Applying to Graduate School

Step One:

Write or email each school or program of interest to receive your own set of graduate catalogs, program brochures, application forms, and financial aid information. You can use the Peterson's Guides in the CDC or on the internet to find addresses and phone numbers.

Step Two:

If at all possible, visit those schools which you would most like to attend. Plan to make a thorough tour of campus facilities, housing areas (if necessary), and the town or city where the program is located. Also, make arrangements to talk with current students of the program, faculty, career center personnel, and a financial aid representative.

Step Three:

Complete the application and remember, just as graduate programs differ, so too, may the application process for each program. It is critical to read all application instructions carefully. You need to clearly understand what materials need to be submitted to be considered for admission. If you have any questions at all about the application process, do not hesitate to call the chairperson of the program or an admissions representative to have your concerns answered. It is your responsibility to submit all required information for each program prior to the stated deadlines. Although admission requirements may vary among programs, typical requirements might include:

1. A non-refundable application fee usually ranging from $25 to $100.
2. A minimum grade point average.
3. Official transcripts from all colleges previously attended.
   • SUNY College at Buffalo transcript - available in GC 204.
   
   
4. A specific undergraduate major.
5. Letters of recommendation.
6. An entrance examination. Here's a list of the most common examinations:
   Graduate Record Exam (GRE) (application booklet available at www.ets.org/gre or in the CDC)
   Miller Analogies Test (MAT) (testing by appointment - Contact The Graduate School at 878-5601)
   For Professional Schools:
   Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) (application booklet available at www.mba.com or in the CDC)
   Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) (application booklet available at www.lsac.org or in the CDC)
   Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) - available in HA 113
   Dental Admission Test (DAT) (available in HA 113)
7. An essay stating your future goals and reasons for obtaining an advanced degree, commonly referred to as a personal statement. The CDC has books to assist you and we will critque a printed draft of your statement.
8. Resume and/or cover letter (sometimes referred to as letter of intent).
9. An interview with a graduate admissions representative(s) or the chairperson of the program in which you are interested.
10. A physical examination.

What Else Do I Need To Know About Applying To Graduate School?

1. Most deadlines for fall admission are between January and March, however, in some graduate programs, applications are reviewed and approved as they are received. As a result, programs may be completely filled long before the application deadline. In these cases, early submission of all application materials could increase the possibility of acceptance.
2. Entrance exams should be taken well ahead of time to ensure receipt of scores by the application deadline, and to allow yourself time to retake the exam if necessary.
3. Information regarding financial aid or assistantships and fellowships should be requested early. Applying for these usually involve separate forms and deadlines.
4. Fill out all forms and applications legibly and completely. Typing is recommended whenever possible. Do not leave any blanks or exclude any pertinent information.
5. Do not rely on one area such as outstanding letters of recommendation to carry through your application. The best candidates for admission are those persons who show a solid overall performance record.
6. Make a photocopy of everything before sending in your application.

Is There Advisement Available For Specialized Programs?

Students Interested In The Health-Related Professions
Students considering medical, dental, veterinary programs etc. should seek advisement from the pre-health professions advisor, Kelly Boos, Assistant to the Dean, Natural & Social Sciences, HA 113, 878-6674

Students Interested In Law
A pre-law advisement committee works with students in selecting course work appropriate for entry into law school. Contact Kelly Boos, Assistant to the Dean, Natural & Social Sciences, HA 113, 878-6674

Updated: 4/18/2007