Getting ready to apply

If you are new to the process of applying to graduate school, this  video can provide a helpful overview on the  basics, including what getting a degree involves, the structure of academia, and logistics of applying. The video was produced in 2013, but all of the information in it remains important and relevant for students preparing to apply to Graduate School.

Finding your program

Whether you are looking for a traditional graduate degree, a certificate, an accelerated Master's program, or an interdisciplinary graduate program, we have something for you.

Once you have identified the program/degree you are interested in, find out about its specific requirements and deadlines on the program website or in the graduate catalog.

Graduate School Deadlines

Start preparing with enough time to submit your application before both the Graduate School deadlines and the departmental deadlines (which may be different).

Application Fee Waivers

Some applicants are eligible for a waiver of the application fee. Please visit our application fees page for a list of potential fee waivers.  

Letters of Recommendation

Many departments and programs require letters of recommendation as part of the application. Numerous websites  offer good suggestions about whom and how to ask for a recommendation letter, and what information the letter writer  should include.

• Cornell University offers a page of tips, including the information you should provide to a potential letter writer, and topics to discuss when asking for a letter. 
• Purdue’s Online Writing Lab (known as OWL) offers a great guide on the process, from getting organized to connecting with the people who write those letters after the application process. 

Where to find more information

Visit our How To Apply page for further information on the application process.

If you have questions specific to a department, please contact them directly.  You can find contact information on each program page in the graduate catalog.