{"id":529,"date":"2023-09-13T14:57:31","date_gmt":"2023-09-13T14:57:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/center-for-career-and-professional-development\/?page_id=529"},"modified":"2026-04-17T14:31:10","modified_gmt":"2026-04-17T14:31:10","slug":"grad-school","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/center-for-career-and-professional-development\/grad-school\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Prepare &amp; Apply for Graduate School"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"pl-529\"  class=\"panel-layout\" ><div id=\"pg-529-0\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-0-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-0-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-gold-buttons panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-gold-buttons so-widget-smcm-gold-buttons-default-d75171398898-529\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><nav class=\"smcm-gold-buttons\"><ul><li><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#what-is-grad-school\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-circle-question\"><\/i>What Is Grad School?<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#should-i-go\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-person-circle-question\"><\/i>Should I Go?<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#find-programs\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-magnifying-glass\"><\/i>Find Programs<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/li><li><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#choose-programs\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-signs-post\"><\/i>Choose Programs <\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#application-materials\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-folder-open\"><\/i>Application Materials<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#timeline\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-clock\"><\/i>Timeline<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/li><li><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#more-help\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-handshake-angle\"><\/i>More Help<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/academics\/health-sciences-advisory-committee\/\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-people-group\"><\/i>Health Professions Advising<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-right smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-1\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-529-1\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-1-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-1-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"1\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-529\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768916344_25558ab285_o-scaled.jpg\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768916344_25558ab285_o-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768916344_25558ab285_o-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768916344_25558ab285_o-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768916344_25558ab285_o-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768916344_25558ab285_o-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768916344_25558ab285_o-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768916344_25558ab285_o-272x182.jpg 272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" alt=\"\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-529-1-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-1-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-headline panel-first-child\" data-index=\"2\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-headline so-widget-sow-headline-default-6dc9fbd96e10-529 so-widget-fittext-wrapper\"\n\t\t\t data-fit-text-compressor=\"0.85\"\n\t\t><div class=\"sow-headline-container \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"sow-headline\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<b>QUICK<\/b> LINKS\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-529-1-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-last-child\" data-index=\"3\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><h2><a href=\"#what_is\"><b>What is graduate school?<\/b><\/a><\/h2>\n<h2><a href=\"#should_i_go\"><b>Should I go to graduate school?<\/b><\/a><\/h2>\n<h2><a href=\"#find\"><b>How do I find a graduate program?<\/b><\/a><\/h2>\n<h2><a href=\"#pick\"><b>How do I pick the right school for me?<\/b><\/a><\/h2>\n<h3>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0<a href=\"#how_many\"><b>How many programs should I apply for?<\/b><\/a><\/h3>\n<h3>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0<a href=\"#accreditation\"><b>What is accreditation?<\/b><\/a><\/h3>\n<h3>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0<a href=\"#tracking\"><b>Tracking spreadsheet<\/b><\/a><\/h3>\n<h2><a href=\"#materials\"><b>What materials do graduate schools consider?<\/b><\/a><\/h2>\n<h2><a href=\"#timeline\"><b>What is the application timeline?<\/b><\/a><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-2\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-2-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-2-0-0\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"4\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><section id=\"what_is\"><\/section><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-3\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div id=\"what-is-grad-school\" class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-529-3\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-3-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-3-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-headline panel-first-child\" data-index=\"5\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-headline so-widget-sow-headline-default-eefec6966851-529 so-widget-fittext-wrapper\"\n\t\t\t data-fit-text-compressor=\"0.85\"\n\t\t><div class=\"sow-headline-container \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"sow-headline\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<b>WHAT IS<\/b> GRADUATE SCHOOL?\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-529-3-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-last-child\" data-index=\"6\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Graduate school is an opportunity to advance your education in your specific field of interest after you complete your bachelor\u2019s degree. The content and length of graduate school programs vary depending on the school or field of study, but a full time graduate program typically takes 2\u20134 years of study. There are a variety of graduate programs available, including the following examples.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Masters degrees<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Typically 1.5\u20132 years.\u00a0<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Examples:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Master of Art, (M.A.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Master of Science, (M.S.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Master of Fine Arts, (M.F.A.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Master of Business Administration, (MBA)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Doctoral degrees<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Typically 4\u20136 years.\u00a0<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Examples:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Juris doctor (J.D.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Doctor of medicine (M.D.)\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Doctor of dental surgery (D.D.S.)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Graduate certificates<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Typically 6\u201312 months.\u00a0<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Examples:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Data Analytics Certificate<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">International Relations Certificate<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-529-3-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-3-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"7\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-529\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768638836_08c77a73d2_o-Edit-scaled.jpg\" width=\"1866\" height=\"2560\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768638836_08c77a73d2_o-Edit-scaled.jpg 1866w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768638836_08c77a73d2_o-Edit-219x300.jpg 219w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768638836_08c77a73d2_o-Edit-746x1024.jpg 746w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768638836_08c77a73d2_o-Edit-768x1054.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768638836_08c77a73d2_o-Edit-1120x1536.jpg 1120w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52768638836_08c77a73d2_o-Edit-1493x2048.jpg 1493w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1866px) 100vw, 1866px\" alt=\"\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-4\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-4-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-4-0-0\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"8\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><section id=\"should_i_go\"><\/section><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-5\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div id=\"should-i-go\" class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-529-5\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-5-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-5-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child\" data-index=\"9\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-529\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/54181837494_27cfc1818d_c.jpg\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/54181837494_27cfc1818d_c.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/54181837494_27cfc1818d_c-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/54181837494_27cfc1818d_c-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/54181837494_27cfc1818d_c-768x768.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" title=\"Photo by Chuck Steenburgh\" alt=\"\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-529-5-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-last-child\" data-index=\"10\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><h2><b>Questions to ask yourself<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">During your first year and sophomore year ask yourself the following questions:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Why am I interested?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">When do I want to go?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Reasons to go right away?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Reasons to wait?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What personal experiences do I have that fueled my interest in [choice of field]?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Do I have practical experience with [field] that:<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Has helped me commit myself to the challenge of fulfilling the necessary coursework required for a graduate program?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Will strengthen my application to graduate work by giving me hands-on experience and demonstrate that I am fully aware of what the career I have chosen involves?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Am I committed to strive for a GPA of 3.5 or higher?\u00a0<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li>The minimum GPA required for graduate school varies by program and school, but is typically around a 3.0-4.0 scale.\u00a0However, successful applicants to competitive programs often have GPAs in the 3.5\u20134.0 range.\u00a0STEM fields may have higher GPA expectations than other disciplines.<span class=\"UV3uM\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Make sure to look into several programs and decide which is the best fit for you. Start building your support network and cultivate relationships with those that can help you with the application process.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-529-5-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-5-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-headline panel-first-child\" data-index=\"11\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-headline so-widget-sow-headline-default-eefec6966851-529 so-widget-fittext-wrapper\"\n\t\t\t data-fit-text-compressor=\"0.85\"\n\t\t><div class=\"sow-headline-container \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"sow-headline\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<b>SHOULD I GO<\/b> TO GRADUATE SCHOOL?\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-529-5-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text\" data-index=\"12\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><h2><b><i>Yes, if \u2026<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It will it help me qualify for promotions or higher-paying positions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It will it help me build knowledge, skills, and experience I need for my future career<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It will prepare me to change careers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It is required for the job I want<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It is clear that grad school will give me a positive return on my investment\u2014is it worth the money, time and effort?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>If continuing your educations fulfills one or more of the above, grad school may be a great choice for you!<\/b><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>No, if \u2026<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">I want grad school to help me figure out what career I want to pursue <\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">You should have a specific career goal in mind before you apply for grad school\u2014they will ask this on the application.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">I want to delay career decisions or life responsibilities <\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delays won\u2019t make life easier; without clear goals it\u2019s harder to stay and graduate; and you may end up with debt.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>If you are considering continuing your education for the above reasons, grad school may not <\/b><b>be the best choice for you.<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><div id=\"panel-529-5-1-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-last-child\" data-index=\"13\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-529\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/54187965543_fbbb9e4fbc_c.jpg\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/54187965543_fbbb9e4fbc_c.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/54187965543_fbbb9e4fbc_c-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/54187965543_fbbb9e4fbc_c-768x432.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" title=\"Photo by Chuck Steenburgh\" alt=\"\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-6\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-6-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-6-0-0\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"14\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><section id=\"find\"><\/section><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-7\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div id=\"find-programs\" class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-529-7\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-7-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-7-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-headline panel-first-child\" data-index=\"15\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-headline so-widget-sow-headline-default-6dc9fbd96e10-529 so-widget-fittext-wrapper\"\n\t\t\t data-fit-text-compressor=\"0.85\"\n\t\t><div class=\"sow-headline-container \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"sow-headline\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tHOW DO I <b>FIND<\/b> A GRADUATE PROGRAM?\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-529-7-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-last-child\" data-index=\"16\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">To find a graduate program that fits your needs, try one of the following:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>1. Run a Google search that matches your interests. For example:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u201cmaster\u2019s degrees in child psychology\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u201cdoctorate in marine biology\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u201cmaster of fine arts\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>2. Try <a href=\"https:\/\/www.profellow.com\/\">ProFellow<\/a>,\u00a0 a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.profellow.com\/sign-up\/\">free database<\/a><\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong> of funding for graduate school programs.<\/strong> You can use it to search and bookmark more than 2,500 fellowships and fully funded graduate programs. They also publish <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.profellow.com\/tag\/fellowship-application-tips\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">articles with application tips<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> written by fellows, features and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.profellow.com\/3-questions\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">interviews with current and former fellows,<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> and fellowship <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.profellow.com\/announcements\/open-calls-for-applications-fellowships-grants-and-fully-funded-graduate-programs\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">calls for applications<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Programs include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Undergraduate: <\/b>Undergraduate fellowships, summer fellowships<\/li>\n<li><b>Masters: <\/b>Fully funded masters, master\u2019s fellowships<\/li>\n<li><b>Doctorate: <\/b>Fully funded PhDs, doctoral fellowships<\/li>\n<li><b>Professional\/post-doctorate: <\/b>Professional fellowships, post-doctoral fellowships<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">You can use search filters to refine your search and results.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">For more information on finding fellowships on ProFellow, see their article on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.profellow.com\/tips\/how-to-find-fully-funded-graduate-programs-in-any-discipline\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How to Find Fully Funded Graduate Programs in Any Discipline<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>3. See <a href=\"https:\/\/www.princetonreview.com\/grad-school-search\">The Princeton Review<\/a><\/strong><span><strong>, another great resource for finding graduate schools and programs.<\/strong> You can search by name, state, program, enrollment size, institution type, or featured schools. Creating a free account lets you save your favorite schools, and request information directly from your school of interest.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-529-7-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-7-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"17\" ><div class=\"so-rounded panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-529-7-1-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-529\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.profellow.com\/\"\n\t\t\ttarget=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" \t\t>\n\t\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/Grad-School-ProFellow-screenshot.png\" width=\"750\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/Grad-School-ProFellow-screenshot.png 750w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/Grad-School-ProFellow-screenshot-281x300.png 281w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" title=\"Grad School &#8211; ProFellow screenshot\" alt=\"Screenshot of the ProFellow website\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-8\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-8-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-8-0-0\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"18\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><section id=\"pick\"><\/section><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-9\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div id=\"choose-programs\" class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-529-9\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-9-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-9-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"19\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-529\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/53959281708_698811b11d_c.jpg\" width=\"799\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/53959281708_698811b11d_c.jpg 799w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/53959281708_698811b11d_c-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/53959281708_698811b11d_c-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/53959281708_698811b11d_c-272x182.jpg 272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" alt=\"\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-529-9-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-9-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-headline panel-first-child\" data-index=\"20\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-headline so-widget-sow-headline-default-eefec6966851-529 so-widget-fittext-wrapper\"\n\t\t\t data-fit-text-compressor=\"0.85\"\n\t\t><div class=\"sow-headline-container \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"sow-headline\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tHOW DO I <b>PICK THE RIGHT SCHOOL<\/b> FOR ME?\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-529-9-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-last-child\" data-index=\"21\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><p>To find a grad school that best fits your needs, start by considering:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>If the program is tailored to your interests and preferences<\/li>\n<li>The application requirements<\/li>\n<li>Cost of tuition\/financial aid opportunities<\/li>\n<li>Program resources<\/li>\n<li>Location of school<\/li>\n<li>Reputation and accreditation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Though choosing to pursue your graduate studies is often a great step in furthering both your academic experience and your overall career, it is not necessarily a <em>required<\/em> step on your career path. Review our <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1xUdL3Xb2Ae6w43zHe_yex3WYmGed_bfBuNC1SRkxfsY\/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.4woygpe21dtv\">Choosing the Right Graduate Program <\/a>guide for more in-depth advice on choosing your graduate program.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-10\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-10-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-10-0-0\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"22\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><section id=\"materials\"><\/section><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-11\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div id=\"application-materials\" class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-529-11\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-11-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-11-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"23\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-529\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/53959357034_06bddfdf84_c.jpg\" width=\"799\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/53959357034_06bddfdf84_c.jpg 799w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/53959357034_06bddfdf84_c-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/53959357034_06bddfdf84_c-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2025\/01\/53959357034_06bddfdf84_c-272x182.jpg 272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" alt=\"\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-529-11-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-11-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-headline panel-first-child\" data-index=\"24\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-headline so-widget-sow-headline-default-eefec6966851-529 so-widget-fittext-wrapper\"\n\t\t\t data-fit-text-compressor=\"0.85\"\n\t\t><div class=\"sow-headline-container \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"sow-headline\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<b>WHAT MATERIALS<\/b> DO GRADUATE SCHOOLS CONSIDER?\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-529-11-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-last-child\" data-index=\"25\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Graduate schools want to be confident that you will complete their program <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">and<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> make them proud as an alum. They want to see that you have clear academic and career goals, and that you are genuinely interested in their specific school and program. Key factors they consider include your:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Personal statement <\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">CV<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Transcripts<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Standardized tests<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Research experience<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Letters of recommendation<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Interview<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Review our <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1jvEUCewBKpr1BcLVlqLVZwy3Vv9BHL85B-NiwKuKzBI\/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.q7b7vqwenzcy\">Graduate Program Materials<\/a> guide for more detailed information on application materials and steps to admission!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-12\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-12-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-12-0-0\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"26\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><section id=\"timeline\"><\/section><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-13\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-13-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-13-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-headline panel-first-child\" data-index=\"27\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-headline so-widget-sow-headline-default-6dc9fbd96e10-529 so-widget-fittext-wrapper\"\n\t\t\t data-fit-text-compressor=\"0.85\"\n\t\t><div class=\"sow-headline-container \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"sow-headline\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tWHAT IS THE APPLICATION <b>TIMELINE<\/b>?\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-529-13-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-last-child\" data-index=\"28\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Start early to increase your chances of being admitted. Many graduate programs consider applications as they are submitted, while other programs wait until the final deadline to begin reviewing applications. Many program deadlines are 7\u20139 months before the start date, meaning that you will have a total of 6\u20139 months to prepare your materials. Remember that motivation and punctuality are very important.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Below is a sample schedule to prepare and apply for graduate school. This template leaves time to craft a great application and resolve unforeseen issues with time to spare. The earlier you start, the better prepared you will be to successfully apply. Adjust the sample timeline to work best for your plans.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-529-13-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-13-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"29\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-529\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52101628170_c700edcf06_o.jpg\" width=\"1600\" height=\"2000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52101628170_c700edcf06_o.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52101628170_c700edcf06_o-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52101628170_c700edcf06_o-819x1024.jpg 819w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52101628170_c700edcf06_o-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2023\/09\/52101628170_c700edcf06_o-1229x1536.jpg 1229w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" alt=\"\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-14\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-14-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-14-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"30\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><h2><b><i>Sample timeline<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<h3><b>Freshman Year: Summer<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Academics<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Ask your professors and advisor what courses they recommend you take to not only graduate on time, but also to prepare for graduate school.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Sophomore Year: Summer\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Decisions<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Explore schools and programs; fill out your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/1Id-L_XnN8PQ-nM8q0w9V_olOjO2knKwhPfS_Kepqgyk\/copy\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Grad School Decision Chart<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Connect with faculty, professionals, and current graduate students in your fields of interest for informational interviews and job shadowing opportunities. (Job shadowing involves you going to the work site to follow an employee to see the work firsthand.)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Experience<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Get a position as an intern, employee, or volunteer in a relevant field.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Junior Year: Fall<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Decisions<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Attend graduate school fairs and information sessions to learn more about each program.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Request program information and materials.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Connect with current students at your prospective schools to hear about their experiences.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Academics<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Maintain a strong GPA.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Junior Year: Spring<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Standardized tests<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Take a practice version of any standardized test(s) you will need\u2014the GRE, GMAT, LSAT, etc. Your score will help you know how much you need to study before the actual test.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Gather study materials for each test.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Recommendations<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Build relationships with professors.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Consider who could write recommendation letters.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Ask professors to recommend good programs\u2014they may even help you make some connections.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Tracking<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Make note of admission requirements and deadlines.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Junior Year: Summer<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Writing<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Begin drafting your personal statement for each program you\u2019re interested in.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Decisions<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Visit schools of interest, if possible.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Narrow down your list and decide which programs you will apply for.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Finalize your list of prospective schools, and familiarize yourself with the professors who share your research interests at each school.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Experience<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Obtain job\/internship; volunteer or job shadow in a related field.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0Standardized tests<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Consider taking an entrance exam prep course.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Register for entrance exam tests.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Study for the entrance exam.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If you are able to do so, and feel you could use the extra help, sign up for a test prep course for any standardized tests you need. In person or online tutoring are both great options.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Register and take any required or optional tests. The most used test is the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), which has both a general test and several subject tests.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If you are not happy with your scores, sign up to take the test(s) again.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Senior Year: Fall<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0September<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Standardized tests<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Register for the November GRE subject test if your institution requires it.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Recommendations<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Contact those you wish to use as references and ask if they will write letters of recommendation for you.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Writing<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Continue polishing your personal statement for each program.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0October<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong>Transcripts<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\">Request official transcripts from your undergraduate institution. Be sure to keep a paper and PDF copy of your transcripts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Recommendations<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\">Send information to your references to help them as they write your letter: your resume\/CV, LinkedIn profile, and personal statement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong>Connections<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\">Check with the admissions team at your prospective schools and ask whether it is appropriate to contact professors. (Note that some professors do not want to be contacted before you are admitted.)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0November<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong>Writing<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\">Have someone in the field and a few honest friends read over your personal statement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong>Standardized tests<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\">Take the GRE subject test (if required) and ensure your scores will be sent directly to schools.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>\u00a0 \u00a0December<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong>Applications<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\">Complete and submit all grad applications, and keep a copy of each section for your records.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong>Recommendations<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\">Verify that your recommendations have been sent.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Senior Year: Spring<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Receive offers; accept the best one, and decline the others<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Connect with the financial aid office at your new graduate school<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Celebrate!<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-529-15\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div id=\"more-help\" class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-529-15\" ><div id=\"pgc-529-15-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-15-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"31\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-529\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2024\/12\/CCPD-group-pic.jpg\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2024\/12\/CCPD-group-pic.jpg 512w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/133\/2024\/12\/CCPD-group-pic-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" title=\"CCPD group pic\" alt=\"Six adults, three seated on a bench and three standing behind them, pose outdoors on a brick path with greenery and trees in the background.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-529-15-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-529-15-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-headline panel-first-child\" data-index=\"32\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-headline so-widget-sow-headline-default-eefec6966851-529 so-widget-fittext-wrapper\"\n\t\t\t data-fit-text-compressor=\"0.85\"\n\t\t><div class=\"sow-headline-container \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"sow-headline\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tNEED <b>MORE HELP<\/b>?\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-529-15-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text\" data-index=\"33\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><p>We want to help you prepare for the future! Whether you are a St. Mary\u2019s College student or alum, you can meet with our team in person, online, or by phone for help with your graduate school preparation and application\u2014or any other career preparation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><div id=\"panel-529-15-1-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"34\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-button so-widget-sow-button-flat-d8dd834f56c7-529\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"ow-button-base ow-button-align-center\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/center-for-career-and-professional-development\/appointments\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"sowb-button ow-icon-placement-left ow-button-hover\" \t>\n\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<i class=\"fas fa-calendar-alt\"><\/i>&nbsp; Make an appointment\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What is graduate school? Should I go to graduate school? How do I find a graduate program? How do I pick the right school for me? \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0How many programs should I apply for? \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0What is accreditation? \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Tracking spreadsheet What materials do graduate schools consider? What is the application timeline?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":142,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-529","1":"page","2":"type-page","3":"status-publish","5":"entry"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/center-for-career-and-professional-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/529","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/center-for-career-and-professional-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/center-for-career-and-professional-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/center-for-career-and-professional-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/142"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/center-for-career-and-professional-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=529"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/center-for-career-and-professional-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/529\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":921,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/center-for-career-and-professional-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/529\/revisions\/921"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/center-for-career-and-professional-development\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=529"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}