Graduate School Application Checklist

Thinking about graduate school? Use this step-by-step guide to stay organized and confident throughout the process.

Step 1: Self-Assessment & Exploration

  • Clarify your academic and career goals — why graduate school?
  • Decide on the degree type (Master’s, PhD, Professional School).
  • Identify research interests and areas you want to explore.
  • Talk with professors, career advisors, or professionals in the field.

💡 Tip: Conduct 2–3 informational interviews to understand what graduate study looks like in your area of interest.

Step 2: Research Schools & Programs

  • Build a list of programs that match your goals and lifestyle.
  • Review faculty research interests and program strengths.
  • Compare program structures (coursework vs. research heavy).
  • Check admission requirements (GPA, tests, prerequisites).
  • Track deadlines and requirements in a spreadsheet.

What to Include in Your Spreadsheet:

  • School Name & Program – Clearly label each row with the university and degree program.
  • Application Deadline(s) – Note priority vs. final deadlines (some programs have multiple).
  • Standardized Test Requirement – GRE/GMAT/LSAT/MCAT required, optional, or waived.
  • Recommendation Letters – How many are required? From faculty, employers, or both?
  • Essays/Statements – Note if they want a Statement of Purpose, Personal Statement, Diversity Statement, or writing sample.
  • Transcripts – Which type (official vs. unofficial), how to submit, and to whom.
  • Application Fee – Cost per school; note if you’ve paid or requested a waiver.
  • Interview Requirement – Whether an interview is required or optional.
  • Funding/Fellowships – Deadlines for program-based or external funding opportunities.
  • Status Column – Use checkboxes or color-coding (Not Started / In Progress / Submitted).

💡 Tip: Aim for a balanced list: reach schools, good matches, and likely admits.

Step 3: Standardized Tests (if required)

  • Confirm if GRE, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT, etc. are required or optional.
  • Register early and plan your study schedule (3–6 months before exam).
  • Send scores directly to programs.

Step 4: Application Materials

  • Resume or CV tailored to academic and research experiences.
  • Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose linking past experiences with future goals.
  • Writing sample or portfolio (if required).
  • Transcripts — request these early.

💡 Tip: Have at least two people review your personal statement.

Step 5: Letters of Recommendation

  • Choose 2–3 faculty or supervisors who know your work well.
  • Ask early (6–8 weeks before deadlines).
  • Provide them with your resume, statement draft, and a list of deadlines.

Step 6: Submitting Applications

  • Complete all online applications carefully.
  • Double-check for errors and completeness.
  • Pay fees or request waivers (if eligible).
  • Submit at least one week before the official deadline.

Step 7: Financial Planning

  • Research assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships.
  • Ask about program funding packages.
  • Complete the FAFSA (for U.S. programs).
  • Budget for application, test, and transcript costs.

Step 8: Interview Prep (if required)

  • Research the program and faculty thoroughly.
  • Practice common grad school interview questions.
  • Prepare thoughtful questions to ask interviewers.
  • Do a mock interview with your career center.

Step 9: Making a Decision

  • Compare offers (funding, faculty, location, career outcomes).
  • Reach out to current students or alumni.
  • Visit campuses, if possible.
  • Accept by the deadline and notify other programs of your decision.

Step 10: Transitioning to Grad School

  • Finalize financial aid and housing.
  • Register for classes and orientation.
  • Connect with faculty and new classmates.
  • Celebrate your achievement! 🎉