Starting Your Graduate School Search
Graduate school can help you build advanced skills and move toward your career goals. The Career & Experiential Education team can help you figure out which programs make sense for you, decide when to apply, and navigate each step of the process—from researching schools to submitting strong applications—so you can move forward with confidence.
First, Ask: Do I even need a graduate degree?
Talk to a career advisor or professionals in fields you’re interested in and ask:
- Is a graduate degree required?
- Is a master’s enough, or is a PhD necessary?
Reach out to alumni through Ask A Scot or LinkedIn.
Look into the current job market for that degree—and where it’s expected to be when you’d graduate.
Research Graduate Programs
- Ask faculty and alumni (Ask A Scot) about their experiences and which programs are well respected
- Think about your interests:
- What topics do you want to research or focus on?
- Who is doing interesting work in that area?
- Check out the College of Wooster graduate program partnerships
- Check whether departments share job outcomes for graduates
- Look for programs that offer strong career support for graduate students
Preparing Applications
Review how to write a resume/CV or schedule a meeting with a career advisor on Handshake.
- Resume: A one-page document that highlights your most relevant experiences, skills, and accomplishments
- CV: Include relevant information like Independent Study Thesis (I.S), research experience, publications, presentations, and teaching assistantships
Need help getting started? Schedule a meeting with a career advisor on Handshake or with the Writing Center.
- Read the question and answer what they are asking.
- Include specific reasons for your interest in this area of study
- Highlight your academic achievements (i.e., Independent Study) and future plans.
- Have your statement reviewed by faculty, Career & Experiential Education, or the Writing Center.
Ask recommenders 4-6 weeks before the deadline.
- You can ask your professor, I.S. advisor, coach, or supervisor
- Provide your recommenders with a resume/CV, personal statement, and/or link to the program
- Thank your recommender after they submit their reference
- Track Applications: Create a document to track the school’s requirements and deadlines
- Secure Transcripts: Request transcripts from the registrar and other institutions you have attended
Some programs require entrance exams
- Register for the Entrance Exams online
- Most exams are arranged on an individual basis at testing centers on computers.
- Be aware test registration deadlines, many are earlier than you might expect.
- Prepare for the Exams
- Study guides are available online and books can be purchased in the bookstore.
- Some external organizations, such as Kaplan, offer preparatory courses
When to Take Entrance Exams (GRE, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT)
| Test | Best Timing for Fall Start | Latest Advisable |
| GRE/GMAT | 12-15 months | 9-10 months |
| LSAT | 14-16 months | 10-12 months |
| MCAT | 15-18 months | 12-14 months |
Types of Financial Aid
Fellowships:
- Merit-based awards (like scholarships) for graduate students
- Offered by universities, departments, and federal programs
- Career One Stop – scholarship finder
Assistantships:
- Teaching or Research Assistantships: Work 10–20 hours/week for a stipend and/or tuition reduction
- These awards usually carry full or partial tuition remission plus a stipend; the number of hours worked per week varies
Resident Assistantships:
- Earn a stipend, room, and/or board by working in residence halls
- Ask the school’s residence life office for opportunities
Loans:
- Complete the FAFSA
- Federal and private loan options are available.
- The financial aid office can explain eligibility and terms
We’re Here to Help
Meet with a career advisor to explore options, prepare materials, and answer any questions!
