I Want to go to Grad School, Now What?

Start Early
If you want to go right from Bachelors to Masters without a break you will need to apply at least one year in advance.  But it is never too late to go on to graduate school even if you take a break.

Research Universities
Think about the type of job you want and then think about which degrees would work. Look at education requirements on jobs to see what they ask for. There is not just one degree for each job out there. Plan to apply to 10-15 schools if not more. To find universities use the following sites:

Review Applications
Visit the universities website to learn more about cost, length of program, application process, and deadlines.  Download applications from websites or call and have them sent. This will help you know exactly what will be needed.  In the bookstore you can do some research on US NEWS and World Reports Magazine as to detailed statistics on scores upon entrance or ask the schools’ admissions counselor. Once you have application put them in order by deadlines and mark your schedule to keep track of when things are due.

Standardized Tests
Most programs require the GRE, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT or other tests for entrance.  Make sure to find out which test is needed for your program.  Some programs will waive these tests if you have a high GPA.

Write your Essay
It is never too early to write your essay or personal statement. The career center library has books and handouts with samples.  Make sure to have a few different people review your essay.

Meet with an Admission Counselor
Contact colleges and universities and ask if they have information meetings or campus tours.  Try to set a meeting with an admission counselor or a phone consultation.  This can help your chances of getting in.  Talk to financial aid and career centers too to get a feel for what they offer and if they are service-oriented.

Set up a Placement File for your Letters of Recommendation
If you are wanting the Career Center to send your Letters of Recommendation to Law Schools, Med. School or General Programs, letter writers will need to send letters to us but salutation on letters should read "Dear Admissions Committee" Complete the waiver form and contact Cynthia Smith at csmith@clunet.edu. Free Service

Apply and see where you get accepted
Once you apply and get responses back, you will have a decision to make.  This decision on where to go to graduate school should be based on the classes, how long the program lasts, location and campus, and where you feel you will fit in best so you can excel in you program.

 

For more information on going to Grad School, stop in the Career Center to look at our new books or schedule an appointment with a Career Counselor.

For assistance call: (805)493-3200
or contact: Cynthia Smith, csmith@callutheran.edu

Feedback Form