So, four years of college isn't enough? You're thinking about a graduate degree? Begin planning early-about two years before you intend to attend graduate school. Consider the following tips. To learn more about preparing for graduate school, visit the IUPUI Graduate Office.
Be Familiar with the Application Process
Applying to graduate school is complex and significantly different from applying to undergraduate programs. If you know what to do and what to avoid, you'll have a better chance of gaining admission to your first-choice graduate school.
Prepare for Admissions Tests
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is the entrance exam required by most science graduate programs. Other tests include the MCAT (for medical schools), DAT (for dental schools), LSAT (for law schools) and GMAT (for business schools).
Learn about Graduate Programs
Develop relationships with faculty who teach your undergraduate courses and consult with your advisor. You can attend seminars and conferences, graduate fairs and visit the Career Center. Visit graduate programs and make contact with those faculty who share your research interests.
Write a Strong Personal Statement
Most graduate programs ask applicants to write a personal statement or the statement of purpose. In your statement, you should:
- Demonstrate knowledge in your intended field of study
- Articulate how a graduate degree will prepare you to meet your career goals
- Describe how the program fits with your abilities and goals
- Discuss your plan for graduate study
What are Graduate Schools Looking for?
They want students who are:
- Eager to learn and express a strong work ethic
- Highly self-motivated
- Able to work independently and with small groups
- Able to take constructive feedback