Next steps in applying to graduate school
Do you remember what it was like applying to college? Chances are you did a little research, discussed it with family or friends or maybe a school guidance counselor, filled out the applications and were on your way. Applying to graduate school requires a lot more work; be prepared to spend both time and money. Application fees can be up to $100; the GRE, other required tests and official transcripts also cost money. Some schools do offer reduced application fees if you qualify; check the admissions websites for guidelines.
The worst thing you can do when applying is procrastinate. Below is a suggested timeline for stress-free application to graduate school beginning one year before the time you want to start a program:
August
- Send an eemail to the admissions office or departmental secretary at the schools you're interested in. They may be able to put you in contact with a current student so you can ask questions and get first-hand information.
- Request materials from the schools, particularly course catalogues and applications.
- Ask at least two professors and one professional reference to write recommendation letters. People like to have at least a month to write a letter. Asking too far in advance can lead to forgetful behavior on everyone's part.
- Check the GRE website www.gre.org for a schedule of any upcoming tests you might need to take.
September
- Look over the admissions materials to identify the specific items you might need to collect for your application packet such as test scores or writing samples.
- Begin drafting a personal statement. You'll most likely need this for any progam you're applying to. Check with Career Services for advice on what you've got so far.
- Request official transcripts (some grad programs ask for 2 copies from each school you've attended). Have the transcripts sent directly to the schools to which you're applying or have a package of them sent to you so you can include them in your application envelopes.
- Make arrangements to visit schools in which you're interested. Call the admissions office to set up a tour of the campus. It's also a good idea to call the academic department to meet with the program director or faculty members.
October
- Take the GRE or any other required exams. This gives you enough time to take the test again should you wish to improve your scores.
- Have a professor or professional in your anticipated field look over a draft of your personal statement. If a program requests a writing sample, start deciding what piece of work you'd like to submit. Your writing sample should meet the length and content guidelines indicated in the application. If there are no guidelines, send 5-10 pages of college-level work, clean of professor comments, relevant to the field to which you're applying.
- Follow-up with the professors you've asked to write letters of support. Ask for them to be sent directly to the schools to which you're applying or have a package of them sent to you so you can include them in your application envelopes.
- Bring your resume to Career Services. Whether you are a current student or an alumna, we can help you create a great resume that can be included in your grad school application packets.
November
- Complete all paper and online applications and the final draft of your personal statement.
- Mail packets including all required elements. Some schools require two application packets - one to the graduate studies office and one to the department office. Be sure you send the required elements to the right personnel.
April
- You should begin to hear from progams during the month of March, depending on the application due date. If you have still not heard from a program by April, e-mail the admissions office to make sure they have received everything they need to complete your application.
- If you are rejected from a school and plan to reapply the following year, there's nothing wrong with contacting them and asking why you were denied admission. Sometimes they will send you a detailed reply so you know how you can improve your application the following year.
Information compiled from http://www.barnard.edu/ocd/factsheets/grad_school.htm