Below we have collected general information about applying to particular types of degree programs. This information is intended to give a general overview. It is your job to investigate the particular requirements of the type of program that you’d like to attend.
Funding your graduate application
The process of applying to graduate school is expensive! It costs money to take standardized tests, to send standardized test scores, to request transcripts, and to actually apply for institutions (i.e., application fees). Many times, programs have funds to cover the applications for students who cannot afford to pay. It is always a good idea to reach out to the graduate school for each institution you’re applying to and ask about getting your fees waived. There might also be ways that you can get your standardized test fee waived or covered.
Master’s programs
Applications for Master’s programs vary more than other programs. This is likely because many programs allow students to apply for admittance in the autumn semester or spring semester. Check the timeline of the type of program you’re interested in! Below are some requirements for Master's programs:
- Course requirements
Some programs might require a specific type of undergraduate degree to apply.
- Standardized tests
STEM Master’s programs typically require students to take the GRE. Some programs might require GRE subject tests.
- Letters of recommendation
Most programs require 3 letters of recommendation. It is good practice to give your letter writers at least one month to write your letter of recommendation. It is helpful for your letter writers to have: your CV (a longer version of a resume), a draft of your personal statement (if required by the program), and any other information that you think will help them write a good letter for you.
- Personal statement
Some programs might require a personal statement where you respond to a specific prompt associated with the type of program you plan on applying to.
Ph.D. programs
Applications for Ph.D. programs tend to be due near the end of the autumn semester (late November, early December). Below are some requirements for applying for Ph.D programs:
- Course requirements
Some programs might require a specific type of undergraduate degree to apply for their Ph.D. program.
- Standardized tests
Ph.D. programs typically require students to take the GRE. Some programs might require GRE subject tests. It is good practice to complete the GRE during the summer semester before you apply for your Ph.D. programs.
- Letters of recommendation
Most programs require 3 letters of recommendation. It is good practice to give your letter writers at least one month to write your letter of recommendation. It is helpful for your letter writers to have: your CV (a longer version of a resume), a draft of your personal statement (if required by the program), and any other information that you think will help them write a good letter for you.
- Personal statement
Many programs require a personal statement where you respond to a specific prompt associated with the type of program you plan on applying to. The personal statement is intended to provide you with an opportunity to elaborate on your research interests, why you’re excited about the Ph.D. program, your long-term career goals, and what skills you possess that will be a good match for your program.
Professional programs
Applications for professional programs (e.g., medical school, dental school, veterinary school, etc.) tend to be due over the summer. You might see the term “rolling applications” or “rolling deadline”. This indicates that faculty plan to begin reviewing graduate applications while they are still accepting applications. Generally, it’s a good idea to submit your application as early as possible in these situations. Below are some requirements for applying for professional programs:
- Course requirements
Many institutions do not offer “pre-med/dentistry/vet/pharmacy” majors. This means that it is your job to identify the specific course requirements for the type of program you’re interested in. Institutions should list their course requirements on their websites.
- Standardized tests
Professional programs typically require specific standardized tests. It is good practice to complete the standardized test during the spring semester before you apply for your professional programs.
- Letters of recommendation
Most programs require 3 letters of recommendation. It is good practice to give your letter writers at least one month to write your letter of recommendation. It is helpful for your letter writers to have: your resume, a draft of your personal statement (if required by the program), and any other information that you think will help them write a good letter for you.
- Personal statement
Many programs require a personal statement where you respond to a specific prompt associated with the type of program you plan on applying to. The personal statement is intended to provide you with an opportunity to demonstrate why you’re excited about your professional program and what skills you possess that will be a good match for your program.
Paying for your Ph.D. program
- The National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship (GRFP)
NSF's GRFP recognizes and supports individuals early in their graduate training in STEM fields. If a student is awarded the NSF GRFP, they are funded for three years of their Ph.D. program. Students can apply two times to receive this fellowship: once before starting a graduate program (as you’re applying for your graduate program) and once during graduate school (either your first or second year). To learn more about the NSF GRFP and download their informational presentation.
- LSAMP Bridge to the Doctorate
The bridge to the doctorate is a program that offers funding for the first two years of a student’s Ph.D. program (~30,000 a year). Students who engaged in LSAMP during their undergraduate career are eligible to apply.
Typically, students can apply for the bridge to the doctorate program after applying to a STEM Ph.D. program at an institution that offers the bridge to the doctorate program.
Presently, many different institutions across the United States offer bridge to the doctorate programs. View a current map.