The graduate school application process requires you to stay organized, especially when you are applying to multiple schools. Admission and application deadlines and requirements vary widely between schools, so make sure to adhere to the admissions timelines and instructions provided by the graduate schools to which you are applying.
Sample timeline, assuming your goal is to submit a completed application package by January 1st:
Junior Year – Second Semester
- Read the “Graduate School Guide” provided by FGCU Career Development Services
- Start researching the graduate schools that interest you.
- Get organized. Create a file for each school with the admission requirements and timelines.
- Talk with your faculty about your decision and what schools they recommend.
- Make a plan for completing an internship, research project, and/or volunteer activity in the next six months that will enhance your professional skills as well as enhance your graduate school candidacy
Summer Before Senior Year
- Register and start studying for the required standardized exam(s).
- Optional: Register for a test preparation course if you think it is necessary.
- Start conducting research on how you are going to finance your degree
- Start working on your personal statement(s).
- Start working on your resume or CV as appropriate, based on the application instructions for each program.
- If a portfolio is required, start assembling all your materials
Early Fall
- Finalize personal statement and resume/CV.
- Request letters of recommendation from faculty. Include personal statement and resume/CV with request.
- Order transcripts from all post-secondary institutions and request official copies to be sent to schools.
- Take standardized exams and request that your scores be sent to the appropriate schools.
- Keep your grades up.
Mid-Late Fall
- Complete application forms.
- Make copies of all application materials for your records.
- Complete portfolio (if required).
- Follow-up with any faculty that have yet to submit a letter of recommendation.
December
- Submit all application materials to all schools.
- Start making plans for any campus visits (optional).