Time Table

Applying to graduate school can be a long and time consuming process. It is important to begin early in deciding whether or not you want to go and where you would like to apply. A timetable should help you in this process. All times indicated below are approximate. You will need to study deadlines for specific programs you are considering since they may vary significantly from institution to institution.

Junior Year

• Call or write to schools to request catalogues.
• Begin reviewing guides to graduate programs and deciding where you would like to apply.
• Try to visit graduate schools and talk with professors and graduate students in your field of study.
• Determine the test requirements, application deadlines, test dates, etc.
• Meet with faculty members and career counselors to discuss programs.
• Sign up for required standardized tests. Take practice tests to determine if you may need to consider Kaplan or other prep courses.

Senior Year

September/October

• Take standardized tests.
• Write draft of statement of purpose.
• Research financial aid sources, fellowships and assistantships.
• Meet with career counselors for information on tests, financial assistance and for a critique of your statement of purpose.
• Request recommendations from faculty members.

November/December

• Order official transcripts from registrar's office. Ask if the registrar can send a transcript with your fall term grades in time to meet the deadlines of the graduate program.
• Finalize statement of purpose according to the question asked on the application
• Mail the applications. Even if deadlines are later, it is good to get applications in early.
• Apply for fellowships, grants and assistantships.

January/March

• Contact schools about the possibility of visiting and scheduling an interview