Getting into Grad School: 5 Steps to Admission

There’s no shortage of reasons to earn a graduate degree. From the potential salary increase and new career opportunities to becoming an expert in your field, grad school can pay off in some major ways. In fact, the average annual salary for an individual with a bachelor’s degree is $64,000 while the average salary for a professional with a doctorate is $100,000 annually. And besides the tangible benefits, there are also plenty of intangible benefits like the satisfaction of being able to contribute to your field in a meaningful way and developing a deep understanding of the subject you’re most passionate about.

However, getting into grad school may require a bit more work than was necessary for your undergrad degree. Choosing the right degree path for your field and enrolling in the perfect program for your ideal career can take some research, not to mention the admissions process. Between applications, letters of intent, and the admissions interview, earning your spot in grad school doesn’t come without effort. Discover the steps you can take to make the road to grad school smooth sailing and get tips and expert advice for gaining admissions to the program you’ve been eyeing.

Step 1

Choose Your Grad School Path

Each student’s journey to a doctorate will be different. Whether you’re fresh out of an undergraduate program or a seasoned professional with a master’s degree, your top priority is figuring out how to get underway on your next degree in a timely and affordable way.

Keep reading to explore different paths to earning your PhD and consider the factors that make an option the right choice for you.

Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD)

This research-heavy academic track includes coursework that ultimately leads to original research and a dissertation. While not always the case, many earning PhDs go on to work in academia, tackling professor roles while continuing to conduct research in their field.

These programs traditionally require several years of coursework followed by researching and writing a degree-culminating dissertation. A PhD usually takes four to six years to complete, though students with master’s degrees in related fields often can graduate more quickly. For example, a traditional or online PhD in psychology can take up to seven years but can take as little as five years for students who already possess a master’s degree in psychology or a closely related subject.

A PhD could be right for you if…

You want a career in academia and enjoy teaching. All tenure-track positions at colleges and universities require a PhD.

You have a passion for research and want to keep up with trends in your area of expertise.

First steps…

Make sure a practical doctorate will mean vertical movement, including more salary or responsibility once you graduate.

Look at your schedule. Will you have time to go to school while working? Many professional doctorate degrees are offered online.

Review prospective schools and speak with professionals in your field to get a feel for programs that could be a solid fit.

Practical Doctorate (e.g., DrPH, DSW, etc.)

While a PhD is the most recognizable doctorate, academic areas such as social work, public health, and nursing offer professional doctorates that enhance your knowledge and skills, expand your career options, and increase your pay. These degrees are often reserved for individuals working in the field. Many professional doctorates are offered online and allow students to complete courses while working, allowing them to utilize new knowledge in real time. For instance, a full-time, online DrPH program can be finished in just four years meaning professionals don’t have to juggle courses with work for a full 5-7 years.

A practical doctorate could be right for you if…

You have years of experience and want to enhance your professional skills.

You’re interested in operations and management more than teaching and writing and want to hone the skills to expand those career options.

You’re interested in skills that lead to leadership roles in your field.

First steps…

Make sure a practical doctorate will mean vertical movement, including more salary or responsibility once you graduate.

Look at your schedule. Will you have time to go to school while working? Many professional doctorate degrees are offered online.

Review prospective schools and speak with professionals in your field to get a feel for programs that could be a solid fit.

Graduate Certificate

Graduate certificates offer a practical way to enter a new field or enhance your knowledge within your area of expertise—plus they’re flexible and relatively affordable. Rather than focusing on a broad curriculum, graduate certificates take a close look at relevant topics and often focus on leadership skills.

A graduate certificate could be right for you if…

You want to expand your professional knowledge while gaining the skills for leadership roles.

You have a degree but want to change course or start a new career.

You want to supplement a previous degree with new knowledge to enhance your career prospects.

First steps…

Earn a bachelor’s degree.

Explore programs and talk to others in the field to find a program that meets your academic and career goals.

Determine if you want to attend in person or online. Online programs allow you the flexibility to work while completing your academic requirements.

Master’s Degree

A master’s degree requires students to engage with rigorous coursework and research. These programs traditionally take about two years to complete and often lead to career advancement. While a graduate certificate provides targeted, career-boosting knowledge, a master’s degree keeps your academic future open. Individuals earning a master’s degree can move on to a PhD and utilize credits earned, cutting down on the time to earn their doctorate. Though you may be able to earn a PhD without a master’s degree first.

A graduate certificate could be right for you if…

You are passionate about an area of research and want to invest in your academic and professional future.

You want to continue academic pursuits but aren’t sure if a PhD program is right for you.

You want to earn a PhD but have an undergraduate degree in an unrelated field.

First steps…

Do your research and find programs that mirror your academic and career goals.

Meet with faculty and staff to see if a program is a good fit for you—and if you’re a good fit for the program.

Consider the cost and assess your economic situation and funding opportunities.

Step 2

Find Your Program

When embarking on your search for the best academic program, there’s a sizeable list of questions to consider. Whether you’re weighing career goals and financial concerns or admission requirements and faculty credentials, taking the time to assess your questions is a vital step in the process. Keep reading as we address some common questions for prospective graduate students.

Will this program help me hit my career goals?

When searching for the academic program that best fits your needs, you’ll want to have a solid understanding of your career goals. Once you have a clear idea about those goals, take the time to ensure that a potential program aligns with your long-term objectives.

Do I meet the admissions requirements?

When applying to graduate programs it’s helpful to have realistic expectations while evaluating how your prospects match up with admissions requirements. While schools require applications, transcripts, and resumes to try to predict your academic performance, the process involves significant intangibles such as your personality, dedication, and passion for the field.

Does the faculty impress me?

A prospective program may look good on paper, but the faculty is what will make your academic experience. In many cases faculty members work closely with you and take on mentorship roles. If your program requires a dissertation, you’ll work with a faculty member who has expertise in your area of research.

What kind of facilities are available?

The facilities that schools provide have varying impacts on academic programs. For degrees in the sciences, access to cutting-edge laboratories will undoubtedly play a role in determining if a school is a good choice. The strength of a school’s library and research facilities may also influence your decision to enroll. Plus, some students prefer schools that offer modern gyms and dining options as well.

Is the location right for me?

For some students, moving to a big city might be a deal-breaker, while others benefit personally and academically from access to big-city amenities. For working students established in their career, a big move could prove problematic. As a result, an online program might be the right choice, offering the flexibility to complete academic requirements from your current location.

What’s the student life like?

For students interested in taking advantage of an active social life on campus, sports, student organizations, and other activities help prospective learners determine if a school is a good fit. Online degrees might not be the best choice if you thrive when engaging with an active campus community.

Can I afford the fees?

Graduate school often comes with a hefty price tag, and if you can’t secure institutional funding, grants, or scholarships, some programs may be prohibitively expensive. When searching for prospective schools, be mindful of your budget and open a line of communication with the financial aid office. Financial aid professionals are an invaluable resource and can help you with any financial concerns you have.

Does the program structure work for me?

The structure of an academic program can also influence your decision on whether or not to enroll. Course options, length of terms, and the overall duration of a program can create serious conflicts, especially for the cost-conscious or working student. It’s also important to ensure that you can earn your PhD while working if you’re not able to take time off to pursue studies full-time.

Step 3

Review and Organize the Prereqs

When preparing to apply to grad schools, reviewing and organizing the necessary prerequisites is a critical step in the process. From collecting letters of recommendation to gathering official transcripts, this information is crucial in admissions decision making. Continue reading to learn more about the ins and outs of the application process.

Before you apply

Once you winnow down your list of prospective schools, creating an admissions checklist is a practical way to ensure that you meet deadlines and supply schools with the necessary materials. When creating your list, note differing requirements for domestic and international students. When requesting letters of recommendation, give individuals enough time to craft a thoughtful letter on your behalf. We’ve listed some essential application information below.

Check deadlines
Review application requirements
Update your resume/CV
Request letters of recommendation with ample time
Request official transcripts from all previous schools
Take or schedule any required standardized test
Prepare and edit an academic writing sample
Craft a personal essay outlining academic and career goals

Submitting your application

Most graduate students submit their applications online. Application portals typically utilize a user-friendly platform and offer step-by-step instructions. While the process is pretty intuitive, if you have any questions be sure to reach out to your prospective school’s admissions office—an incomplete application can result in rejection. These are some common elements of an online application:

Create an account on the school’s online application portal
While you don’t need to complete your application all at once, be sure to save your work
Attach online recommendations
Include your statement of purpose
Attach unofficial transcripts (more on this below)
Report standardized test scores using ETS institutional code
Pay application fee

Official and unofficial transcripts

When completing your application, many programs only require unofficial transcripts for admission decisions. That said, if you get into a program, you’ll need to request and submit official transcripts before you begin your degree.

Submitting your transcripts

Electronic submission

Typically required with other application materials, an electronic transcript is what admission officials review when making their decisions. Most schools request transcripts from all institutions you’ve attended for at least one year. Plus, if you’re currently enrolled in a degree program, schools will want your current transcript, too.

Physical copy submission

If you’re offered admission into a program and plan to attend, you’ll need to supply the school with official transcripts. Whether through a physical copy or a certified electronic transcript, these documents must show completion of required coursework, the degree earned, and the date the degree was conferred.

After submitting your application

While application deadlines vary between schools, many set a December or January deadline with decisions made by the middle of March. Schools that accept applications on a rolling basis typically take around eight weeks to make admission decisions. While you wait for a decision, use the time to plan for a potential move, assess your financial needs, and, if you get in, celebrate your accomplishment.

Receiving your program decision

Once you get into your graduate program, you’ll need to address various administrative tasks. Besides submitting official transcripts and other requested documents, you may need to line up housing, activate your campus email, and review orientation materials. Before school starts, you’ll have to get a school ID and supply proof of immunizations if you plan to attend on-campus classes.

Step 4

Line up Your Funding

Finding financial aid for your doctoral program can mean checking out multiple different funding options. While some institutions offer full funding, most students offset tuition costs through assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, grants, and loans.

Fully funded programs

Depending on the school, some PhD programs are fully funded. This means that not only are your tuition costs taken care of, but you may get a stipend to eliminate your need to focus on anything other than academic work.

Assistantship

These financial opportunities can be teaching-based (TA) or research-based (RA). Assistantships often include tuition remission and can seriously trim your tuition burden. Plus, these roles can include pay in the form of a stipend. TAs and RAs work around 20 hours per week.

Fellowships

Usually merit-based, fellowships are awarded to scholars to help fund their academic work. Fellowships come from various sources, including academic institutions, individuals, and foundations. Fellowships for PhD students are typically reserved for those with a few years of experience under their belt but newer students may still be eligible to receive fellowship funding in certain cases.

Scholarships

Scholarships are an excellent way for graduate students to cut costs. You’ll find a seemingly endless list of organizations that offer varying amounts of funding. When searching for scholarships, consider your field of study, ethnicity, and unique life experiences. Scholarships.com is a great resource when starting your search, as is the Sallie Mae grad school scholarship site.

Grants

Similar to scholarships in that students don’t need to repay them, grants are traditionally need-based and come from various sources. Federal, state, institutional, and organizational grants help graduate students with financial need while supporting specific research initiatives and expanding diversity. This makes scholarships and grants for doctoral students two of the most appealing funding options for their studies.

Student loans

Whether private or federal, student loans are a common way to fund academic pursuits. Graduate students have access to unsubsidized loans through the Department of Education and are eligible to borrow up to $20,500 per year. Like other loans, students must repay their loans upon graduation.

Crowdfunding

A newer trend for securing funding, crowdfunding has become a popular option as it doesn’t involve years of repaying interest-bloated loans. Sites like GoFundMe allow users to set up a free fundraising initiative and access to funds as soon as money starts rolling in. This is a great way to engage a network of supporters who want to see you succeed.

Submitting Your Funding Paperwork

When evaluating your funding options for graduate school, there’s likely a significant amount of paperwork you’ll need to review and complete. For example, in addition to completing loan authorizations, you’ll also need to route fellowships and awards funds to bank accounts or directly to your school.

Most academic programs bill quarterly and require students to pay their balance in full by the first day of the following month. Reach out to those providing funding to ensure that you’ll be able to pay your bills. If conflicts arise, work closely with your school administrative professionals to find out what your options are.

Step 5

Prep for Your Interview

Once you’ve submitted a solid application, preparing for your interview is a vital next step. In the following section, we explore common PhD interview questions, provide both quality and questionable responses, and supply you with a list of tips to help you put your best foot forward.

Common PhD Interview Questions

Why do you want to pursue a PhD?

Do Answer

Do answer specifically, offering examples of personal and academic experiences that led to your interest in pursuing a PhD. This is also a great time to discuss your research interests and let interviewers know how passionate you are about your field.

Don’t Answer

Don’t answer with generalities. Your interviewers know the benefits of earning this degree, so a list of generic benefits won’t allow you to stand out. This is your chance to set yourself apart from the competition.

What about our program made you want to apply?

Do Answer

Show interviewers that you know your stuff. By showcasing your knowledge of the program, you’ll let interviewers know that you are prepared and take the process seriously. This is also an excellent time to offer some tasteful flattery while discussing research conducted by faculty and praising the resources offered.

Don’t Answer

Don’t answer in a way that gives interviewers the impression that you haven’t done your homework. Again, offering generalities doesn’t help your case. While an application provides information about your academic prospects, an interview can highlight the intangible skills that make you a competitive candidate.

Why do you think you’d make a good addition to this program?

Do Answer

Programs only offer so many spots for new students, and they’ll likely be offering you some financial support. As a result, you’ll want them to know that you’re a quality addition to their department. The best answers clearly state your passion, knowledge, and skills and how these will enhance their academic community.

Don’t Answer

The most common mistake is when prospective students just rattle off their accomplishments. If you’ve done your job, interviewers already have that information on a resume or CV. Assume that your competition submits an equally impressive CV—what makes you stand out? Again, intangibles like soft skills, critical thinking, and work ethic can set you apart.

What do you plan to do after earning your PhD?

Do Answer

While underscoring your academic plans is important, interviewers also want to know that you’ve considered goals beyond earning your PhD. This helps in two ways: first, knowing your career goals allows faculty to assist you in reaching those objectives. Secondly, it reveals an additional level of seriousness and is a chance for you to expound on the various career options for your field.

Don’t Answer

Academic programs thrive on the successes of their alumni, and showing up to an interview without career objectives leaves interviewers wondering what you offer their field. Whether it’s a career inside or outside academia, schools often view their graduates as a serious investment; the return on investment is a robust roster of graduates that are the new generation of leaders in their field.

What personal weaknesses do you think will pose the biggest challenge during your studies?

Do Answer

In an academic context, the best examples of personal weaknesses show interviewers that you’re willing to learn and improve. It’s incredibly rare for a student to arrive at graduate school as a fully formed, perfect student. Be honest about some of your weaknesses but frame them as opportunities for personal and academic growth.

Don’t Answer

The “I care too much” or “I work too hard” answer can come across as disingenuous. That said, you don’t want to provide answers that raise any red flags for interviewers. Again, when highlighting a weakness, be sure to follow it up with a concrete plan on how you’d address the weakness.

What benefit can your research bring to this program?

Do Answer

This question offers a chance to highlight some of your best qualities. Provide tangible examples of how your academic interests and skills benefit the program. That said, you’ll also want to display a sense of humility and curiosity—after all, you’re applying because you want to learn.

Don’t Answer

This is another place where generalities do more harm than good. Interviewers honestly want to know what skills you have that will benefit the program. Offering examples without relevant supporting information can make your answers seem weak.

6 Tips for Putting Your Best Foot Forward

An interview can make or break your chances of gaining admission. We’ve laid out some student-tested, admissions-office–approved interview tips to help you nail your interview.

Utilize your interpersonal skills and build a rapport
A friendly demeanor and interpersonal skills not only make for a breezier interview, but they also show interviewers what they can expect from you as a student. This means not only answering questions and talking about yourself but also engaging with interviewers and asking thoughtful questions.

Showcase your personality
An interview is probably the best chance for you to showcase your personality and stand out from the competition. By highlighting why you’re unique, you’re more likely to make an impression on interviewers.

Be confident without being overconfident
Sure, part of an interview is singing your own praises, but don’t go overboard. Coming across as a humble and eager student not only foreshadows your ability to learn, but it also lets interviewers know that you’re easy to work with. While an overconfident applicant may be viewed as a know-it-all, an applicant confident in their desire to learn makes a great impression.

Come prepared with questions for the interview panel
Always come to an interview with specific questions. The interview process isn’t just for folks to judge you; it’s an opportunity for you to determine if a program is a good fit. Your questions will engage interviewers and can result in a more memorable conversation.

Make it clear you’ve researched the program
Don’t hide your excitement. The best applicants not only come with excellent grades and test scores, but they also exude a passion for their area of research. Whether you’re studying economics or ecology, displaying your dedication shows interviewers that you have the energy to keep pushing when academic life gets tough.

Make your passion obvious
Don’t hide your excitement. The best applicants not only come with excellent grades and test scores, but they also exude a passion for their area of research. Whether you’re studying economics or ecology, displaying your dedication shows interviewers that you have the energy to keep pushing when academic life gets tough.