The application process typically involves submitting the following items: transcripts of work completed at other schools; GRE (Graduate Record Exam) scores; essays that respond to the program’s specific questions; and letters of recommendation. Some schools require additional application materials or procedures. For example, a student applying to a Master’s of Music program will probably be required to audition. A students applying to a Master’s of English program will be asked to submit a portfolio of their best writing. Students from foreign countries may also be required to submit TOEFL (Test of English Fluency) scores. After a committee has reviewed a student’s application materials, they may invite him or her to the school for an interview. Alternatively, they may arrange a telephone interview. Keep these points in mind when preparing your admissions essays:

• It is essential that your application essays are of high quality. Applicants should allow themselves plenty of time to ponder the school’s questions, write and rewrite their responses, and proofread. Proofreading is extremely important. It may be helpful to read your essay out loud.

• Make sure that your essays are personal. The faculty will be spending at least a year in your company, and they want to spend time with a person who reveals their personality. By making the essay personal, you have a better chance of making it interesting too.

• Use the essays as an opportunity to share information that the committee doesn’t already have elsewhere. For example, they already have your test scores. Use this as a chance to share relevant life experiences and to present yourself as a serious scholar.

• Be sure to answer the question and provide evidence or details to support your response.

Here are some issues to consider in regards to letters of recommendation:

• Graduate admissions committees may take letters of recommendation very seriously. It is therefore important that the prospective graduate student cultivates relationships with professors during their undergraduate experience or maintains a positive relationship with their employer. The letters of recommendation should be written by professionals who are well-acquainted with the academic area. They should be qualified to evaluate the applicant as a potential graduate student.

• It is best to request letters of recommendation at least six weeks before your deadline. Since the people writing your recommendation letters will be highly accomplished, they will have many other responsibilities to attend to.

• Applicants usually do not see their letters of recommendation. The person who writes the letter will generally enclose it in an envelope and sign their name across the seal.

HOW MANY SCHOOLS SHOULD I APPLY TO? Applying to graduate school can be costly. Some applications require a $50 fee, for example. However, some programs do not entail paying any fee. Since graduate schools can be very competitive, it is advisable to apply to many schools. A good starting point is five schools. These would include two schools that will probably accept you, two that are less likely, and one that is a long shot. If you select schools wisely – that is, by finding programs that truly fit who you are – and if you complete your applications with care, chances are good that you will become a graduate student. You will be well on your way to a new world of opportunities.

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