As the fall semester fully sets in, the intense season of grad application commences. The struggles that come with applying or considering the next steps in post-graduate studies is often unawareness. CareerZone is hear to help you when it comes to the general process of grad school applications.
KEEP IN MIND THAT IF YOU HAVEN'T STARTED PREPARING YOUR DOCUMENTS THIS IS YOUR SIGN TO DO SO!! I get it, it is hard but you cannot try to hide (like Homer) from your responsibilities.
Although there might be variations and unique features for some grad programs, below is a general breakdown of the components of graduate school application:
1. Transcripts:
Transcripts can be found through your my.brocku.ca student portal and they cost $16 and you have 3 shares within that copy. Keep in mind, Brock students need to access their transcripts through MyCreds.ca.
2. Statement of Interest/Letter of Intent/Personal Statement:
If you do not know the differences between all those types of papers, do not fear, CareerZone student resources are here! Check out the Post-Grad Studies sections for detailed information on these documents.
3. Test Scores:
GMAT, GRE, MCAT, LSAT, PCAT, DAT, SAT - there are many entrance exams out there. Most of these standardized tests can be taken multiple times throughout the year. Keep in mind, there tends to be a requirement regarding providing it in your application so make sure you are able to acquire it before the due date of your grad application (unless you have a waiver).
4. CV/Resume:
If you are unaware of how the formatting should look, I recommend going to the Student Resources section of the CareerZone website to help you write one. Curriculum Vitae's and Resume's for application to graduate programs are different from applying to jobs, so let us help you customize your documents to an academic audience.
5. Online Application Component:
Look at the school's grad studies websites and also check OUAC for application requirements.
6. Online Payment:
The payment amounts differ depending on the school but payments tend to be submitted through the institution's websites
7. References:
Each program generally explains what information they are looking for from references. It is important to talk to professors as well as individuals tied into your professional career about being a reference for you. Once they agree to it they are either granted a form to fill out online or you might be asked to provide a link to the school admissions platform. It will be your job to follow up with them and ensure that they are being submitted before the due date.
8. Scholarships/ Grad Funding:
Although this is not a necessary step, it definitely helps when it comes to easing the cost of graduate studies. Often times scholarship applications require essays, reference letters etc., so make sure you keep the due dates for these applications in mind (due dates are on the Grad Studies Website)
9. Deadlines:
There are several post graduate programs out there deadlines/due dates will vary. Ensure that you review all institution website for clarity on deadlines to apply. Another place to find this information is on the OUAC website.
Hopefully this information has been helpful. All the best with your endeavours! If you have any other questions about the grad process or any other career related questions, remember that everyone at the CareerZone is here to help!
You got this!
Thank You,
Clem
Career Navigator
