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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Sealing the Deal!

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

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

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL GOOD LUCK!

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Scott Delcourt – or FirstClass Graduate School, Stodder Hall, Rm 42 Patty Counihan – or FirstClass Career Center, Memorial Union