Application Process

The first step in completing graduate school applications is to gain an overall understanding of the process. The following is a list of components that are generally required for graduate school admission.

Application
Applications will ask for detailed information about your academic history, courses, related experience and goals. Some fields of study require that you use their on-line management system to submit and track all components of your application. Following are samples of those sites:
Law School (www.lsac.org)
Pharmacy School (www.pharmcas.org)
Dental School (www.adea.org)
Veterinarian School (https://portal.vmcas.org)
Medical School (http://www.aamc.org/students/amcas)

Transcripts
You will need to submit an official transcript from each institution you have attended. Transcripts are submitted at the time of your application as well as at the completion of your undergraduate degree. Contact the Registrar's Office from the institutions you have attended to request transcripts.

Standardized Tests
Most graduate schools require a standardized test (GRE, LSAT, MCAT, GMAT, etc.). You will need to request that your scores are sent to each graduate school for which you are applying.

Personal Statement
These essays are generally 1-3 pages and summarize your academic experience thus far, your interest in a particular career and education path, and how you would be a good fit for a particular institution.

Recommendations
Most graduate schools will request that 2-4 letters of recommendation are provided from your professors, instructors or supervisors.

Writing Sample
Some graduate schools will require that you submit a writing sample of significant length that demonstrates your advanced writing skills.

Each program will have different deadlines and requirements so it is important that you develop a personalized time frame and tracking system to organize materials and deadlines. Review Gearing Up for Graduate School for a general guide on the application time frame.