Graduate School Timeline

One of the initial steps in applying to a graduate or professional school is to research application deadlines so that you can develop a timeline of when to submit test scores, letters of recommendation, personal essays, etc. Below is a timeline to help you in planning your application process:

Junior Year

• Begin researching available programs
  • Talk to faculty/alumni/current students in the program
  • Review grad school guides/directories
  • Request promotional materials
  • Visit school's websites
• Start exploring financial aid resources
• Take a practice test
• Sign up for required standardized test
• Attend Career Services Graduate/Professional School Workshops
• Attend Career Services Graduate/Professional School Day
• 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.

Senior Year-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 school and decline acceptances
• Write thank you notes to people who helped you

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