Timeline for Applying to Graduate School
The timelines and requirements of graduate school programs vary, and students and post-graduates may be navigating various personal situations. This suggested timeline is intended to help students and post-graduates make initial plans for the application process.
Summer: July - August
- Review Considering Graduate School? page on website
- Explore different research interests: talk with professors, students, and alumni; search department/program websites; read journal articles; etc.
- Take the general GRE and/or register for the fall subject GRE, if applicable
- Programs vary in GRE requirements. Please check the individual programs for more information. THE GRE is offered regularly; however, the subject GREs are offered only at select times of the year. For current students on financial aid, the Student Deans Office may offer funds to take these exams. The scores are typically reportable for 5 years.
Fall: August - September
- Review Application Process and Tips page on website
- Create a CV: schedule an appointment with the CXD
- Connect with your major and/or research advisors if you are interested in applying
- If you have graduated, do not hesitate to reach out to your former advisors
- Create an initial list of graduate programs that interest you
Fall: September - October
- Contact research professors/groups that interest you
- Optional but encouraged: your advisors can help you craft an introductory e-mail
- Determine which graduate programs match your interest and which you would like to apply to
- You can always add/remove graduate programs
- Some programs have application fees. If you cannot afford the fees, contact the program director or talk with your advisor for help navigating the situation
- Start a graduate application to learn the different components
- Some programs may require additional application documents, such as a diversity statement
- Opening an application does not mean that you have to apply to the program
- Write a personal and/or research statement (most important part of your application)
- Ask your advisor for examples and/or advice. The process takes time.
- Review Letters of Recommendation page on website and contact your letter writers
- Determine whether you would like to apply for an external fellowship
- Not required: Almost all Ph.D. programs in the sciences offer stipends to accepted students. Fellowship applications are typically due in October. The process takes time so designate a month to work on the application.
- If applicable, take the subject GRE
Fall/Winter: November - January
- Submit applications to selected programs
Winter/Spring: January - April
- Notifications from graduate programs on acceptance
- Review Choosing a Graduate School page on website
- Talk to your advisor about expectations for visit weekends
- The visit weekends are highly recommended
- Decide which program is best suited for your personal and scientific growth