degree with major in biology or (B) 30 hours of undergraduate courses in biological sciences or closely related disciplines.
Preferred undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 in upper-level biology or related field coursework.
Two letters of recommendation from professional or academic people who are familiar with the applicant's undergraduate or higher scholastic record.
Personal statement explaining a) academic and professional goal(s) and objectives, b) preparation for graduate studies, c) research or other professional experience, and d) area of interest in biology. The letter must state whether you are pursuing the thesis or non-thesis option, and if thesis option, who your graduate faculty supervisor will be.
Applicants pursuing the thesis option must have a commitment from a faculty member to supervise the master's thesis to be admitted to the MS Biology program with thesis. Students pursing the thesis option and seeking a faculty supervisor should contact the Department of Biology for guidance. Students who do not have a commitment from a faculty memeber to supervise the master's thesis will be considered for the non-thesis option.
A Curriculum Vitae or Resume
GRE General Test. GRE test scores are valid for 5 years. A waiver of the GRE requirement will be granted to applicants who show proof of completing a previous graduate degree (master's or doctoral).

IELTS 6.5
TOFEL ibt 79
TOFEL pbt 550