If you'reconsidering graduate studyas your next step, our career coaches can help you think through this important decision and create an action plan. Whether you are interested in obtaining an advanced research degree in the arts and sciences or attending a professional school, we have resources for every step of the application process.

Applying to Law School

Should You Go to Graduate School?

Graduate school is an enriching experience. You advance your learning, gain expertise, and receive specialized training. Before you apply to graduate school, however, you need to examine your reasons. Graduate school is a massive investment of your time and money, and.

The first step in determining whether or not to go to graduate school is to be honest with yourself. Consider these questions:

  • Does your intended career path require advanced study?
  • Does the idea of carrying out independent research excite you?
  • Are you prepared to spend the next two to seven years studying while living on a meager budget, accruing loan debt, or both?
  • Have you thoroughly researched graduate school costs?
  • Can a narrow range of topics sustain your interests for two to seven years?
  • Are you a viable candidate for graduate school? Do you meet the minimum requirements for the programs that interest you?
  • Do you have the career-related work experience that might help you get into graduate school?

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Research Graduate Programs

Where Past ϱ Graduates Have Gone

23%

of the Class of 2020 enrolled in graduate school after graduation

baldwin eagle mascot and student holding up a white board with columbia university written on it

Top Programs

20%

Education

19%

STEM

12%

Business

12%

Law

Select Graduate Schools

Boston College, Harvard University, Yale University, Brown University, Columbia University, Duke University, Georgetown University, University of Chicago, Johns Hopkins University, University of Notre Dame, Stanford University

Outcomes

What Makes a Competitive Candidate?

Graduate programs vary widely in competitiveness. Research will help you determine what graduate programs value most in their potential candidates. Satisfying the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance.A more accurate predictor of acceptance is how you compare with the average qualifications of the current students in the program.

To prepare to be a competitive candidate, focus on the following areas:

  • GPA:Typically a 3.0 is the minimum GPA, however average GPAs of applicants are much higher. Focus on earning good grades, especially in related coursework.
  • Test Scores: Score requirements vary by institution and program. Some programs may place more emphasis on particular sections of the test. You will want to look at the average test scores of current students to understand what will make you a competitive candidate.
  • Experience:Your past experiences (internships, practicums, volunteering, research, etc.) will help you differentiate yourself. Instead of focusing on what will "look good", focus on whatgenuinely interests you.
  • References: Build your relationships with faculty and staff to ensure you will have great letters of recommendation to strengthen your application.
  • Application: Your application brings everything together. Reviewiers are looking for strong writing skills and attention to detail. Make sure you have your personal statement and essays critiqued.

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Prepare to Apply

Information adapted from theGraduate School Guide

Finance Your Education

Graduate school is a major investment in your future. Generally, graduate students fund their educations in several ways:

  • Grants, Scholarships, and Fellowships:Research grants, fellowships, and scholarships can cover all or parts of the cost of attendance and can be awarded by the graduate institution or external organizations and benefactors.
  • Assistantships:These awards can come in the form of stipends and tuition remission, and are often coupled with an on-campus employment experience.
  • Federal Loans:The most common federal loan for graduate school is the PLUS Loan. Federal loans offer much lower interest rates and tend to have more options for repayment. Loans must be paid back after graduating.
  • Private Loans:Do your research before applying for private loans, as they often have higher interest rates and inflexible repayment options.
  • Personal/Family Savings
  • Employment

student holding a white board that says william and mary

Resources

Funding Resources:

Loan Resources:

How the Career Center Can Help

Graduate school is an important step in your career journey. We're here to partner with you throughout the application process. Our office can help you:

  • Determine if graduate school is the best option for you
  • Connect with alumni to discuss their career paths
  • Explore graduate programs
  • Prepare your application materials
  • Evaluate offers

To get started, schedule an appointment to meet with one of our career coaches. Our career exploration coaches can help you narrow down your options if you're exploring multiple paths. Our industry specialists can help you with applying to programs related to a specific discipline.

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