CHHS Student Services

Graduate School planning

Curious about your major or graduate school? Start here!

graduate school application timeline

Do you want to apply to graduate or professional school? Start preparing now! Below you'll find a general timeline that presents the basics of applying to graduate school. It is your responsibility to check for specific application deadlines and requirements for each graduate school of interest.  

FIRST THREE YEARS OF COLLEGE

  • Start researching graduate programs. 
  • Become familiar with centralized application services, if applicable (PTCASCASPAOTCASCSDCASATCAS, etc.).
  • Learn about admission testing requirements and take a practice test, if appropriate (GREMCATLSATGMAT, etc.).
  • Start shadowing, if applicable.
  • Work with your advisor to be sure any specific requirements are included in your plan of study.
  • Meet with faculty members to discuss programs.

LATE SPRING AND SUMMER FOLLOWING JUNIOR YEAR

  • Contact graduate programs directly for information and check each school's website.
  • Confirm any specific program requirements on centralized application services, if applicable.
  • Research funding opportunities including assistantships, scholarships, and support for specific populations (e.g. veterans, under-represented groups).
  • Take required graduate admission tests.
  • Budget for upcoming nonrefundable application fees.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER OF SENIOR YEAR

  • Take or retake graduate admissions tests, as needed.
  • Finalize submissions to centralized application services.
  • Submit supplemental applications directly to programs, as needed.
  • Request letters of recommendation.
  • Draft application essay or statement of purpose.
  • Maintain good grades.
  • Submit FAFSA.

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER OF SENIOR YEAR

  • Finalize your personal statement, if not already completed.
  • All applications should be submitted, if not already finished.
  • Apply for assistantships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities.
  • Prepare for campus interviews.
  • Always write thank-you notes following interviews.

SPRING OF SENIOR YEAR, SUMMER

  • Notify other programs of your decision once accepted.
  • Make housing arrangements.
  • Schedule to attend graduate student orientation and any other training programs.
  • Email CHHSAdvising@utoledo.edu.  We want to know where our Rockets go!
Last Updated: 8/30/23