GRADUATE SCHOOL:  THE APPLICATION PROCESS

Application Request: The first step is to visit the web sites of schools of interest.  Graduate School admission requirements will be outlined and it will be possible for you to request specific information by e-mail. · Download applications - you may even be able to apply online · Request catalog & program information · Get range of GPA's and scores for students accepted last year and number of students accepted last year

Application Form:
· Read and follow instructions carefully
· If not an online application, type applications (typewriters available in Library and Career Advising)
· Pay attention to details and deadlines.  Don't squeak in - get it there way ahead of time
· Proofread the application for spelling, grammar and typographical errors.  Have someone else proofread after you
· Make a copy of your own records
· Be prepared for the expenses involved

Resume:
Workshops, handouts, and advice are available to help you construct a professional resume.  Check the website or call for our workshop dates and times.  Bring in a resume draft during our regular Resume Review on Wed., 8:30-10:30 a.m. or Fri., 1:30-2:30 p.m.  (No appointment needed.)

Personal Essay Tips:
· Create an academic identity
· Point out your strengths; explain any area of your application that may not meet their requirements.  Build an image of yourself that goes beyond your transcript
· Tailor each essay to the school's philosophy and requirements
· Be clear, concise, and well-organized
· Ask friends, professors, or writing tutors to critique and proofread your essay

Letters of Recommendation:
· Give professors and previous employers plenty of time to complete your recommendations before the deadline.  Ask, "Do you feel comfortable writing me a strong recommendation?"
· Give each person writing a recommendation a copy of your resume and personal essay if possible

Keeping Track:
· Create a card file or database of schools to which you have applied
· Make note of information you have received and where you stand in the application process
· Set timetable and follow up when appropriate
 

Selecting a Program:
The Internet is your best resource for updated information on programs.  Start with www.eou.edu/career.  To locate graduate/professional programs in your field, check out the college search engines (Gradschool.com, College Source, Go College, College View.). These are found under Graduate School Information.  Contact us (or the library staff) if you would like assistance using these resources.

Additionally, catalogs and books are available for checkout from Career Advising.  A sample of titles from the collection follows: · Approved Law Schools.  1997 · Graduate & Professional Programs:  An Overview.  1999 · Jumping through the Hoops: A Survival Guide to Graduate School.  1996 · The Official Guide to Financing Your MBA. 1994 · The Official Guide to MBA Programs.  1994 · Directory of Energy-Related Graduate Programs in U.S. Universities.  1992 · The Grants Register - The Complete Guide to Postgraduate Funding Worldwide. 1999 · Graduate Admissions Essays - Write Your Way Into the Graduate School of Your Choice. 2000 · How to Write a Winning Personal Statement for Graduate and Professional School.  1989 · Graduate Programs in Human Resource Management.  2000 · Guide to No. American Graduate & Postgraduate Training Programs in Human Genetics. 94- 95

Additional Resources -Pierce Library
· Peterson's Annual Guides/Graduate Study, Volumes 1-6, 2001
· Peterson's Grants for Graduate & Post Doctoral Study, 1995
· The College Blue Book, 1999
· Educational Rankings Annual, 2001
· The Gourman Report: A Rating of Graduate and Professional Programs in American & International Universities, 1996
· U.S. News & World Report (October 1996 issue hard copy or 1995 on Microfilm)
 

Eastern Faculty Support It is extremely helpful to have strong academic support from one or more professors in your major field of study.  As  an undergraduate student it is advisable for you to work closely with your academic advisor and other faculty members.  Faculty who have observed your work and academic growth are able to write stronger letters of recommendation and  assist you in the pursuit of your advanced degree.

Testing Information:
The first place to go for testing information is Eastern's Testing Services website: www.eou.edu/testing
Many questions can be answered easily and more and more, registration takes place online.  Testing Services is located in Inlow 105.  Rebecca Nord is the Testing Supervisor, 962-3833.

Registration and information booklets are available for the following graduate exams in Inlow 105: · GRE (Graduate Record Examination) · MAT (Miller Analogy Test) GRE preparation software is available in the Career Advising Resource Room. The Eastern Bookstore carries a variety of books and software to assist you in preparing for graduate school exams.

Graduate Record Exam - Subject Tests
Only the GRE SUBJECT tests are offered on campus.  Eastern does not administer the general GRE.  It is administered at regional testing centers that can be located easily at the Educational Testing Service website (see below).  The timing of when you take the exam depends on when you get an appointment to take it.  The closest sites are Boise and Portland.

GRE SUBJECT TESTS:
 

Test Date	Registration Deadline	Costs	Location	Time
December 14, 2002	October 25	$130 Each Subject Test $35 Standby	Zabel 114	8:30 a.m.

*If you are receiving financial aid and wish to register for the GRE, check with the Financial Aid Office to see if you
are eligible for a fee waiver.
*For general test information refer to GRE website found: www.eou.edu/testing -or- call 1-800-GRE-CALL

Miller Analogy Test - MAT:  Contact Testing Services to make arrangements for this exam 962-3833

Other Exam Information

LSAT:  Please contact Dr. Jeff Dense, Ackerman 204 J, 962-3854

MCAT:  Please contact Dr. Denny Swanger, Badgley 314,, 962-3334

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