Graduate school is a great way to conduct meaningful research, develop specialized skills, qualify for licensure, and more! Graduate school is also not something to take lightly. It’s a major investment—personally, intellectually, socially, emotionally, and financially. This means that deciding to apply to and attend graduate school requires extensive research and preparation. Be sure to give yourself enough time to do your due diligence and get all the information you want and need. The more time you allow yourself to research programs, prepare for any standardized tests, write personal statements, and submit applications, the better!
Build a School Inventory
Create an Excel spreadsheet to serve as your application database. Visit each school’s admissions website and record the following for every program
- Application deadlines
- Required application materials
- Number of letters of recommendation needed
- Any prerequisites needed prior to enrollment
- Standardized test requirements
- Any additional information you’ll need to decide whether you’re interested in the school (e.g., housing, scholarships, assistantships)
Standardized Test Preparation
Some schools require standardized tests, such as the GRE. Begin exploring test dates and registration on the ETS GRE website.
Paid resources such as Kaplan, Magoosh, and The Princeton Review are available to help you study.
Suggested timeline — Previous students recommend studying for 1–3 months prior to your test date.
Recommendations
Reach out to professors to formally ask if they would be willing to serve as a letter of reference for your school applications (send them your most updated resume so they can use that to help them write).
Personal Statement Draft
Write personal statement, drafts for schools should schools require additional writing essays
Finalize Materials
By Spring Break 2027 you will have finalized plans, and can begin to explore housing options and life at graduate school of choice!
