Graduate School Application Guide: Timelines, Requirements, and Benefits of Early Decision

Application Timeline

Graduate school applications typically open in August or September for fall admission the following year. It's advisable to start planning early, familiarize yourself with the admission process, and identify necessary requirements.

Key Dates:

• Application opening: August-September
• Application deadline: December-January (varies by institution)

Application Requirements

Requirements may vary between institutions. Common documents include:

• CV/Resume
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Personal History Statement (PHS)
• Transcripts
• GRE scores
• TOEFL scores (if applicable)
• Letters of Recommendation

Most documents should be submitted in PDF format. Transcripts often need to be scanned in advance.

Letters of Recommendation Process:

1. Enter recommender information in the online application
2. University sends automatic request to recommenders
3. Recommenders upload letters via provided link
4. Applicant monitors status and follows up if necessary

Benefits of Early Application

1. Time buffer: Allows for addressing missing documents or delivery issues
2. Strategic planning: Enables applying to additional programs after early decisions
3. Increased acceptance odds: Particularly beneficial for rolling admissions programs
4. Scholarship opportunities: Early deadlines often align with scholarship applications

Note: These benefits primarily apply to applicants who have completed all general requirements.

Important Considerations

• Verify receipt of test scores by the university
• Double-check all application components before submission
• Be aware that editing is typically not allowed after submission
• For rolling admissions, apply as early as possible to improve chances

Further details on the graduate school application process will be covered in subsequent articles.