Graduate School Application Process

Things You Need

• Resume/ Academic CV

  Depending on the nature of your program you may be required to submit a curriculum vitae (CV) as part of your application. There are two main types of CVs that you may have to submit:

  • A standard CV or resume: 1-page document outlining your education and experiences.
  • An academic CV: similar to your standard CV, but focuses more on your academic studies and research. Often 2+ pages long. More often required for research based and PhD programs.
• Application Essays

  The terms Personal Statements and Statements of Purpose are often used interchangeably, but the two serve very different purposes.

  Personal Statement
  A summary of your personal character and skills that demonstrate your readiness for the program you are applying to. It frames your motivation for pursuing a particular field of study in personal terms, while mentioning previous relevant activities such as:

  • Academics
    
  • Internships
  • Volunteering
  • Study abroad
  • Student clubs
  • Significant events in your personal life

  Statement of Purpose
  A summary of your research and academic experiences that provide a clear trajectory of your career thus far, leading to your application to this particular program. It frames your motivation for pursuing a particular field of study/career in academic terms, while mentioning previous relevant activities such as:

  • Academics, including significant course projects
  • Internships
  • Volunteering
  • Capstone/thesis projects 
• Letters of Recommendation

  A graduate school application may require three or more letters of recommendation (LoR) from your former professors and/or employers. These letters should focus on academic achievements, intellectual promise, leadership ability, and personal character.

  Letters of recommendations are an important part of an application. Be sure to maintain good relationships with potential referees by staying in touch. This allows you to request a letter even years after officially interacting with the referee. 
  

  When you ask a referee for a LoR, remember to do the following:

  • Meet him or her (in person or Skype) to ask for the letter and explain the purpose of the letter.
  • Send your CV and a cover letter or personal statement in order to guide the professor in tailoring the letter according to your interest and skills.
  • You can also ask the referee to focus on some items you would like to be highlighted in the letter.
  • Ask him/her several months in advance to write the letter. Use friendly reminders before the submission deadline.
  • Waive your right to see the letter.
  • Be very clear about the addressee and where it should be mailed.

  When choosing a recommender make sure you are choosing those who know you best and have the capacity to write strong positive letter on your behalf. 

• Interviews

  Select graduate programs will require an interview as part of their admissions process. Please keep in mind that an interview is not indicative of acceptance and that some institutions may require your physical presence. To best prepare for the interview you should:
  

  • Schedule a mock interview with the Career Development Center.
  • Review your graduate school application.
  • Research your program and be prepared to discuss your motivation for attending.
  • Have questions ready to ask the admissions officers.
  • Be professionally dressed.