The Application Process
By each given deadline, each school will want to have a completed file from you, containing all the information required in order to consider your application.
Deadlines
While considering graduate school, be aware of application deadlines. For fall admission at most graduate schools, applications are due in January or February, some are even earlier. Start thinking about graduate school and taking some first steps before the end of your junior year.
The Application Form
An application packet must be individually requested from the graduate division of each school you are considering. Read the instructions carefully and fill out the form completely and neatly. In addition, more and more programs are requesting that you apply electronically on-line. Some departments have additional departmental forms, so, when requesting an application packet, specify the program in which you are interested.
Personal Statement
Often the graduate school application requests a personal statement. This should be a concise, well-written essay which demonstrates your ability to organize and present ideas clearly. Your statement of purpose should reflect your background, qualifications, and goals.
Tests/Exams
Most graduate programs require scores from standardized admission tests. Below are common tests. Read the requirements for admission carefully so that all of the necessary tests/exams are taken and submitted.
|
If you are applying to... |
You Should Take... |
|---|---|
|
Graduate School (Most programs) |
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) |
|
Law School |
Law School Admission Test (LSAT) |
|
Business School |
Graduate Management Test (GMAT) |
|
Medical or Podiatry School |
Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) |
|
Dental School |
Dental Aptitude Test (DAT) |
|
Veterinary School |
Veterinary Aptitude Test (VAT) |
|
Optometry School |
Optometry College Admission Test (OCAT) |
|
Pharmacy |
Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) |
|
Psychology, Education, Social Services |
Miller Analogies Test (MAT) |
Transcripts
It is your responsibility to have an official copy of your transcripts sent to each school to which you are applying. Note that it can take the Admissions and Records office up to 10 business days to have your official transcripts ready.
Letters of Recommendation
Although some institutions no longer require confidential letters of recommendation, many still do. Letters of recommendation should be requested from professors, advisors, employers, or other individuals who are familiar with your work, undergraduate preparation, commitment, motivation, and/or potential. Select people who you have a positive relationship with and who view your work positively.
Financing Graduate School
There are several kinds of financial assistance available for graduate students. These include fellowships, scholarships, teaching and research assistantships, and loans. Some of these are through the school and others are from outside agencies. Financial aid application deadlines are frequently earlier than the general application deadline.
