How to Apply to Graduate School

• Prepare
• Gather Application Materials
• Elements of an Application
  
  

Prepare

Plan ahead. Graduate schools often require that you have taken specific undergraduate courses. Be aware of this. Almost all require standardized tests results (GRE General and- less often- Subject), which can be taken as early as junior year. Check the deadlines for the programs you are considering. Be sure to find out when your scores need to be submitted and plan accordingly. It can take several weeks for your test to be scored and the results sent to you and/or graduate/professional schools, particularly in the case of Subject tests, or of General tests taken overseas.

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Gather Application Materials

While on-line applications are quite common, some graduate schools still require you to apply directly to them in hard copy. Assembling all of the materials required to support your application takes time and organization and you should allow a minimum of one month just to assemble what you will need. Keep a written record of each aspect of the application process you need to complete for every school, paying special attention to deadlines. Whenever possible, send your materials in well ahead of any deadlines. Early decisions and rolling admissions policies are commonplace, even if not stated.

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Elements of an Application

There are five major elements considered in an application:

1. Personal Statement:This is critically important. You must articulate your preparation, motivation, and goals. The prime aspects to cover are:
   • Your background preparation
   • Why you want to pursue this particular degree and how it fits into your career plans
   • Why now
   • Why you have selected this particular institution (be specific!)
   • Where you see this taking you in the long term


2. Grade Point Average: Obviously, this needs to be as high as possible. If you have had a particular problem which has impacted your grades, you may wish to make brief reference in your statement. If you do so, explain the matter- do not whine!



3. Transcript: Institutions want to know how good your preparation in the field is and that you have taken a variety of challenging courses. Most schools require official transcripts -- sent directly from the registrar (i.e., NOT the academic record which your residential dean can provide). Make your requests early.



4. References: You will typically need three academic references- people who can write about your skills as a student. In rare cases, you may include an employer or supervisor if you have had work experience in a directly related field.



5. Standardized Test Scores: Again, you want to do as well as possible. Most graduate schools require the GRE General test, though far fewer require Subject tests -- check each department's requirements as these vary greatly. This element produces more anxiety among students than any other aspect of the process. The best advice is PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE! A variety of study guides containing old tests are available in most bookstores and on-line. Remember, however, that it is the total package of information that is being reviewed, not one element. Take standardized tests seriously and prepare thoroughly, but make sure the other elements in your application package receive equal attention -- especially your personal statement.

TIP: Get your materials in EARLY. Make copies of everything.

Your faculty, DUS, dean, and the counselors in UCS are all here to help you with every step of the process. Take advantage of them! In particular, make sure they read your personal statement and give you constructive feedback -- it is hard to overemphasize the importance of a well-crafted statement.

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