1. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Applying to Graduate Schools Robin Audesse Assistant to the Provost & Scott G. Delcourt Associate Dean, UMaine Graduate School & Patty Counihan Director, Career Center

2. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Graduate education is not simply more advanced undergraduate study:  research- or professionally-focused  classes are often small, discussion-oriented  higher quality of interaction with faculty

3. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Graduate admissions process is different than undergraduate admissions: The Club  decentralized  faculty-centered  emphasis on student fit in program

4. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Graduate programs may vary in:  admission requirements  time to complete  curricular structure  availability of financial aid  job prospects

5. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Consider:  school/program size  faculty academic interests  location  cost  financial aid availability  program requirements  average time-to-degree

6. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Sources/types of financial support more varied in graduate education. Graduate study is often free!

7. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Types of financial aid opportunities:  teaching assistantships  research assistantships  administrative assistantships  fellowships  traineeships  need-based federal aid

8. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Information gathering:  On-line Information  Graduate Admissions Offices  Professional Conferences  Career Center  Graduate Fairs

9. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Consult with Graduate Admissions Offices and Check Program Websites

10. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression….

11. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Start application process early. Some graduate schools have earlier application deadlines, especially for financial aid decisions. Applications take time to complete.

12. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Schedule required exams:  GRE - General and Subject tests  GMAT  MAT  TOEFL Prepare adequately, but keep in mind that exam scores alone won’t usually guarantee admission.

13. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Request letters and college transcripts well in advance of application deadlines… ( Faculty and registrars’ offices get very busy December-February.)

14. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Your recommendation letters and statement of purpose say the most about “who you are”.

15. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Sealing the Deal!

16. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Important strategy: Distinguish yourself with decision-makers!  make personal contact with faculty  correspond often  visit school

17. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Arrange a school visit if you can: - required by some Graduate Schools or individual programs. - can increase chances of being admitted and/or receiving financial aid. - many schools help pay for the visit. - opportunity to talk to students

18. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL GOOD LUCK!

19. THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Scott Delcourt – 581-3291 or FirstClass Graduate School, Stodder Hall, Rm 42 Patty Counihan – 581-1355 or FirstClass Career Center, Memorial Union