About
Established in 1924, Scripps Research University is a nonprofit biomedical research institute located in San Diego, California. It is one of the largest private, non-profit biomedical research organizations in the United States and among the largest in the world. The institute has over 170 laboratories employing 2,100 scientists, technicians, graduate students, and administrative and other staff.
What is the acceptance rate of Scripps Research Institute?
Scripps Research University has an enrollment of 1,000+ students, an acceptance rate of 22%, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 1:2.
Scripps Research is also home to the Scripps Research Translational Institute (TSRI), which is a partnership between Scripps Research and the University of California, San Diego. The TSRI is dedicated to translating basic scientific discoveries into new treatments for human diseases. The average annual tuition fee for international students at Scripps Research University is nearly $1,363.
Scripps Research is a highly respected institution that has made significant contributions to the biomedical sciences. The institute's scientists have won numerous awards, including Nobel Prizes, for their work. Scripps Research is also a major contributor to the San Diego economy, generating billions of dollars in economic activity each year. Scripps Research University is ranked #83 in the QS WUR Ranking By Subject 2023.
Top Reasons to Study in the Scripps Research Institute
- World-renowned research: Scripps Research University is one of the leading research universities in the world. Its faculty has won numerous Nobel Prizes, and its research has had a major impact on the fields of biology, chemistry, and medicine.
- Interdisciplinary education: Scripps Research University allows students to explore the connections between different fields of science, preparing them for careers in research, industry, and academia.
- Small class sizes: Scripps Research University has small class sizes, allowing them to know their professors and classmates well. This makes it easier to get help and support, and it also creates a close-knit community.
- Excellent location: Scripps Research University is located in La Jolla, California, a beautiful coastal city with a mild climate. The university is also close to San Diego, a major metropolitan area with many cultural and recreational opportunities.
Admissions
How to Apply at Scripps Research Institute
UNDERGRADUATE
Here are the steps on how to apply to Scripps Research University for undergraduate studies as an international applicant:
- Visit the Scripps Research University website and click on the "Apply" tab.
- Create an account and complete the online application form.
- Submit your transcripts from your secondary school or college.
- Take the SAT or ACT and submit your scores.
POSTGRADUATE
Here are the steps on how to apply to Scripps Research University for postgraduate studies as an international applicant:
- Visit the Scripps Research University website and click on the "Apply" tab.
- Create an account and complete the online application form.
- Submit your transcripts from all previous institutions.
- Take the GRE and submit your scores.
- Submit your English proficiency test scores.
- Write a statement of purpose or research statement.
- Submit three letters of recommendation from teachers or other academic references.
MASTER'S AND PhD
Here are the steps on how to apply to Scripps Research University for a master's or PhD as an international applicant:
- Visit the Scripps Research University website and click on the "Apply" tab.
- Create an account and complete the online application form.
- Submit your transcripts from all previous institutions.
- Take the GRE and submit your scores.
- Submit your English proficiency test scores.
- Write a statement of purpose or research statement.
- Submit three letters of recommendation from teachers or other academic references.
Documents Required to Apply to Scripps Research Institute
UNDERGRADUATE
Documents needed to apply to the Scripps Research University as an international undergraduate applicant are:
- Completed Online Application.
- Official Transcripts.
- English Proficiency Test Scores.
- SAT/ACT Scores.
- No Application Fee.
POSTGRADUATE
Documents needed to apply to the Scripps Research University as an international graduate applicant are:
- Completed Online Application.
- Official Transcripts.
- English Proficiency Test Scores.
- GRE Scores.
- Letters of Recommendation.
- Research Statement.
- No Application Fee.
MASTER'S AND PhD
Documents needed to apply to the Scripps Research University as an international master's or PhD applicant are:
- Completed Online Application.
- Official Transcripts.
- English Proficiency Test Scores.
- GRE Scores.
- Letters of Recommendation.
- Research Statement.
- No Application Fee.
Exams Accepted By Scripps Research Institute
Scripps Research University accepts the following standardised exams from international students:
- TOEFL
- IELTS
- GRE
- GMAT
- SAT
Campus Life
Transportation in the city
The primary public transportation providers in San Diego are:
- The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates buses, trolleys, and a light rail system. The trolley is the most popular option for getting around downtown San Diego.
- The North County Transit District (NCTD) operates buses and trains in northern San Diego County.
- The San Diego Trolley is a light rail system running through downtown San Diego and out to several different neighbourhoods. It is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
- The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is a train service between San Diego and Los Angeles. It is an excellent option if you are travelling between the two cities and want to enjoy the scenery.
- Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are popular options for getting around San Diego, especially when with a group or luggage.
- Biking is a great way to get around San Diego if you are in good shape and do not mind the heat. There are many bike lanes and paths in the city.
Services offered by the university
- Public Engagement: Scripps Research University is committed to engaging the public in science, by offering programs and events that promote scientific literacy and understanding.
- Core Facilities: Scripps Research University has several core facilities that provide state-of-the-art instrumentation and expertise to support research, including a molecular biology core, a mass spectrometry core, and an imaging core.
- Library: The Scripps Research University Library is a comprehensive research library that supports the institute's research mission, providing access to books, journals, and databases.
- Computing and Networking: Scripps Research University provides its researchers with access to state-of-the-art computing and networking resources, allowing them to share data, collaborate on projects, and conduct simulations.
- Administrative Services: Scripps Research University provides a variety of administrative services which include human resources, finance, and facilities management.
Student life at Scripps Research Institute
- World-class research facilities: Scripps Research University is home to some of the most advanced research facilities in the world. Students have access to state-of-the-art equipment and technologies, which allows them to conduct cutting-edge research.
- Recreational activities: Scripps Research University offers many recreational activities for students, such as a gym, swimming pool, tennis courts, and basketball courts. There are also many clubs and organizations on campus that students can join, such as the hiking club, the surfing club, and the volleyball club.
- Collaborative and supportive environment: Scripps Research University students are encouraged to work together and help each other succeed. There are many opportunities for students to get involved in research, teaching, and outreach.
- Diverse student body: Scripps Research University has a diverse student body from all over the world, allowing students to learn from each other and grow as individuals.
- Beautiful location: Scripps Research University is located in La Jolla, California, a beautiful beachside community with a lot to offer students. There are plenty of opportunities for students to enjoy the outdoors, go hiking, surfing, or simply relax on the beach.
On campus accomodation at Scripps Research Institute
Scripps Research University does not offer on-campus accommodation for students.
Faculty
University Faculty:Student Ratio
University Faculty Stats
- There are 173 faculty members, including 11 Nobel laureates, 22 members of the National Academy of Sciences, and 23 members of the National Academy of Medicine.
- Student-to-faculty ratio of 1:2.
- The faculty members conduct research in a wide range of areas, including chemistry, biology, medicine, immunology, and neuroscience.
- The faculty members have published over 100,000 scientific papers and have received over $1 billion in research funding.
- The faculty members have founded over 80 companies based on their research.
Career Opportunities
Internship opportunities at Scripps Research Institute
Scripps Research University offers varied internship and part-time job opportunities for students, graduates, and professionals. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows (SURF) Program: This 10-week program offers students the opportunity to conduct independent research in one of Scripps Research's 150+ laboratories. Students are matched with a faculty mentor and receive a stipend of $6,250.
- Student Research Internship Program: This program is offered by the Scripps Research Translational Institute (SRTI) and is open to high school, undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. Interns work on research projects in the areas of genomics, bioinformatics, digital medicine, and community engagement.
- Clinical Research Assistant: This position provides support to clinical research teams in areas, including data collection, patient recruitment, and study coordination. They must have a bachelor's degree in a related field and experience with clinical research.
- Research Assistant: This position provides support to research scientists in several areas, such as cell culture, molecular biology, and biochemistry. They must have a bachelor's degree in a related field and experience with laboratory techniques.
- Writer/Editor: This position is responsible for writing and editing scientific content, such as research papers, grant proposals, and marketing materials. They must have strong writing and editing skills and experience with scientific writing.
Placement of Scripps Research Institute
Placement: Scripps Research University graduates have a high rate of job placement after graduation. According to the university's website, 93% of graduates were employed within six months of graduation.
Hiring Companies: Some of the top employers for Scripps Research University graduates:
- Amgen
- Genentech
- Johnson & Johnson
- Pfizer
- Merck
- Roche
- Illumina
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals
- Gilead Sciences
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company
- Bristol Myers Squibb
Salaries: The average salary for Scripps Research University graduates is $100,000. However, salaries can vary depending on the field of study, the employer, and the level of experience.
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Last updated August 14, 2026