FAQs

How much does the program cost?

All students receive financial support which covers tuition and fees and which provides a stipend to cover living expenses.

Is there a service commitment or bond associated with the fellowships?

Admitted students are offered a Duke-NUS scholarship that pays a minimum stipend of $3100/month and has no service obligation. However, students may be nominated for more prestigious and higher paying scholarship programs, which differ in their service requirements.

Can I do my thesis with individuals at another institution?

To become a mentor in the IBM graduate program, individuals must be a regular rank member of the Duke-NUS faculty and fulfill a distinct set of additional criteria. The current list of approved IBM faculty mentors can be found here.

How many specialty courses will I take?

The number of specialty courses required differs between programs. Most programs require about 10 additional credits of coursework. The HSSR program differs slightly, as it will have a heavier emphasis on coursework. Details of the individual program requirements can be found at the following websites: HSSR, NBD, CVMD, EID, and CSCB.

Do I have to take the GREs?

All students must have completed either the GRE or the MCAT (for those in the MD/PhD program).

What type of GRE score or GPA would be considered competitive for entry into the IBM Program at Duke-NUS?

The IBM program is a competitive one aimed to attract excellent students aiming to achieve an elite career in research. Our recent classes had average GRE scores in the 1300+ range and graduated with upper second class honors or above. However, we evaluate a number of other criteria including research experience, letters of recommendation, and individual essays when evaluating potential candidates. We don't have firm minimum scores, and excellence in other areas can offset slight deficiencies.

Will I be able to see patients when I am done?

No, this is a research based degree, and does not provide clinical training. Duke-NUS does offer an MD program for clinical training.

I have an MBBS degree. Am I eligible to apply?If I have an MBBS, do I still have to take the GREs?

Students with a MBBS degree are encouraged to apply to our PhD program, which is well-suited to provide training in research to individuals with clinical experience.

I already know I would like to do my thesis with a particular faculty member. Do I still have to do the two laboratory rotations?

Laboratory rotations are an integral part of the training program, and are required.

What is the typical academic calendar like with regards to vacation and exams?

The PhD degree is akin to a full-time job. Students get the same public holidays as other faculty and staff at Duke-NUS. Any additional vacation time is decided upon between the student and his or her thesis mentor, but 3 weeks per year is typical.