Preparing Graduate School Applications
Completing graduate school applications requires research, planning, thoughtful writing, and attention to detail. Click on links below to learn more about many of these key steps.
Overview to Applying to Graduate School
Be the best candidate you can be (by being proactive in preparing for grad school)!
- Plan a timeline for your graduate school application process
- Decide which programs to apply to
- Take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) if required for your desired program. Note that many programs are making the General GRE test optional for Fall 2021 graduate school admissions.
- Prepare and submit a resume along with your other application materials if you are requested to do so.
- Identify at least three potential letter of recommendation writers and reach out to them early in the process. Indeed.com and Rice University both have good advice on how to complete this step.
- The Psychology Dept. has a template that will help you to provide information to your letter writers. This template is to be used only after people have agreed to write for you. (Note: The template opens in Google sheets and if you are on a laptop, you may need to reduce the size percentage of your view down to 75%)
- Write a detailed personal statement, focused on how your interests match the program(s) you are applying to.
- Request official copies of your undergraduate transcripts from all institutions you have attended.
- Please contact your advisor or another faculty member if you would like more information!