Graduate School Application Process & Timeline

Application Timeline & Process

The timetable outlined below is a guide to assist students who plan to apply for academic Master’s degree and Ph.D programs. Because of the range of programs and requirements, the information below is a general framework. The process typically begins in the first semester of junior year, or two years prior to application. Students should plan on submitting application materials by the end of first semester senior year, or approximately eight months prior to matriculation.

The graduate school application process, also outlined below, is similar to the process you used when applying to undergraduate colleges; there are materials to gather and deadlines to meet. Many students find it helpful to compile a spreadsheet to help them stay organized and avoid missing important deadlines. Early decisions and rolling admissions policies are common, even if not explicitly stated. There are additional featured articles at the bottom of this page that can help you with some of these components.

Writing Personal Statements for Graduate School

Personal Statements

Preparing a well-written and effective personal statement (sometimes referred to as statements of purpose or personal essays) that clearly articulates your preparation, goals, and motivation for pursuing that specific graduate degree is critically important. You will need to …

By Yale Office of Career Strategy
Yale Office of Career Strategy
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Financing Graduate School – PhD Programs

Direct and Indirect Costs

The direct costs of attending graduate school include tuition and fees. Students are also often required to buy themselves health insurance in order to be enrolled. Each school has different tuition and fee charges and different …

By Yale Office of Career Strategy
Yale Office of Career Strategy
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Taking Standardized Tests for Graduate School

Standardized Tests

Standardized tests are used in combination with your other application materials to gauge your preparation for graduate-level work. Tests may be general or subject-specific depending on the subject and program requirements. Determine which, if any, standardized tests you …

By Yale Office of Career Strategy
Yale Office of Career Strategy
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Sidebar

Job Search Resources

Service to School (S2S) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that provides free college and grad school application counseling to military veterans …

In an effort to support students pursuing careers in the nonprofit, government and the arts sectors, those interviewing for national …

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