Application Tips

Applying to graduate school requires some careful thought and organization. These tips should help make the process a smooth one.

  1. Seek advice from faculty mentors about suitable programs.
  2. Check the Web sites of programs in your discipline.
    • examine the faculty research pages.
    • determine if there is broad diversity in the program and adequate overlap with your research interests.
  3. Determine which programs suit your aims/expectations. Select 3 - 8 programs.
  4. Check deadlines and requirements. Don't delay. Budget your time to compile the following items:
    • transcripts
    • GRE tests
    • letters of recommendation
    • electronic application? (Often replaces a paper application)
    • personal statement/essay
  5. Contact faculty for letters of recommendation. This is often viewed as the most important aspect of the application. Don't delay in requesting letters.
    • provide updated resume to the faculty who will write the letters
    • provide reference forms and address labels
    • fill in the reference form information blocks
    • letters from science-related faculty (or employers) are the most important, not ones from English professors, soccer coaches, and dorm advisers.
    • commentary about your research performance, whether in an academic lab or in an industrial position, is critical.
  6. Personal statement/essay:
    • discuss past research experience and future goals.
    • focus on technical talents and science, not arts, crafts, personal issues, and hobbies.
    • address blemishes on academic records in a direct and factual manner.
    • try to refine the letter for each program.
  7. GRE scores:
    • many graduate recruiters view the GRE scores as the least important predictor of success in graduate school.
    • many programs don't require the advanced subject exams.
    • typically the verbal and quantitative scores are evaluated.

Is Graduate School the Right Path for You?

Graduate School may be the right path for you IF:

  • you have an unwavering interest in research
  • you have extensive past experience with research: you know the highs, the lows, the successes, and the frustrations that go along with research
  • you are self-motivated and self-disciplined. Graduate school typically brings a fair amount of freedom and independence. Slackers will perish.
  • you know how to manage your time. You need to set and stick to a schedule, you need to approach tasks efficiently, and you must be aware that research rarely follows a 9-to-5 schedule.
  • you already have or are willing to develop good communication and writing skills.
  • you know what areas of scientific research interest you. Graduate school is not the place to wander; it is the place to wonder.
  • you can explain why an advanced degree is necessary for your career path.

Typical Time-line

  • April - October (of year preceding entrance to graduate school): consult faculty mentors, visit Web sites of graduate programs, take GRE exams
  • October - December: request letters of recommendation, write personal statement/essay, arrange for transcripts to be sent
  • January/early February: deadlines for most graduate programs
  • February/March: acceptances/rejections are issued from graduate programs
  • February/March: visit programs
  • April 15: decision day!