There are many steps in researching and applying to graduate school. But once you get started, you will find that it is not that complicated-it just requires that you get organized. The following is a list of guidelines to help you through this process.
If you are thinking about applying to graduate programs but are not totally sure if that is what you would like to do you can be conducting a job search at the same time in order to keep all options open!

• Step 1: Why Do You Want
  To Attend Graduate School


• Step 2: Research and Discuss Options


• Step 3: Check Admissions Requirements


• Step 4: Compile and Submit Applications

Step 1: Why Do You Want To Attend Graduate School

Does your career field require an advanced degree?

• Do you have a strong interest in the field of study and in obtaining an increased knowledge base?
• Are you enthusiastic about continuing your education?
• Are faculty encouraging you to pursue advanced education based on your academic abilities?
• Will an advanced degree improve your chances for a better salary, job opportunities and/or promotions?

• Are you considering graduate school because you feel you will have no job opportunities with your undergraduate major?
• Are you postponing a difficult job market?
• Will you be over trained and underemployed?

If you need some guidance, stop by CSO to speak with a counselor, talk to professors and targeted industry professionals and research career options. Below are a few links to articles that offer "Food For Thought."

Faculty Advice for Undergraduates Considering Graduate School by Phil Agre
www.jobweb.com

Step 2: Research and Discuss Options

• Discuss possible programs with your advisor, professors, deans, counselors, etc.
• Decide on type of program in which you are interested.
• Utilize graduate school reference books and catalogues.
• Check into accreditation, assistantships (teaching/research/administrative) ,fellowships, and financial aid.
• Contact schools for additional information and answers to specific questions.
• Apply to a "workable" number of programs (Average: Approximately 6.)

Applying to graduate school is much like applying to colleges: you want to apply to a few "reach" schools, a few schools you will be relatively competitive to get into, and a few schools you feed you have a good chance of getting into.

Are your potential schools realistic choices?

CSO Resources:

• The Peterson's Guide to Graduate Schools Series
• Various graduate school literature in Career Library (Falvey Library also maintains graduate school information)
• Graduate and professional School Admissions Forum held in Fall of each year
• Credentials packets

Step 3: Check Admissions Requirements

• Confirm undergraduate course requirements/proper prerequisites.
• Determine the required graduate test (will be noted in Peterson's Graduate Guide).
• GRE (Graduate Record Examination): primarily required by arts & science, engineering, nursing programs, etc. Please see our links section for links to GRE related information.
• GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test): primarily required by business and management programs.
• MAT (Miller Analogy Test): accepted by some social science/humanities programs; given by VU's Counseling Center in the Health Services Building.
• Identify number and types of references needed.
• Open credentials file at CSO (initiate earlier in process); transcript can be added to your file by contacting Registrar's Office.
• Meet deadline and registration dates.

Step 4: Compile and Submit Applications

Your admissions essay or personal statement (if required) should meet all of the specific parameters such as length and set-up. It will probably be revised a few times before you send it. Have someone proofread your essay.

• Double check all your application materials before sending; including letters or recommendation, transcripts, written statements, and any other additional forms.
• Photocopy what you send and date them (for your records.)
• Attempt to send all materials together.
• Contact the school to verify that your application has arrived.
• Contact the school if you have any specific information.

Some schools interview potential candidates as a part of their admissions process.