Application Materials

Submitting an application involves several moving parts, especially if applying to multiple programs. Each graduate school generally requests the same information, but be prepared to include statements of purpose, critical essays, admissions test scores, letters of recommendations, transcripts, a resume or CV, and additional materials i.e. portfolio demonstrating relevant work. Remember to be mindful of various deadlines and fees associated with applications, transcripts and testing.

• Application form and fees
• Official transcripts from previous institutions
• Personal statement or statement of purpose, cover letters, or diversity statement
• Resume or CV
• Portfolio or writing samples
• Letters of recommendation
• Standardized test scores, like the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)

Letters of recommendation

We know it can be hard to ask your faculty members to write letters for you. And, they know that when they agree to support you with a letter, they are also agreeing to help with your whole process. There are many academic articles out there that guide students how to ask for faculty mentor guidance and support. Here are two to get you started:

• Requesting Letters of Recommendation (Cornell)
• Asking Faculty for Letters of Recommendation (UW Department of English)

Interviews

Not every graduate program requires an interview as part of the process, but you can still prepare as if they do! Graduate programs use interviews to assess candidates in addition to their application materials. Often they will ask questions including career and professional goals, research interests, and more about you as an individual.

Learning interview techniques and response strategies will you to give you confidence in the answers you provide. Our Career & Internship Center has some incredible resources to start you off strong including mock interview opportunities, common interview questions and how to answer them, and even quiet rooms to reserve for interviews.

Ready to apply?

Check Requirements

• Review deadline(s), application fees, test score requirements, and language requirement (if needed).

Set Up & Plan

• Create application account.
• Add deadlines and reminders to your calendar.
• Make a folder to organize all application materials.

Recommenders

• Ask professors/mentors 1-2 months ahead of deadline.
• Enter their info in portal.
• Send a gentle reminder to them before deadline.

Transcripts & Tests

• Order/send official transcripts.
• Schedule/submit GRE, TOEFL, or other scores (if needed).

Write Materials

• Statement of Purpose & supplemental essays.
• Resume/CV.
• Writing sample/portfolio (if required).

Complete Application

• Fill all fields.
• Upload documents.
• Pay fee or request waiver.

Submit & Confirm

• Submit before deadline.
• Save confirmation email.
• Track recommenders & test scores until marked “received" or "completed".

After Submission

• Watch for updates/interview invitations.
• Send any final grade or resume/CV updates, if allowed.