Prepare for Graduate School
Welcome to our virtual community space for college students planning to pursue graduate studies, and for advanced degree holders preparing for the next steps in their careers. This platform offers guidance on selecting the right programs, crafting compelling applications, and preparing for entrance exams.
Self-Assess
- Clarify your career goals and your reasons for pursuing a graduate, schedule an appointment with a Career Advisor to discuss
- Determine whether an advanced degree is essential for your desired career path. If you’re not sure, talk to people in your field of interest or search occupations of interest on O*net, specifically looking at the Job Zone and Education sections to learn what level of degree is common for that occupation
- Talk with a career advisor or mentor to explore your interests and evaluate your options
Do Your Research
- Determine which field of study and degree type (e.g., Master’s, Ph.D., Ed.D., MBA) best aligns with your goals
- Attend information sessions or graduate school fairs (virtual or in-person) to gather more details and ask questions
- Look for open houses where you can learn more about faculty, facilities, and program culture
- Connect with current grad students or alumni to gain an insider’s perspective on the program experience
Get Organized
- Every graduate program is different—read each program’s application instructions carefully
- Make a checklist for each program to track required materials and deadlines
- Note application deadlines—many are due in late fall or winter for a fall start, but dates vary
- Plan ahead if you need to schedule exams (e.g., GRE, TOEFL) or complete any prerequisite courses
Work on Your Application Materials
Common application requirements include:
- Online application form
- Undergraduate transcripts
- Standardized test scores (e.g., GRE, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT, etc.)
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose, Personal Statement, or other personal essay (helpful guides WL at Purdue’s Personal Statement Writing Guide or Statement of Purpose Guide)
- Resume/CV (Meet with a Career Advisor for assistance)
