Tips for applying to graduate school
Are you considering applying to graduate school? Earning an advanced degree is a great way to enhance your knowledge, increase your earning potential, and advance your career.
The graduate school application process can be exciting and overwhelming at times. If you prepare properly and approach the task with confidence, you will set yourself up for success.
Follow the tips below to make your application stand out and land a spot in your dream graduate program.
Start Early
Getting your application materials together early is one of the best things you can do. The Computational Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CoBB) master’s degree program requires a transcript from all previous universities, a two-page personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. Some international applicants will also need to submit IELTS or TOEFL scores.
Your transcript alone could take a few weeks to arrive, so don’t procrastinate sending a transcript request to your university. Also, it’s courteous to give your recommenders at least four weeks’ notice so they can write strong recommendation letters on your behalf.
Requesting Recommendation Letters: Who to Ask
Recommendation letters are an important part of the application process. When considering who to ask for a recommendation letter, former professors and supervisors are a good option. You want to make sure you’re choosing someone who knows you well in a professional or academic capacity and can speak to your strengths.
It’s also important to provide your chosen reference with as much information about your request as possible. That way, they’ll be able to write a more detailed letter for you. At the minimum, tell them the name of the school to which you’re applying, the degree you’re pursuing, why you are interested in this degree, and your application deadline.
Don’t forget to thank your references when they submit your letters!
Write a Strong Statement of Purpose
The statement of purpose is your opportunity to tell the admissions committee about who you are as a person beyond your transcript and GPA. You can discuss your background, how you’ve overcome challenges in your life, and why you are seeking a degree in your selected program.
Let the admissions team know what drives you, whether that’s professional growth or a personal goal. Be sure to mention the parts of the program that appeal to you the most and how you plan to use your degree to achieve your goals. Be true to yourself and let your personality shine through.
Proofread Before You Submit
Submitting a polished, error-free personal statement will boost your chances of making a positive impression. Before you submit, make sure to proofread your application materials.
It’s also helpful to have a trusted mentor or advisor give your personal statement a second look. They can help you fix errors that you may have missed and present your qualifications in a compelling way.
Ask Questions If You Need Help
If you have any questions about the application process along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to the admissions team. They are here to help you.
Also, if there’s a particular area of research you’d like to pursue, you can also contact a faculty member in the department whose research focuses on that topic. They may be looking to fill a research position in their lab, and expressing interest early could help you land the role.
Good luck with your graduate school applications!
Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Applications for the Computational Biomedicine and Biotechnology master’s degree program are now open. Learn foundational techniques in AI, machine learning, drug discovery, and bioinformatics to address pressing biomedical challenges. Learn more about the CoBB program.