Degree and prerequisite coursework requirements

• Satisfactory completion of a bachelor’s degree with strong coursework in the sciences from a regionally accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher.
• If an applicant has completed a degree(s) from institutions outside of the United States, he/she must request an official course-by-course evaluation from World Education Services (www.wes.org) that validates equivalency to a U.S. degree.
• Demonstrated research experience

Test requirements

• Admission to the Cancer Biology PhD program is test-optional. A candidate may submit an official score report from the GRE, PCAT, DAT, OAT, or MCAT.

PCOM Admissions Committees review applications holistically, taking several factors into account when assessing applications for interview and acceptance to the Cancer Biology PhD program. Interviews and admissions decisions for the program are granted not solely on academics, but after consideration of all aspects of an application including but not limited to: letters of recommendation, autobiographical statements, and research experience. The candidate's application, personal statement, and interviews should demonstrate their passion and interest in cancer biology, as the program seeks individuals motivated to make meaningful contributions to understanding and treating cancer. Additionally, the ideal candidate should possess dedication, resilience, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. The candidate needs to understand the program's strengths and how their research interests correspond to those of the faculty.

Cancer Biology Application Process

Prospective students may submit their application through PCOM's online application management system. Additional details, including application availability and instructions, are available at explore.pcom.edu/apply.

This academic program operates on a rolling admissions basis. The application closes on Friday, August 22, 2025, but an early application is highly recommended.  Classes for the PhD program in Cancer Biology begin in the Fall term only (early-September).

Note that official college transcripts from all colleges/universities/schools attended must be sent directly to:

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Office of Admissions
4170 City Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19131

We will accept electronic transcripts via email from Parchment Services and National Student Clearinghouse.

Once your application has been submitted, you will be contacted via email with a confirmation within 7 business days of its receipt including reminders of the appropriate steps to complete the application process.

As an applicant to PCOM's Cancer Biology (PhD) program, you are responsible for ensuring that all admissions materials are completed accurately and submitted in a timely manner.

Online interviews are conducted for admission into the Cancer Biology (PhD) program. A candidate will be contacted via email if selected to interview.

Cancer Biology Application Processing and Assessment

Your Cancer Biology (PhD) program application will be processed and assessed by the appropriate Faculty Committee on Admissions only after the receipt of:

• Non-refundable application fee of $75 (required to begin application processing)

• Official transcripts for all colleges and universities attended

• Fulfillment of the Letter of Recommendation requirement (see instructions below)

Permanent Residents of the U.S. will be required to provide a copy of their Permanent Resident card ("green card") prior to admission. NOTE: Permanent Residency status "pending" is not eligible for admission.

Important reminder for your Cancer Biology program application submission

It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure the receipt of all required materials by PCOM. Candidates are expected to review the applicant portals frequently and to exercise patience during the processing of all application materials.

We do not provide status updates, but encourage applicants to access their PCOM application portal to review their materials.

PCOM requires all students to adhere to PCOM's Technical Standards for Admission and Matriculation (PDF).

Letters of Recommendation

The letter of recommendation requirement for Cancer Biology admission is as follows.

A minimum of two (2) letters of recommendation (three (3) preferred) are required from individuals who know the applicant in a professional capacity and can comment on one's character, work ethic, academic history, scientific acumen, research skills, empathy, compassion, resilience, emotional intelligence and commitment to a career in research. The Faculty Committee of Admissions strongly prefers that the letters be from the following sources:

• Undergraduate, graduate or post-baccalaureate faculty (preferably those who delivered a candidate’s completed science coursework), who can attest to academic performance and aptitude. We highly recommend at least one letter from an academic source.

• Researchers with whom a candidate has had a professional relationship, who can attest to the applicant's research experiences and overall fit for the profession.

Candidates who may not have the ability to submit letters from any/all of the above sources should select letter writers who know them in a professional capacity and can comment on the applicant's character, work ethic, academic history, scientific acumen, empathy, compassion, resilience, emotional intelligence, commitment and/or knowledge of the research environment.