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Students considering graduate or professional school programs should meet with their academic and/or pre-professional program advisor(s) to assess the pros and cons of an advanced degree. They can help you discern and reflect on the decisions ahead including when, how, and where to apply after graduating from ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ. 

Here are some reflection questions to serve as a guide through the process:

1. What are your career goals? Is a graduate degree necessary? Search to find examples of career pathways that you are seeking. Consider whether gaining more experience through employment, a gap year experience, internship, or shadowing might be useful in your application process.  Many application cycles begin a year or more before enrollment (i.e., if you plan to begin your program in Fall 2026, you will apply in Fall 2025).
2. Narrow your list of schools. Search for the career you want and which programs people sought for that career. Use search engines such as and to find programs. Consider applying to 4 to 6 schools. Where are the scholars in your field? Which program best fits your career goals? Where do you want to live for the foreseeable future? What are the employment outcomes of the graduates? Does the vision of the program or the institution’s philosophy fit with your own values? What are the financial aid opportunities?
3. Create a spreadsheet. What is the application timeline for each program? Is there a common application? How many recommendations are needed? Do you need a graduate admission test (i.e. GRE, LSAT, etc.)?  You can request transcripts through the Most programs require a personal statement and a curriculum vitae (CV). The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Writing Center can help you prepare those important documents. Some programs will invite you for an interview and some will request a writing sample. The can help with with alumni connections and in some cases, mock interviews.

Search Engines for graduate programs

Graduate Admission Tests

Financial Aid

(immigrants and children of immigrants eligible)
(merit-based graduate scholarship)
-Check with professional associations for scholarships (i.e., ,Ìý )
-Search for employment opportunities at the institution. The position may give a tuition discount or provide housing on campus.
-Masters and PhD programs often have teaching fellowships, research assistantships, and other financial aid opportunities. Check with each program’s Office of Admission.