How to Get Into Grad School

Whether you want to be an engineer or an Egyptologist, graduate
school may be a necessary stepping-stone. But getting an advanced
degree is a huge investment: Choose carefully to find an academically
excellent program that opens career doors as well.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Work in your chosen field for a while to gain experience and knowledge. Job experience with specific applications will help when you apply to graduate schools.

2. Prepare for and take the required test, whether it be the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), Law School Admission Test (LSAT), Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) or Dental Admission Test (DAT). See 151 Ace the College Admissions Tests for tips.

3. Investigate graduate programs (see 149 Decide Which College Is Right for You). Order catalogs and visit Web sites such as GradSchool.com to learn about schools that interest you. Make sure you fulfill the entrance requirements. Investigate job placements for students who complete the programs.

4. Talk to the school's faculty members. Find out their background and areas of interest or research.

5. Ask other students for frank feedback on the program, both pros and cons. Find out what support is available to students.

6. Apply. (See 152 Organize Your College Applications.)

Tips & Warnings

• Apply to five or six schools, including some long shots and fallbacks. The average application fee is about $50 per school, which can sometimes be waived for those with limited income.
• Get your applications in early to improve your chances of admission. Give your references plenty of notice, too.
• Confirm that libraries and labs are well equipped and up to date.
• Graduate schools offer a variety of flexible programs for working people (see 158 Get a Degree While You're Working).

[teresasharlene]

on 2/4/2009 Great!
Also, surrounding yourself with like-minded people truly helps. Do go it alone!

[outdoorperson]

on 10/23/2006 maybe also look into how you will pay for the program... Considering going to a school that will pay for part of your education.