2. I heard that other students in the Cell/Mol track had to do an Area Proposal. Do I need to do that?
Students admitted to our PhD program Autumn 2005-06 or later do not have to do an Area Proposal. Please refer to your PhD Student Handbook for your cohort information.
3. When are the various department forms due?
Information about department forms and their corresponding deadlines is available on this website.
4. How do I find out how I am being paid?
Before each academic year begins, you will receive a letter of financial support from the Student Services Office that will explain if you are getting paid stipend or salary, and when to expect your checks.
5. What is the difference between being paid stipend versus salary?
Students being paid stipend will receive their stipend check at the beginning of each quarter. Taxes will NOT be removed from your stipend check, so you will need to plan for that. Students being paid salary will receive a bi-weekly paycheck on the 7th and 22nd of each month. Taxes WILL be removed from your salary check before you receive money.
6. Is there a way to get my University bill automatically paid with my stipend or salary?
Yes! If you are being paid stipend, all of your quarterly fees on the University Bill (with the exception of your cable bill) will be paid before you receive your check. If you are being paid salary, you must set up payroll deductions for this to happen. You can sign up for Payroll Deductions on Axess.
7. How many units can I enroll in?
PhD students in our department are required to enroll in exactly 10 units each quarter - this is also the maximum units that the department will pay for in terms of tuition. If you wish to enroll in more than 10 units, you will be responsible for the tuition associated with each additional unit.
8. What quarters do I need to enroll in classes?
PhD students in our department are required to enroll in classes all four quarters - this includes summer quarter.
9. Will I get an MS degree while working on my PhD?
The department does not typically award an MS degree to students working on their PhD. However, if a student chooses to leave the PhD program, he/she may have the option to graduate with an MS degree provided they meet the requirements for the MS degree.
10. I'm a PhD student in another department. Can I apply to get an MS in Biology?
The department will accept MS applications from PhD students in other departments at Stanford. To apply, you will need to submit all of the application materials required for the Coterminal MS program. Please contact Student Services with any questions.
