Step-by-Step Guide on Applying for Graduate School

Applying to graduate school may seem like an overwhelming experience. However, with the right plan and checklist, it can be much easier.

The requirements for every school and program are different. Therefore, it is important to conduct research and learn what you need before you begin your applications.

In this article, we discuss the main steps you should follow to ensure you successfully apply to the graduate school of your choice.

Table of Contents

1.  Choosing programs to apply to
2.  Planning your application timeline
3. Requesting recommendation letters and transcripts
4. Taking standardized tests
5. Writing your resume
6.  Writing a statement of purpose
7. Writing a personal statement
8. Preparing for interviews

Choosing Programs to Apply to

The first step in applying to graduate schools is deciding which programs to pursue. The best way to do this is to list all the programs you are interested in. Next, find current students and alumni of these programs and determine what you need to know before applying.

Current students and alums help you to find out vital factors such as;

• Do you need a graduate degree?
• The importance of school prestige in the field
• The quality of supervision and teaching
• The probability of you getting into the program
• The cost of joining the program, as well as available financial aid
• The job market after completing this program

These factors help you decide whether this is the right program for you and prepare you for what to expect once you successfully join the program.

Planning Your Application Timeline

When applying to graduate school, it is advisable to start as early as possible. Regardless of the type of program you intend to apply for, you should start making application plans 18 months before the start of your program.

Deadlines differ from program to program. Some have strict deadlines, usually six to nine months before the beginning date. Other programs have rolling deadlines. This means that the earlier you apply, the earlier the school will consider your application. Either way, it’s critical to submit your application before the start date.

For the best results, plan your application timeline. Designate ample time for each step of your application process to allow you to complete and move on to the next. Every step will likely take more time than you expected, leaving a lot of extra time in your timeline.

Requesting Transcripts and Recommendation Letters

Most graduate schools require transcripts of grades and recommendation letters from previous professors and trainers.

         -Transcripts

When applying to graduate schools, transcripts from every post-secondary institution you have attended are mandatory. Whether you studied full or part-time, ensure that you get all the transcripts from these institutions, including schools you studied abroad.

Every graduate program provides language requirements. Therefore, if you are applying to a US or a UK program and your transcripts are not in English, you must translate them. You can seek the help of professional online translators and receive your translated copy within a few days.

      -Recommendation Letters

Recommendation letters are another vital part of graduate applications. You must be careful when choosing who to write these letters for you as they can make or break your application. Ensure that you choose a former professor who you know well outside the classroom and who can speak of your abilities in school.

Taking Standardized Tests

For most American graduate programs, you must take a standardized test before finalizing your application. However, that is different for non-American programs. Some standardized tests include;

•  Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)
• GRE Subject
•  Law School Admissions Test
• Graduate Management Admissions Test
• Medical College Admissions Test

Writing Your Resume

When applying to graduate school, you will most likely have to submit a resume or CV. Most graduate programs have a word/ page limit, which you should adhere to. If there is no limit, ensure your resume is not more than two pages long.

Do not include all the activities you have been involved in; rather, include only the ones relevant to the program you are applying to. If you are applying to a professional program, focus on your professional accomplishments. For other programs, focus more on your academic and research accomplishments.

Writing a Statement of Purpose

A statement of purpose is a short essay that ties together the rest of your application. The aim of this essay is to show the admissions committee why you are a good fit for the program and why you decided to apply.

Your statement of purpose should include your academic and personal background, accomplishments, motivations for applying, and academic goals and career objectives.

Writing a Personal Statement

Although not mandatory for all, some graduate programs require you to include a personal statement in your application. This statement is more formal than a statement of purpose. It’s mostly about your personal background, who you are, and what has led you to apply to the specific school.

Preparing for Interviews

The last step in the application process is the graduate school interview. Although not all schools conduct interviews, it’s essential to be prepared if yours does. Some tips to help you get prepared are;

• Read the school’s website and learn all about it.
• Talk to previous students and find out what to expect during the interviews.
• List commonly asked questions and prepare the answers
• Read and research papers concerning the field you want to venture in

Most interviewers in graduate schools ask the same questions. Therefore, once you discover them, you must ensure you have a clear idea of how to answer them. It’s also advisable to bring along a few of your questions. You can enquire about funding opportunities, available resources, and job opportunities after the program. This will give you a clear view of what to expect and a chance to see whether you fit in.