Junior Year/Summer (before senior year or year before you plan to apply)

• Begin researching programs and discussing plans with your academic advisor, interested faculty and Career and Post-Graduate Development advisors
• Identify appropriate programs, visit websites, and narrow down a list of target schools
• Attend schools’ information sessions and/or open houses
• Prepare and sign up for required standardized testing – complete testing, if possible
• Explore opportunities for fellowships, scholarships and other financial assistance
• Strengthen your graduate school application by participating in the UC Summer Fellows program and/or completing an honors project in your major.
• Begin to request strong letters of recommendation from faculty & advisors

Senior Year

September/October:

• Begin work on applications and request official transcripts
• Complete all required testing and write first draft of personal statement
• Follow-up with faculty & advisors and continue to request strong letters of recommendation

November/December:

• Get feedback on personal statement and prepare final draft
• Complete all parts of application and mail or submit online. Keep copies of everything you send
• Begin working on financial aid applications
• Remind letter writers of recommendation deadlines

January/February/March:

• Interview or visit potential schools
• Write thank you notes to those who have met with you and helped you
• Relax and wait for your letters of acceptance
• Confirm your enrollment and make the deposit to your new school
• Celebrate!