Application Timeline for US Graduate School Admission

Most US universities have two primary intakes for students –Fall and Spring. The fall intake is popular among Indian students because it starts in September. The fall semester is also the beginning of the academic year which means better opportunities for scholarships.

You will have to start preparing a year earlier before the universities finalize admissions in May for the fall intake.

Here is a timeline you can follow:

May

Start your research on graduate schools to shortlist your choice

Get GRE practice tests done to assess how much you need to prepare

June

Enroll for a course to help you in GRE preparation

July

Research on the schools you have shortlisted

Reach out to your teachers, friends and peers for information and suggestions on programs to study

August

Start working on your SOP (Statement of purpose)

Attempt the GRE general test and retake it if you aren’t happy with the scores

September

Finalize your list of grad schools

Contact your recommenders

Refine your SOP

Register for the November GRE test if required

October

Contact shortlisted schools and request official transcripts

Build contacts with students and professors in these schools

Send your resume, personal statement to your recommenders to use as reference

November

Take the GRE subject test and ensure scores are sent to the colleges

Ask friends to review your personal statement

December

Submit applications to your shortlisted schools after due verification

Keep copies of all your applications