Admission Requirements

Applications are first reviewed for academic eligibility. Admission is contingent upon securing a faculty supervisor. While a supervisor is not required to apply, applicants are strongly encouraged to contact faculty members whose research aligns with their interests. This outreach should include a CV, transcript, and a brief explanation of shared research interests.

Applicants who meet academic requirements but do not secure a supervisor will not be admitted.

Both the Master’s and PhD programs are full-time, research-based, and require in-person attendance.

Master's Program (MSc)

Applicants must hold a four-year Bachelor’s degree (Honours preferred) from a recognized institution. A minimum average of 80% in the final two years is recommended, equivalent to a high second-class standing at some universities.

It is strongly recommended that applicants have completed university-level courses in biological and natural sciences. Second-year biological science courses are particularly helpful for success in the required Principles of Neuroscience course. Students from diverse academic backgrounds are welcome to apply.

PhD Program

Applicants must hold an Honours or Master’s degree in Neuroscience or a related field with a strong research component, or an MD, DDS, or DVS degree with neuroscience specialization. A minimum average of 80% in the final two years is recommended; direct-entry PhD applicants require at least 85%.

Currently, only candidates with degrees from recognized universities are admitted directly into the PhD program. Others must first enroll in the MSc program and may transfer to the PhD within 18 months, subject to excellent progress and a suitable research project.

English Language Proficiency

International applicants whose first language is not English must submit one of the following:

  • TOEFL iBT (minimum score of 100, with no section below 25)
  • IELTS (minimum overall score of 7)
  • Duolingo English Test (minimum score of 120)

Proof of English proficiency is waived for applicants who have studied for at least two years at a post-secondary institution in a country where English is the primary language.

Additional Program Information

Our graduate program is interdisciplinary, welcoming students from varied academic backgrounds. Some students may be required to take Neuroscience 9000: Fundamentals of Neuroscience, especially if they lack training in biological sciences. This course provides foundational knowledge and graduate-level skills, with a focus on sensory systems and cellular/molecular neuroscience. It does not count toward degree credits but prepares students for the required Neuroscience 9500 course.

Applicants required to take Neuroscience 9000 will be notified in their admission offer letter, following consultation with potential supervisors and review by the Program Committee.