Grad School Application Process

Plan to apply to a number of schools at varying degrees of admission difficulty. "Apply to at least 10 schools: 1-2 long shots, 2-3 borderline schools, 4-5 comfortable schools and 2-3 sure things." (Ware, 1984, p. 11). Your goals for the application process is to 1: have at least one offer and 2: have a choice between two or more programs. Expect to be rejected by several programs, so apply to as many appropriate programs as you can afford.

Send for application materials from a number of schools and then, based on the additional information they provide, decide to which schools you will submit an application. The application usually requires you to have certain individuals write letters of recommendation. Select professors who know you well, e.g. research collaborators, advisors, someone from whom you have had a number of classes. Additionally, advisors at Co-op or summer placements may be appropriate.

Provide your professor with the name and address of the program. Include any forms the program wants the individual providing your recommendation to complete, as well as a summary of your goals for graduate school, and a list of significant accomplishments during your undergraduate years. The department will provide a letterhead envelope but you should address and stamp envelopes for each letter you want us to write.

Have your advisor review your application process and inform her or him where you are applying. The department wants to keep track of where people are applying, where accepted, and where people plan to attend.

Therefore, please keep us informed about the status of your applications.

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