Applying to Graduate School

 

When to Apply:
Review the Graduate School Timeline. Find out the application deadlines for all graduate schools you are applying to, and allow plenty of time to prepare for the deadlines. Fall Semester admission deadlines typically range from December to February.

Apply as early as possible - the best time is the fall of the year before you plan to attend. Apply to more than one school to increase your chance of admission. Aim high, but apply to at least one school you are sure will accept you. Tips for increasing your chance of admission.

 

Portfolio:
Although schools probably won’t ask for a portfolio, you should develop one if you have not already done so. Your portfolio should include samples of your academic and professional work. It will allow you to represent your strengths and skills in an interview.

Depending on your program, admissions committees may ask for a sample of your work, and if you have a portfolio, you'll have immediate access to a variety of examples. Also, having a portfolio together can remind you of your accomplishments as you fill out applications.

 

Letters of Recommendation:
Graduate schools will require letters of recommendation from past employers or university faculty. Choose recommenders who can accurately assess your abilities in relation to the graduate program you plan to pursue. Be considerate and give your recommenders a generous amount of time to write a recommendation and return it. Letters of recommendation can be filed using Interfolio, or sent directly.

 

Personal Statement:
Graduate school applications usually require a personal statement in which you describe yourself, your goals, and the reasons why you want to continue your studies in a particular program at that school. For assistance in writing personal statements, see "The Graduate School Application Personal Statement."

 

Reference Books in the Career Development Center:

  • Game Plan For Getting Into Graduate School. 2000. Marion Castellucci. Peterson’s, NY.
  • How to Get a PhD. 2001. E. Phillips & D. Pugh. Open University Press, London, UK.