Applying to Graduate Programs Related to Psychology...

Here are some tips and suggestions for time-frame on applying to graduate programs. There will be some variation depending on the type of program to which you are applying.

When to start thinking about grad school?

? As soon as you think you might be interested!
? Start asking questions of your faculty and also alumni who may have gone to grad school.
? Consider doing an independent study project, practicum, psychology-related internship or summer job.

When to take GRE’s?

? It would be best to begin practicing in the spring of your Junior year.
? Buy practice tests.
? If you need to take the Subject Test for Psychology, get copies of standardized multiple choice tests (test banks) and an Intro Psych text for review.
? It is best to take the test over the summer before your Senior year.
? You should definitely take the test in October of your Senior year if you could not take it over the summer.
? You may need to retake the exam in November.
? Remember that both test results will show up when you have them sent to the schools.
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When to apply?

? Begin investigating programs in the spring of Junior year/summer before Senior year (if not earlier!).
? Investigate the type of program, faculty interests, requirements, etc.
? Much of this information is available now online; however, the APA Graduate Manual includes specific information about requirements as well.
? Gather application materials in August before your Senior year (usually the new materials come out at that time).
? Begin working on your personal statement, gathering transcripts, contact professors for recommendation letters in September.
? Send applications in October – December.

What to include in your application?

? Include a cover letter with your application: what program you are applying to, when you plan to enter the program, the contents of your application.
? Include a personal statement - it should include mostly academic points (not personal things about you – they know you probably work hard otherwise you wouldn’t be applying): What have you done that makes you attractive to their program? What research interests do you have (maybe identify faculty/research you are interested in)? What are your career goals? (In other words, try to be as concrete as possible.)
? If you have any poor grades in psychology, take this opportunity to explain it and how you have improved you skills since that time.
? Make sure to note any research presentations you have given or papers on which your name appears.
? Highlight any experiences or successes that have shaped your career goals, but don’t make something up!! (again, more academic in nature.)
? In the application materials, check the box indicating that you DECLINED to see your recommendations letters.
? Ask for your recommendation letters to be sent directly to the schools.
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What to do once the applications are out?

? Call the secretary of the program to make sure that your application materials were received in January before the deadline.
? Sit back, relax, and wait.
? Some programs may not inform you until April.
? Call the first week of April to inquire about the status of your application if you have not heard anything.
? Make a decision and notify the programs by April 15.

Other things to think about…

? Research is important (if you are considering a Ph.D).
? Independent study is important.
? Apply early – shows initiative and they may take a better look at you.
? Ask professors very far in advance for recommendations.
? Automatically give professors a copy of your transcript, activities while at the University of Idaho (mostly of an academic nature), and statement of intentions for grad school.
? Also provide addressed and stamped envelopes for these recommendations (they will be sent faster!).
? Have at least one of your professors review your personal statement before sending it off.
? Include a list of relevant activities with your application materials (e.g., independent study, research, practicum, jobs, volunteer work – all relevant to psychology).