Getting into graduate school
Many VCU grads go on to pursue further graduate or professional studies. If you’re thinking about applying, begin the process early. While every program is different, it normally takes several months to apply to a graduate or professional program. Here are some ways you can make the process easier for yourself.
Most applications can take anywhere from three months to a year, depending on the type of program. While some programs only require a school-specific application, others might include standardized tests, resume/CV, recommendations, essay questions and an interview. By knowing the specific requirements and the attributes of each school, you can plan for all the appropriate steps you will need to take.
To help you in your planning, try our grad school comparison checklist.
Once you decide on a program, take the appropriate standardized test for entrance. Many of these sites have practice exams you can take in advance to help increase your scores. Common exams include:
Some programs will ask you to write a personal statement related to your chosen field of study. You can meet with a career advisor to review your personal statement. Personal statements are usually categorized in one of the following ways:
- A general personal statement: You’re free to write about the topic of your choice, but make sure your topic connects to your qualifications and desire to attend graduate school in some way. This type of question is often found in law or medical school applications.
- A response to a specific statement: You may be asked to respond to a specific question or statement. Your response should specifically answer the question or address the statement. Many business programs use this type of question.
For more information, check out the following resources:
A letter of recommendation is a document written by someone who can speak to your skills, experience, and character in an academic, work, or volunteer setting. They are usually written by professors, supervisors, mentors, or other professionals who know your abilities and can provide a credible, positive perspective on your qualifications.
A letter of recommendation provides important additional context as part of your application, and strong letters don't happen by accident. They happen when you ask the right people, give them time to write a thoughtful letter, and provide them with information they need to write something specific and compelling. Check out our Requesting Letters of Recommendation Resource to learn more! We also have a helpful guide to share with your recommenders when you reach out to them – this Writing Letters of Recommendation Resource has guidance on getting started on letters and how to make them stronger.
Competitive graduate and professional programs often include interviews. These could be a singular interview with a potential faculty advisor or multiple mini-interviews for health-related programs. It is important to research beforehand and practice for these interviews like you would any other. Check out our graduate school interview questions guide for insight on how to prepare for common questions you might be asked in a graduate school interview.