UNLV Career Handbook - Magazine - Page 54
WHAT ARE GRADUATE SCHOOLS LOOKING FOR?
BUILD YOUR GRADUATE
SCHOOL APPLICATION
You will want to start working on your application
materials early in this process. While some application
materials, like transcripts, are easy to acquire, other
aspects, like drafting a personal statement and
preparing for standardized tests, will require more time.
Transcripts
• Order transcripts from all postsecondary
institutions attended
• Use a foreign credential evaluation agency
(if required) if the institution is outside the U.S.
Standardized Tests
• Determine which, if any, standardized tests you
need to take
• Schedule tests well in advance to have plenty
of time to study
• Gather study materials and stick to a study schedule
Each graduate program will have its own criteria for evaluating
applications, but generally speaking, they take a holistic
approach to assessing applications. They want to understand
who you are as a scholar, professional, person, and colleague.
Graduate schools admit only the strongest applicants to their
programs. Applications receive an extensive departmental
review that considers a combination of factors, including
academic degrees and records, the statement of purpose,
letters of recommendation, test scores, and relevant research
or work experience.
There are many steps you can take now to improve the
strength of your application. Start by making sure you get the
most out of your undergraduate experience. While grades are
very important in graduate school applications, so are things
like campus involvement in relevant clubs and professional
organizations, relationships with faculty mentors, and relevant
research or work experience.
Graduate programs also look for applicants with speci昀椀c
goals, research agendas, and career plans. Your application
materials must demonstrate your understanding and
commitment to the program and 昀椀eld. They are looking for
applicants who can translate knowledge from the classroom
to real-world environments.
A Personal Statement
• Keep your statement brief and adhere to the
guidelines provided
• Describe how your interests 昀椀t with the
degree program
• Get feedback on your draft, and be sure to edit
and proofread
Letters of Recommendation
• Contact potential recommenders at least two
months in advance
• Provide recommenders with drafts of your personal
statement, resume, or writing sample
Writing Sample or Portfolio
• Check for any supplemental materials needed for
the degree program
• Make sure your writing sample demonstrates
pro昀椀ciency in your chosen 昀椀eld
• Make sure your portfolio aligns with industry and
program standards
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Tailor your resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV) for
the degree program
• Demonstrate relevant experience with examples
and showcase your skills
54
CAREER HANDBOOK
ABOUT THE APPLICATION PROCESS
Required application materials for graduate school can vary
widely between universities and programs, so it is essential to
understand the requirements before applying.
Most universities also charge a nonrefundable application fee,
which varies depending on the university. Some universities
offer fee waivers for applicants who meet certain criteria.
Common Elements of Graduate School Applications:
• Application and Application Fee
• Transcripts from all Postsecondary Institutions
• Letters of Recommendation
• A Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose
• Test Scores from Standardized Tests, such as the GRE,
GMAT, LSAT, MCAT
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Writing Sample or Portfolio, which is typical for creative
writing, art, and architecture programs
• In-Person or Virtual Interview
Check with each university and program for speci昀椀c
application material requirements.
