Application Timetable
You should begin in the summer before your senior year of college or at least a year before you plan to start graduate school. Study deadlines for specific programs carefully since they may vary significantly depending on the institution to which you apply. Financial aid deadlines may be earlier than admissions.
Summer/Early Fall
- Start browsing through guides to graduate programs and college catalogs
- Meet with faculty members to discuss personal statement and possible programs
- Start writing a rough draft of your personal statement
- Sign up for standardized tests if required by your desired program
- Visit schools; meet with faculty and graduate students in programs
Fall
- Take required standardized tests
- Request application materials from programs
- Ask for letters of recommendation (i.e. faculty, advisors, supervisors, mentors)
- Order transcripts
- Research financial aid; complete applications for sources with early deadlines
- Finalize your personal statement
Early Winter
- Complete application and financial aid forms
- Give recommenders forms to fill out (if provided) or addresses to send letters to
- Mail applications; watch deadlines for admissions and financial aid
- Contact programs to set up possible interviews
- Follow up by phone to verify all materials have been received
Application Checklist
____ Personal Statement
____ Letters of Recommendation
____ Transcripts
____ Required Standardized Tests
____ Applications for Admission
____ Applications for Financial Aid
____ Applications for Fellowships
____ Income Tax Return (if necessary for financial aid applications)
____ Scheduled Visits or Interviews