Questions to Ask About Graduate School
Essential questions to ask about graduate school to understand the application process, program requirements, and career outcomes to make informed decisions about your advanced education.
1What are the admission requirements and what factors are most important in the selection process?
Click to see why this works
What are the admission requirements and what factors are most important in the selection process?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Critical for understanding what you need to prepare and what the program values most in applicants.
2What is the typical timeline for the program and what are the key milestones?
Click to see why this works
What is the typical timeline for the program and what are the key milestones?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Helps you plan your academic journey and understand the program structure and expectations.
3What funding opportunities are available, including assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships?
Click to see why this works
What funding opportunities are available, including assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Essential for understanding financial support options and planning for the cost of graduate education.
4What research opportunities are available for graduate students?
Click to see why this works
What research opportunities are available for graduate students?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding the research environment and opportunities for hands-on learning and professional development.
5What is the faculty-to-student ratio and how accessible are professors to students?
Click to see why this works
What is the faculty-to-student ratio and how accessible are professors to students?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Helps you understand the learning environment and the level of individual attention and mentorship available.
6What are the career outcomes for graduates and what support is available for job placement?
Click to see why this works
What are the career outcomes for graduates and what support is available for job placement?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Critical for understanding the program's success in preparing students for their desired careers.
7What is the program's approach to coursework and how is it structured?
Click to see why this works
What is the program's approach to coursework and how is it structured?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Helps you understand the academic experience and whether the program structure aligns with your learning preferences.
8What opportunities are available for professional development and networking?
Click to see why this works
What opportunities are available for professional development and networking?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding how the program supports your professional growth and career development.
9What is the program's reputation in the field and how is it viewed by employers?
Click to see why this works
What is the program's reputation in the field and how is it viewed by employers?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Helps you understand the program's standing in your field and its value in the job market.
10What support is available for students with different backgrounds and learning needs?
Click to see why this works
What support is available for students with different backgrounds and learning needs?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding the program's commitment to diversity and inclusion and the support available for all students.
11What are the most important qualities for success in this program?
Click to see why this works
What are the most important qualities for success in this program?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Helps you understand what it takes to succeed and whether you have the necessary skills and qualities.
12What opportunities are available for interdisciplinary study and collaboration?
Click to see why this works
What opportunities are available for interdisciplinary study and collaboration?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows your interest in diverse perspectives and helps you understand the program's approach to interdisciplinary learning.
13What is the program's approach to mentorship and how do students work with faculty?
Click to see why this works
What is the program's approach to mentorship and how do students work with faculty?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding the mentorship opportunities and how students develop relationships with faculty.
14What are the most important trends in the field and how is the program responding?
Click to see why this works
What are the most important trends in the field and how is the program responding?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows your interest in the field's future and helps you understand how the program stays current with developments.
15What opportunities are available for international study or collaboration?
Click to see why this works
What opportunities are available for international study or collaboration?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows your interest in global perspectives and helps you understand the international opportunities available.
16What support is available for students' mental health and well-being?
Click to see why this works
What support is available for students' mental health and well-being?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding the support available for student wellness and mental health during the program.
17What are the most important challenges facing graduate students today?
Click to see why this works
What are the most important challenges facing graduate students today?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Helps you understand the current challenges and how the program addresses them.
18What opportunities are available for teaching and gaining teaching experience?
Click to see why this works
What opportunities are available for teaching and gaining teaching experience?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important if you're interested in teaching and helps you understand the opportunities for gaining teaching experience.
19What support is available for students' transition to graduate school and academic life?
Click to see why this works
What support is available for students' transition to graduate school and academic life?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows your interest in a smooth transition and helps you understand the support available for new students.
20What advice would you give to someone considering this program?
Click to see why this works
What advice would you give to someone considering this program?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Provides valuable insights from the program's perspective and helps you understand what they want you to know about the program.
Navigating Graduate School Decisions
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Researching Graduate Programs
Identify Your Goals
Clarify your academic and career goals and how they align with different graduate programs.
Research Programs
Thoroughly research different programs, their requirements, and their outcomes to find the best fit.
Connect with Alumni
Reach out to program alumni to get their perspective on the program and career outcomes.
Visit Campuses
If possible, visit campuses and attend information sessions to get a feel for the program and environment.
Developing Your Application Strategy
Prepare Early
Start preparing your application materials early to ensure you have time to create strong applications.
Build Relationships
Develop relationships with faculty and current students to strengthen your application and gain insights.
Tailor Applications
Customize your applications for each program to show your specific interest and fit.
Seek Feedback
Get feedback on your application materials from mentors, advisors, and other trusted sources.
Making Your Decision
Compare Options
Compare different programs based on your priorities and what matters most to your goals.
Consider Fit
Think about how well each program fits your learning style, career goals, and personal preferences.
Evaluate Support
Consider the support available for students and how well each program can help you succeed.
Trust Your Instincts
Pay attention to your gut feelings about each program and choose the one that feels right for you.