PhD in Oral Biology Admissions FAQ

Question Where can I find more information about the Oral Biology PhD program?

The program's main page and associated links contain a wealth of information about the Oral Biology Program.

Question Does the program accept international students?

Yes. International students are welcome to apply.

Question What are the admissions requirements?

All requirements, including minimum grade point averages, English language test scores, and application materials, can be found on Oral Biology’s Graduate and Professional Admissions webpage and associated links. Additional links with specific information include:

•   Requirements and deadlines for graduate programs
•   Additional requirements for international students
•   Steps to Apply

Question Are there other materials I'll need to submit?

The program also requires the following, which can be uploaded with your application:

Three Letters of Recommendation
Your Curriculum Vitae
A Statement of Purpose that includes a discussion of your background, extracurricular activities and leadership experiences as well as your motivation for research, experience and career goals
A current photo

Question Do I need to have a DDS or equivalent degree to enter the program?

No. Many of our students do have a DDS or equivalent degree, but not all. The minimum requirement is a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in one of the biological or physical sciences or engineering.

Question Should I reach out to a program faculty member before applying?

Yes. You can peruse all program faculty members, their research interests, and their lab availability on the Oral Biology PhD Program Faculty webpage.

Question Is completion of the GRE required?

No. You are welcome to submit GRE scores but they are not required. Please know that GRE scores are only valid for five years.

Question How are transcripts handled?

You must submit official transcripts with your application. Graduate and Professional Admissions only considers a transcript official if it comes from the institution directly to them at gpadocs@osu.edu. You can learn more about transcript requirements on the Graduate and Professional Admission’s website.

Question What funding opportunities are available?

Funding is available for students, both domestic and international, in the form of Graduate Research Associateship (GRA) positions. GRAs often cover tuition and most fees and provide a monthly stipend.

The College of Dentistry has a limited number of GRA positions. A faculty advisor may also elect to fund a GRA position. Thus, it is important to contact at least one faculty member prior to applying to determine the availability of funding.

Financial aid options are also available with information located on the Student Financial Aid website.

Question How much does it cost?

The cost can vary greatly depending on enrollment, state residency status, and funding. The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for full-time Ohio residents is around $22,000 a year for the 2025-26 academic year. For full-time non-residents, the cost is about $67,000 a year. Funding via GRA positions can reduce the total cost.

Keep in mind that these are estimated costs and are subject to change.

Question What comes next after applying?

Graduate and Professional Admissions will provide you with the information you need to log in to your Applicant Center. Use the Applicant Center to check your application status and to keep track of any outstanding requirements. More information can be found near the bottom of the Graduate and Professional Admissions Apply Online webpage. Also, be sure to check out the After You Are Admitted website. And, if you’re an international student, read through the Additional Requirements After You Are Admitted page.

Still have questions? Contact us:

Aaron Bagent
Senior Academic Programs Specialist
College of Dentistry
4133 Postle Hall
305 W. 12th Ave.
Columbus, OH 43210-1267
dent-dentistrygraduateeducation@osu.edu