Timeline for Applying to Graduate School
Here is a timeline that may be helpful when planning your application to graduate school. Please keep in mind that application deadlines vary by field and by the type of degree you a pursuing.
Junior Year (Year Prior to Applying)
- Research programs and institutions. Talk to faculty, alums, and others who have done graduate work in your field of interest.
- Collect literature and visit with school representatives at the Graduate and Professional School Information Day in the fall.
- If you’re interested in applying to medical or other health-related programs, consult with the Office of Fellowships and Pre-Health Advising office in M-N162.
Rising Seniors (Summer Prior to Applying)
- Obtain applications and catalogs for selected schools, or review literature at school and department websites.
- Set up a timeline of crucial dates and tasks.
- Review for and take standardized tests (Juniors should take the MCAT in April or August before Senior year).
- Visit schools.
- Write rough drafts of essays.
- Register with application services for law school and medical school.
First Semester Senior Year (Fall of Application Year)
- Ask faculty for letters of recommendation and fill out a registration form in the Center for Career Education.
- Take standardized tests if you have not yet done so (Seniors usually take the LSAT in June or October).
- Apply for Vassar and other fellowships.
- Attend the Graduate and Professional School Information Day in the fall.
- Rewrite essays and complete applications.
- Contact the registrar’s office to have transcripts sent.
- Set up interviews (if applicable).
Second Semester Senior Year (Spring of Application Year)
- Check with schools to make sure application file is complete; send fall transcripts.
- Visit programs that accept you.
- Send deposit and registration material.