California Institute of Technology

PhD in Biology

Pasadena, United States 4 years Taught in English Open to international students

Why students choose this program

  • Taught in English
  • Applications currently open

About PhD in Biology

The application deadline for PhD in Biology is Nov 21, 2026. Tuition fees for PhD in Biology are 60,816 USD per year.

The PhD in Biology at California Institute of Technology is a 4-year degree for students with a Master's degree. It helps students gain depth of experience and competence in a particular specialty.

The curriculum covers subjects like biophysics, cellular biology, and molecular biology. Students develop skills in basic science and self-education, preparing them for a long career.

Graduates can pursue careers as research scientists, biology professors, biotechnologists, microbiologists, or geneticists, working in industries like healthcare, academia, or research institutions.

About California Institute of Technology

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in Pasadena is internationally renowned for its focus on science and engineering and for a research environment that emphasizes discovery and innovation. Founded in 1891, Caltech combines small class sizes with world-class faculty and a culture that encourages independent inquiry. The institute’s achievements in fundamental research and technology transfer make it a top choice for students seeking an intensive STEM education and close mentorship from leading scholars.

Caltech offers a compact, high-impact academic setting where undergraduates and graduate students participate directly in cutting-edge projects across physics, biology, engineering and computation. Research opportunities are abundant and accessible, with students contributing to labs, observatories and centers that address global challenges. The collaborative, interdisciplinary approach cultivates both deep technical expertise and the ability to work across fields.

As a relatively small campus community, Caltech provides strong academic support, mentorship and networking in the greater Los Angeles research ecosystem. For international students drawn to rigorous STEM training, Caltech delivers concentrated resources, hands-on research experiences and pathways to meaningful scientific contribution in industry, academia and public service.

English Test Requirement

This program asks for IELTS 5.5-6.0. Here's what that's worth on the other tests universities accept, based on the official concordance tables:

Duolingo

English Test · fastest & cheapest

85–95

Take the Duolingo Test We earn a referral credit
TOEFL iBT
46–59
PTE Academic
42–49
CEFR level
B1/B2
Convert your own score

Equivalences are approximate — confirm the exact test and score the program accepts.

PhD in Biology: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the fees for PhD in Biology?
Tuition: USD 60,816 per year. Application fee: USD 105. Service fee: USD 100.
What are the entry requirements for PhD in Biology?
Entry requirements include: Education: Master's Degree; Academic performance: Grade A (70%+, GPA 3+); English: IELTS 5.5-6.0; Minimum age: 18.
How long is the PhD in Biology program?
The program duration is 4 year.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 2026-11-21.
Is PhD in Biology available online?
This is an on-campus program at California Institute of Technology in Pasadena.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

Direct application via Global Admissions is not available for this program. Browse similar partner programs below or visit the university's site to apply directly.

Edit Program

Related Blog Posts

Show More Blog Posts →

Takes about 15 minutes

Complete your profile to unlock

Direct application links unlock once your profile is at least 80% complete. You're currently at 0%. It only takes a minute.