There are several major components in the application process:

Search for Programs

Some helpful resources include www.gradschools.com, www.petersons.com, Best Graduate Schools Ranked - US News, and www.princetonreview.com

Standardized Tests 

Most graduate programs require that you take a standardized test as part of the application process.  Departmental requirements vary by institution so be sure to clarify what is required by each. There are several tests used in graduate school admissions such as:

• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) 
• Miller Analogies Test (MAT)  (offered through the College of Graduate and Continuing Education)
• Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT)  
• Law School Admission Test (LSAT)  
• Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) 
• Dental Admission Test (DAT)

*Practice tests can be found in test preparation books in the Career Center or viewing www.testprepreview.com, www.kaptest.com, or the links above.  

Personal Statement

The personal statement is your opportunity to express your commitment to the field, academic preparation and to articulate what you have to offer the program. Have your statement reviewed by the Career Center and/or the Reading and Writing Center.

Transcript 
Requests for official transcripts can be made at the Registrar in Parenzo Hall, Room 107.

Letters of Recommendation
Most graduate programs require letters of recommendation. Faculty often serve as references as they can attest to your ability to perform in the classroom.

Be sure to provide your recommender with:

• The deadlines for application
• Instructions for submitting
• Stamped and addressed envelopes
• A copy of your resume and unofficial transcript
• List of courses you took with the professor (if the recommender is a professor)
• Any special projects you have done with the recommender
• Conferences you have presented at or attended
• Information about your internships

Also, maintain contact to discuss how the process is going and to ensure that the recommendation was submitted.  It is always a nice gesture to send your recommenders a thank you note for their time.

G.P.A. 
Your GPA will also play a strong role in your consideration.  If you need to explain a situation or problem that impacted your grades (i.e. loss of family member, working full-time, etc.), feel free to do so in your personal statement.  Keep your explanation brief as the main focus of your personal statement should address the topic that was posed. Some programs will also ask for samples of your work or a portfolio.

There are several forms of need-based and merit-based aid available for graduate school.   

Fellowships 
A fellowship is a monetary award based on academic, athletic or personal achievements to support graduate studies, academic research or specialized training of particular interest to the granting organization. 

Assistantships 
Assistantships provide full or partial tuition and sometimes a stipend and health insurance in exchange for part-time employment. There are three different forms of assistantships: teaching, research and graduate assistantships. 

Teaching Assistants teach undergraduate courses, lead classroom discussions, facilitate small group activities, grade papers or supervise labs. 

Research Assistants perform research in their academic field, sometimes in collaboration with a faculty research project.

Graduate Assistantships are available in a number of departments or programs at the institution. Responsibilities vary greatly depending on the department and program.  Graduate assistants might be responsible for supervising residence halls, planning student activities, managing community service programs, etc. 

Scholarships
Scholarships are offered on a more limited basis for graduate study.  The graduate institution may offer scholarships.  

Federal Loans and Student Aid
Need-based financial aid is also available at the graduate level.  You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)  to determine your eligibility for federal aid. 

Loan Forgiveness Programs
Depending on what field you enter and your professional pursuits after school, some loans can be partially or fully canceled. 

Loan Deferment or Forbearance
A deferment or forbearance allows you to temporarily stop making your federal student loan payments or to temporarily reduce the amount you pay. You’ll need to work with your loan servicer to apply for deferment or forbearance; and be sure to keep making payments on your loan until the deferment or forbearance is in place. 

Employee Benefits
Some companies provide tuition reimbursement as part of their benefits package for employees.