Welcome to the Microbiology and Immunology PhD Program!
We’re thrilled that you’re considering joining our diverse and vibrant academic community. As an international student, your unique global perspective enhances our research and learning environment. Our program offers rigorous scientific training, collaborative mentorship, and opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research. Outside the lab, you’ll discover a supportive campus culture and a wide range of resources to help you succeed academically, professionally, and personally.
Getting Started with Your Application
Applying to our PhD program as an international student is a straightforward process, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our website provides comprehensive guidance on application requirements and deadlines which can be found here.
Obtaining a F-1 Visa
Once you are admitted to the Microbiology and Immunology PhD Program, you will work to submit key documents to the University of Utah Admissions office. After they receive the required documents, they will issue your form I-20, which you will use to apply for an F-1 student visa. Please note that the F-1 process can take anywhere from 3-6 months. The time it takes to obtain an F-1 visa can vary depending on the availability of embassy appointments.
Please visit the Admissions website for more information on obtaining an F-1 visa and deadlines.
F-1 Visa overview
• Get admitted into the Microbiology and Immunology PhD Program
• Request I 20 through University of Utah (after admission and financial verification), which includes proof of funding and supporting documents.
• Pay non-refundable SEVIS I 901 fee
• Complete DS 160 visa application, schedule a U.S. embassy/consulate interview
• Attend orientation at University of Utah (mandatory for F 1 students)
Employment
We’re excited to welcome you to our department as a Graduate Research Assistant. As you prepare to begin your employment, there are several important steps to complete to ensure a smooth onboarding process. Below is an overview of the required hiring steps.
A designated HR Liaison from our department will contact you to guide you through each step of the process.
Hiring Steps:
• Complete a criminal background check (required for all staff positions)
• Complete the New Employee Information Sheet
• Sign the CISA – Confidentiality and Information Security Agreement (Health Academics only)
• Sign the EIPAA – Employee Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement (for non-benefitted and student employees)
• Verify if you have obtained a social security card. Additional steps to obtain a social security card can be found here
• New hire paperwork will be submitted by the Department on your behalf
• Complete the Remote I-9 employment verification process
On campus employment requirements can be found here
Student Support & Ongoing Resources
- International Student and Scholar Services office (ISSS)
The International Student & Scholar Services team offers resources for visa advising, housing, health insurance, and adjusting to life in the U.S. We encourage you to explore these resources.
The ISSS team can be reached at international@utah.edu or by phone at 801-581-8876 Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. - English Language Support
The University of Utah offers multiple opportunities for English language support to assist international students and their dependents with their academic English language skills. - University writing center
The University Writing Center (UWC) is here to help you become a more confident writer by providing individual consultations with peer tutors. UWC exists to be your writing resource from your freshman classes through graduate school. They are available to help you with papers from all disciplines - not just writing classes. Best of all, the Writing Center is a FREE service to students at the University of Utah. They can help you develop strategies to make you a better writer and help you to see your potential as an academic author.
The UWC welcomes all currently-enrolled University of Utah students and offers free, one-to-one consultations in person and online. - English for Academic Success (EAS) Graduate Programs
University of Utah's EAS offers various classes, workshops and tutoring to help international graduate students to improve their academic English skills. - Study in the USA Guide
For general information on studying and life in the US see the Study in the USA Guide published by International Student.
Useful tips prior to your arrival
Bring copies of other important documents (medical, immunization records and prescriptions, school records, home country driver's license and car insurance) along with your immigration documents.