1. Figure out your needs 

When applying for grad school it is helpful to know your needs. Make a list of your priorities and then start researching schools that meet your criteria. Price range, scholarship availability, location and program availability are all possible considerations. Secondary considerations might include campus amenities and character, student benefits and city life. By figuring out your needs and values, you can begin the process of getting an idea of what programs you might be interested in and which schools might be best for you.

2. Make a Spreadsheet

After beginning research, make a spreadsheet of all of this information. In this spreadsheet include important information like the university name, location, price, deadlines and required application materials. As you continue to find schools that interest you, add them to your spreadsheet. This step is most helpful for keeping track of deadlines. Also, keep your spreadsheet updated and visible. Consider making a hard copy and hanging it up by a daily calendar or somewhere visible to you to avoid forgetting deadlines.

3. Start Early 

To avoid getting behind on applications or getting caught off guard, start early. Start the research process the summer after your junior year. While deadlines often fall around December or January, some programs can be due earlier. Because of this, get an early start on your research and reach out to your recommenders early. Once you know what schools you are passionate about applying to, open up the applications early and get an idea of what your essay prompts and required materials are.

4. Avoid Being Cliché 

If you are applying to several schools, you will likely write many essays and each of them will vary just enough to be annoying. During the writing process, avoid cliches. While this may be hard given your brain is mush from trying to rewrite the same essay, focus on traits and experiences that will set you apart in the applicant pool. Tell a story to the admission committee and be specific. Don’t just write, “I want to study this because it has always been a passion of mine.” Show your character in your writing. 

5. See if you are eligible for fee waivers early 

Finally, if you are applying to a large number of schools you can accumulate lots of application fees. Apply to ten schools and you’ve already spent $500. Save yourself some money and check each of the schools’ policies on fee waivers. If you have started filing your own taxes and receive Pell Grants, this is often enough to qualify to submit your application for free. For students receiving Pell, you will often just have to send a screenshot of your FAFSA form to the school but for specific details check the university’s website.