Graduate School Application Prep

If you know what you would like to study when you attend graduate school, then you are ahead of the curve! However, if you’re not quite sure what you would like to study, take some time to reflect on your interests, skills, who you would like to become, and how your answers align with a potential graduate school program. Graduate school can be very expensive so take some time to think it through before you make a decision!

If you know what you would like to study, researching schools and potential programs of interest can help you narrow down your search of schools. You may also want to take other factors into consideration such as tuition, curriculum, and geographical location. Your research can consist of visiting the school’s website, speaking with current students or recent alums, and scheduling an informational interview with a staff or faculty member of the program. As you are conducting your research, you can use the Graduate School’s “Things to Consider” table to help you keep notes!

While you are researching potential schools and programs, make sure that you pay close attention to the application for the program. This will provide you with the application requirements and deadlines. Paying close attention to this information will inform you on what is needed to be accepted into the program and how you will need to prepare yourself to become ready to apply.

Throughout your time in undergraduate school, do not overlook the importance of building relationships. Connecting with faculty and staff members and maintaining contact with previous supervisors can be extremely helpful, as most graduate school programs typically ask for 2-4 letters or recommendations. Having these established relationships will make it easier for you to decide who to reach out to and provide an opportunity for the individual you have asked to write a personalized letter of recommendation.

Deadlines are extremely important. While you are looking at the application requirements pay close attention to the application deadlines. Doing so will help you plan out when to take required tests (if applicable), request for transcripts, ask for letters of recommendation to be written, and complete additional application materials.

Duke Graduate School has an amazing resource, “How to Choose the Right Graduate School”, which includes tips and tools to guide you through your grad school prep and decision-making process. This resource can assist you with both Duke and non-Duke graduate school application prep.