Junior Year
- Begin researching available programs
- Review grad school guides/directories
- Request promotional materialsVisit schools’ websites
- Talk to faculty/alumni/current students in the program
- Start exploring financial aid resources
- Sign up for required standardized test and take a practice test
- Attend Career Center graduate school workshops
- Identify potential letter writers
- Order an unofficial transcript and check for and correct any discrepancies
- Take the required standardized test
Senior Year
Fall Semester
- Write the first draft of your statement of purpose
- Request your letters of recommendation from faculty
- Order official transcripts
- Write final draft of statement of purpose
- Complete and mail your applications
- Apply for aid available through program; assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, etc.
Spring Semester
- Complete and submit financial aid applications
- Visit prospective campuses if possible, and talk to faculty/students to help you make your final decision
- Follow-up with schools to make sure your file is complete
- After receiving acceptance from the school of your choice, send in the required deposit, and contact other schools and decline acceptances
- Write thank you notes to people who helped you