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Admission Requirements

Each field has different admission requirements that may also vary by institution. You will want to find out what criteria are used by the school to evaluate and select students. Most will require the following items:

• Application form, fees, and application deadlines (some programs have rolling admissions)
• Essay and goal statement
• Academic transcripts
• Graduate admission test scores such as the (most graduate schools) (business schools) (law schools) (medical schools)
• Letters of recommendation
• Admissions interview

Programs Offered

• What specializations are available?
• Does the program focus on theory and research, or stress the practical application of knowledge and skills?
• Does the program provide real work experience such as practicum, graduate assistantships, or internships?
• Is the curriculum structured or flexible?
• Are there opportunities to work on research projects?

Faculty

• Who are they and what are their credentials? What have they published?
• Do they hold degrees in fields of expertise from leading universities?
• What is the faculty/student ratio?

Reputation

• Is the program nationally ranked in terms of excellence?
• Is the program well established or relatively new?
• Who has graduated from the program and what are they doing now?

Cost

• What are the tuition and fees? Is there an additional surcharge for non-residents?
• What financial aid is available in the form of loans, scholarships, internships, and work study funds?
• Are teaching or research assistantships available?  How do you locate them?

Graduate Assistantships

• Many graduate programs offer one of three types of graduate assistantships: administrative, teaching or research.
• These competitive awards typically provide compensation in the form of a full tuition waiver in addition to a monthly stipend for 10-20 hours of work per week.
• Check out our Graduate Assistantship Guide to learn more about finding and applying for assistantships at ºÚÁÏÍø.

Location & Size

• Would you be happier in a small town or a large urban area?
• Is the school in an area you might want to stay in after you graduate?
• Consider the size of the department and university.  A larger institution will likely have more extensive facilities and libraries.

State Regulations & Residency Requirements

• Many state universities are required by law to give admission preference to in-state residents. These regulations apply to your legal residence and may affect the cost of your tuition.

Career & Networking Assistance

• What career planning and employment search assistance is available through your academic department?
• If you hope to develop relationships with industry leaders, select a school that prides itself on real-world orientation and opportunities to mingle with recognized leaders in your field.