Planning ahead can make the application process more manageable. Use this timeline as a general guide to stay on track as you prepare for graduate or professional school.
Application Timeline
Two Years Before Graduation (Second-to-Last Year)
August–December
- Meet with faculty to discuss your interests and potential programs
- Visit the Career Center for career guidance
- Begin researching schools and programs
- Use the Postgraduate Program Assessment Coversheet to organize your notes
- Register for and start preparing for required admissions tests (e.g., GRE, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT)
January–June
- Continue researching programs in more detail
- Explore financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships
- Review application requirements and deadlines
- Connect with program directors or faculty at schools of interest
- Take graduate admissions practice tests to assess your readiness
- Register with national application services if needed (e.g., American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS))
One Year Before Graduation (Final Year)
July–September
- Ask programs about application fee waivers or research national or international organizations that offer application fee waivers or grants
- Begin drafting your personal statement or statement of purpose
- Take required admissions tests (be mindful of deadlines)
- Request official transcripts
- Ask for letters of recommendation and provide materials (résumé, draft statement, etc.)
October–March
- Revise and finalize your personal statement
- Connect with current students at prospective programs or attend campus visits
- Submit applications and required materials:
- Application forms
- Financial aid applications
- Test score reports (request reports be sent to your schools of choice)
- Official transcripts
- Letters of recommendation (request at least 4–6 weeks in advance)
- Portfolios, résumés, auditions, or other required materials
April–June
- Track application statuses and admissions decisions
- Choose your program and notify other schools of your decision
- Send thank-you notes to your recommenders
- Prepare for your transition to graduate school
Additional Resources
The Gentle Guide for Applying to Graduate Schools (external page)