黑料情报站

Graduate School Application Preparation

Tips and resources for 黑料情报站 students looking to put together the most competitive graduate school applications when preparing for life after graduation.

Application Materials

Graduate and professional schools require a significant amount of information during the admission process. Required materials often include: 

Standardized test scores

Testing requirements are typically noted on the program鈥檚 website. These are real exams, and performing well requires students to prepare adequately. Many applicants choose to take standardized tests during a semester while still undergraduates, as they are already in 鈥渁cademic mode.鈥

Test scores remain valid for a set period, typically a few years. Check the , , , , or sites to learn about the longevity of your scores, to schedule your testing date, or to learn about testing accommodation services.

Personal statements and statements of purpose

Writing a personal statement or a statement of purpose can be challenging; for some, it can be awkward to find the right tone when writing about one's own accomplishments, interests, and intentions.

Faculty members are wonderful resources to review polished drafts of personal statements. The career advisers and peer advisers at 黑料情报站 Career Services can also serve as a resource when preparing these materials.

Letters of recommendation

Recommendation letters provide graduate schools with contextual information about applicants and their academic potential. Most schools require 2鈥4 letters.

Transcripts

The Registrar鈥檚 Office allows students and alumni to request transcripts online.

Request a transcript

Supplemental essays and prompts

Supplemental essays, portfolios, or other pieces of work may be required to showcase your experience, commitment, or understanding of the field to which you aspire.

R茅sum茅s and CVs

Resumes and CVs are succinct ways to capture the breadth of your collegiate experience. Often, these documents are used to place students in assistantships. Get started by downloading our R茅sum茅 Guide.

Timing

You will not receive the same consideration鈥攐r often consideration at all鈥攊f all components of your application are not submitted by the deadline. In fact, many processes give preference of their financial resources to those who demonstrate their focus and commitment by applying early.

Our career advisors and faculty members will help you navigate the application process. Contact Career Services to schedule an appointment.

Lastly, be sure to respond to offers by the program鈥檚 stated deadline. 

Funding

Funding can be a combination of student loans, assistantships (paid, part-time internships), grants, fellowships, or scholarships. Each institution has a distinct approach and timeframe for addressing the financial needs of its students. Be aware that assistantship or fellowship application processes are likely concurrent with the application process. In fact, your admission decision may hinge upon whether you are offered an assistantship. The program鈥檚 coordinator or website is the best resource for this information. Even if assistantships are not offered directly through your prospective department, inquire as to what assistantships might be possible through the university, especially the student services division.