The decision to apply to Graduate School is an important step. The application and decision process can be simplified with the assistance of Career Services, and thorough review of the following information. Early planning can lead to a more successful and rewarding outcome.
Graduate School Facts
How do I begin to search for a graduate school program?
After assessing your interests and abilities, a good starting point is the Peterson's Guide to Graduate and Professional Study which can be found in the Career Library and also on CD-Rom in Fairchild-Martindale. In addition, speak to faculty members and your academic advisor in the area in which you want to pursue. They can offer you a wealth of information about their knowledge on various programs.
How do I go about taking a graduate admission test?
Information booklets (which include registration information) are available in the Career Services Library for the TOEFL, GRE and GMAT. Check out the timetable to see when might be the best time to prepare for an admissions exam. Remember the best three ways to prepare are to practice, practice, and practice exam material, so allow yourself time.
What are grad schools looking for in an applicant?
Your academic record, graduate admissions exam scores, personal essay, letters of reference, and related experience (work, research, volunteer, internship) are all areas which are important to the admissions committee.
What factors should I be looking at in a graduate school program?
Competitiveness, reputation, location, size, program content, facilities, and cost are all factors to consider. In order to make the best decision for yourself, gather as much information as possible through written material, speaking with current students and graduates of a particular program, professionals in the field, and Lehigh faculty.
Is graduate school the right choice for me?
Since graduate school is often very different from one's college education, it is necessary to assess why you want to go to graduate school. Additionally, it is important to research career options and requirements before making the commitment to continue your education. We encourage you to explore and to research, as some fields may not require further education. Careers in healthcare, academia, and research are examples of areas where a graduate degree may be a necessary credential for a particular career.
Choosing to pursue a graduate degree is a serious commitment. You will want to select a program based on your passion and interest on a specific topic, as well as on opportunities for career development and advancement. Deciding to "stay in school" to avoid the "real world" can be a mistake, and should be explored further with a career counselor.
Will a graduate degree advance your career?
Advanced degrees are tools to providing higher incomes, advancement, and responsibility in certain professions. Advanced degrees in business, accounting, and engineering are such examples.
Do you derive personal satisfaction from learning?
Undergrads may choose to go on to graduate school simply because they love to learn.
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Academic Timeline:
Junior Year
- Research areas of interest and programs which reflect these interests.
- Speak to your advisor and professors about various programs.
- Register and prepare for the GRE/GMAT.
Junior Year, Summer
- Take the GRE/GMAT.
- Request application materials.
- Write your application essay and have faculty and/or Career Services review it for you.
- Begin to line up faculty to write letters of reference for you.
Senior Year
- Obtain letters of recommendation.
- Take GRE/GMAT if you have not already done so.
- Complete applications.
- Obtain a credit history on yourself.
- Research and apply to several financial aid options, including various Assistantships, Fellowships, and other forms of aid.
- Speak to current and recent graduates of the schools to which you are applying.
- Prepare for an interview if required.
- Visit schools.
- Observe application deadlines.
- Follow-up on applications.
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Workshops
Workshops on preparing and applying for graduate school are conducted each fall. Check the Career Services workshop and event calendar and Dream Weaver, Career Services weekly e-newsletter for more information.
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