THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Applying to Graduate SchoolsRobin Audesse

Assistant to the Provost

&Scott G. Delcourt

Associate Dean, UMaine Graduate School

&Patty Counihan

Director, Career Center

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Graduate education is not simply more advanced undergraduate study:

research- or professionally-focused

classes are often small, discussion-oriented

higher quality of interaction with faculty

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Graduate admissions process is different than undergraduate admissions:

The Club decentralized

faculty-centered

emphasis on student fit in program

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Graduate programs may vary in: admission requirements time to complete curricular structure availability of financial aid job prospects

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Consider: school/program size faculty academic interests location cost financial aid availability program requirements average time-to-degree

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Sources/types of financial support more varied in graduate education.

Graduate study is often free!

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Types of financial aid opportunities: teaching assistantships research assistantships administrative assistantships fellowships traineeships need-based federal aid

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Information gathering: On-line Information Graduate Admissions Offices Professional Conferences Career Center Graduate Fairs

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

• Consult with Graduate Admissions Offices

• and

• Check Program Websites

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression….

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Start application process early.Some graduate schools have earlier application deadlines, especially for financial aid decisions.

Applications take time to complete.

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Schedule required exams: GRE - General and Subject tests GMAT MAT TOEFL

Prepare adequately, but keep in mind that exam scores alone won’t usually guarantee admission.

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Request letters and college transcripts well in advance of application deadlines…

(Faculty and registrars’ offices get very busy December-February.)

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Your recommendation letters and statement of purpose say the most about “who you are”.

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

•Sealing the Deal!

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Important strategy:

Distinguish yourself with decision-makers!

make personal contact with faculty correspond often visit school

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Arrange a school visit if you can:- required by some Graduate Schools or individual programs.- can increase chances of being admittedand/or receiving financial aid.- many schools help pay for the visit.- opportunity to talk to students

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

•GOOD LUCK!

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

• Scott Delcourt – 581-3291 or FirstClass• Graduate School, Stodder Hall, Rm 42

• Patty Counihan – 581-1355 or FirstClass• Career Center, Memorial Union