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Program FAQs
Do OxCam Scholars get a PhD from the NIH?
No. The doctoral degree is awarded by the UK university the student selects. If the student selects the University of Cambridge, he/she will receive a PhD. If the student selects the University of Oxford, he/she will receive a DPhil.
What is a DPhil?
A DPhil is a Doctor of Philosophy. This term is used for the doctoral degree earned at the University of Oxford.
How long does it take to complete the program?
On average, OxCam Scholars are able to complete the degree requirements in a little over 4 years. Each student divides the time evenly between the two laboratories, with approximately two years at the NIH and two years in the UK. The OxCam Program does not dictate the student's location. OxCam Scholars determine how they will split the time between the NIH and UK based upon the needs of the research project. Typically, Scholars plan how to split their time in the program (i.e. NIH vs.
Are standardized test scores required for the application?
GRE scores are not required.
MCAT scores are mandatory for students applying for Track 1 of the NIH MD/PhD Program.
Are there cut-offs on GPA and standardized test scores?
No. The NIH OxCam Program does not require a minimum GPA and/or test score for admission. However, students must meet the admissions criteria set by the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge as well as the departmental acceptance requirements.
What classes do I have to take?
The NIH OxCam Program does not have a defined curriculum. Outside of administrative and safety trainings for your NIH laboratory, the only classes you will take will be by your choice or your mentor's suggestion for the development of your research and scientific goals.
How does the interview process work?
Applicants selected to interview will be notified by late-January. Interviews are a three-day event in February at the NIH in Bethesda, MD. Each applicant will have a 30-minute panel interview with NIH Investigators and faculty from Oxford and Cambridge. Candidates are strongly encouraged to use any free time to schedule meetings with potential mentors at the NIH.
Where will I stay during interviews?
The OxCam Program will arrange your travel and accommodations to attend interviews.
International travel (i.e. students studying or working abroad at the time of interviews) will be considered on a case-by-case basis when funding is available.
How do I select my mentors?
The OxCam Program enables individualized doctoral training. OxCam Scholars may work with any NIH Intramural Investigator in any research area and in any Institute, as long as the PI is willing to host the students in his/her laboratory. At present, there are approximately 1200 Investigators in the Intramural Program. Therefore, OxCam Scholars can pursue any type of research he/she desires.
How do I choose my project?
Students may create a unique project tailored to his/her desired research interests. Alternatively, students may select one on the prearranged projects listed on the Research Opportunities webpage.
For more information, please visit the Training Plan webpage, which provide more details about mentor and project selection.
How related is my work at the NIH and my work at my university in the UK?
They aren't just related, they should be two parts of a whole. In the NIH OxCam Program, you are working with two mentors at two institutes on a single project. The work that you do in each lab should contribute to your final thesis.
Are there Master's degree options for the NIH OxCam Program?
No. The NIH OxCam Program is a doctoral training program.
How much does the program cost?
Your tuition and fees will be paid by the program. Your stipend, medical benefits, and travel allowance are funded by your NIH mentor. There are external scholarships available, such as the Gates-Cambridge, Marshall and Rhodes Fellowships. Students are encouraged to apply. For more details, visit our page on external scholarships.
Do I have to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to apply?
Yes, at this time it is required that any applicant be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
What is a Demo?
This is a demo!
Who pays the student's stipend/tuition? If me, how much is it per year?
STIPEND: Stipend levels are set by NIH and are based on the students level of experience. The typical range is $30-35K, plus health insurance costs which add another $3500 or so. I would estimate about $40K although for a students health care, stipend, visa and travel cost per year.
TUITION: Tuition is paid centrally by the SD.. In some ICs the SD will bill the PI for this cost.
Where will I live?
There are several housing options while you are in the U.S., including On-Campus Housing at the NIH in Bethesda, and you can learn more about other options here. When you are at your university you will live in the college you join or you can explore other off-campus options.