Final Exam Guide for PhD

At least two terms must elapse and be devoted to research between prelim and finals.

Take after completion of the research and writing of the Ph.D. thesis. This examination (thesis defense) will be publicly announced on the departmental bulletin board and posted on the Department Graduate Oral Exam Calendar. It will consist of a seminar, open to the public, during which the candidate will summarize his or her thesis research. Following the seminar there will be an oral examination to be attended only by the Examining Committee members.

Arrange day, hour and room for final exam at a time convenient for your committee. Schedule room as far in advance as possible. Check web site: http://www.bio.purdue.edu/resources/calendar/index.php for room availability before-emailing. Send an e-mail to calendars@bio.purdue.edu to schedule a room.

Request for appointment of examining committee
Submit a request to take the final examination no later than three (3) weeks prior to date of exam. The request to take the final examination will be submitted on G.S. Form 8 by the Graduate Office. The research director signs the form. Leave the form in 1-120 for approval.

The Graduate School requires a minimum of 4 committee members to be present at the defense.

The report must be in the Graduate office no later than the date set by the Graduate School. These dates vary. Check with the Biology Graduate Office for the specific date each semester.

Departmental Questionnaire
As soon as future plans are firm complete departmental questionnaire Form BIOL-04A, Post M.S./Ph.D. Information, and leave in 1-120. Must be turned in before you leave campus.

Pass final examination
The research director and all Examining Committee members must complete and sign G.S. Form 11 Report of the Final Examination. Leave report of the final exam in 1-120 for approval. The report must be in the Graduate School office no later than the date set by the Graduate School. This is usually the Monday of the last week of classes, but may vary. Check with the Graduate Office for specific date each semester.

Not more than one dissenting vote is acceptable in certifying the candidate to receive the degree.

Prepare thesis
Schedule appointment with Grad Coordinator for Thesis/Dissertation Format approval. A pdf copy of the Thesis is required.

The Head of the Department, or Associate Head of the Department in the absence of the Head, signs the G.S. Form 9, Thesis Acceptance Page.

The thesis must be deposited no later than the date set by the Graduate School. This is usually the Friday of the last week of classes, but may very. Check with the Graduate Office for specific date each semester.