Tips on applying to graduate school

Black Collegian, Oct 1995 by Copeland, Elaine S, Alvarado, Ave M

It is wise to take the GRE even if it is not required by your program. Your scores may be evaluated during fellowship competitions. Consult your department of interest to find out whether standardized tests are required. If the GRE is required, find out whether some departments require both the general and the subject test.

Transcripts of All College-Level Academic Work

While the last 60 hours of your undergraduate work is that which is most heavily weighted in the selection process, your complete academic record must be sent to each institution to which you are applying. If you have completed coursework at institutions other than the one in which you graduated, and the grades from that course-work do not appear on your current transcript you should make certain that official copies of transcripts from the other schools are forwarded, as well. Make certain that you know the required grade point average (G.P.A.) for the programs to which you are applying. Unless special concessions are made for you, you should meet the required G.P.A. before applying to a particular program. Some programs may require additional information; for example, a Department of English may require a writing sample and a portfolio may be needed for programs in architecture. You should make certain that you are aware of all of the documents and information you must submit and that you submit them timely.

Time Line for Graduate School

The Sophomore Year

* Begin exploring graduate school options.

* Develop a close rapport with faculty in your major and discuss your interest with faculty and graduate students.

* Select up to five institutions that have programs of interest to you.

* Begin to participate in activities that will enhance your chances of being admitted to a program.

* Participate in a summer research experience if you can.

* Volunteer to participate in research projects. or if a professor is conducting research in an area of interest to you, ask to enroll in an independent study course that would allow you to earn credit while participating in the research.

The Junior Year

* Choose the graduate institutions you would like to attend.

* Begin to collect information about the graduate programs and the institutions you would like to attend given your personal and career objectives.

* Request applications and information on available financial aid from each of the institutions.

* Request information on fellowship programs that will support students in your field

* Prepare for and take the GRE. If the GRE is required for your program, you should take it by October of your senior year.

The Senior Year

The First Semester

* Prepare and submit applications early. The application should be typed, complete, and neat. Make certain that you follow the instructions carefully, to include all requested information. Keep in mind that application deadlines vary from one institution to another. Therefore. be prepared to meet the application deadline for each institution.

* Request financial support (both fellowships and assistantships). Often, the admission application is also used to request financial support. Be sure to find out if you need to submit a separate form for financial aid.