Tips for Getting into Grad School: Building a 2025 Roadmap

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

There are many reasons for people to get into grad school. Firstly, it offers the time and resources to learn more about the fields and topics of interest. Secondly, it will open doors to research and job opportunities. However, there are many ways to get into grad school. Finally, initial expectations do not always conform with reality.

In this article, we are going to get into some tips on how to get into grad school. These also include some facts and statistics that can help you understand the state of graduate education better.

Can online learning platforms bolster your grad school readiness?
All About Grad School
Why graduate school?
Can online certifications supplement my graduate school credentials?
Tips for Getting into Grad School
What are the essential components of a compelling grad school application?
How can extracurricular activities enhance your grad school application?
How do I select a specialized graduate program that aligns with my career objectives?
How can I secure funding for my graduate studies?
What are the career prospects after graduate school?

Can online learning platforms bolster your grad school readiness?

Integrating online education into your grad school preparation can provide a flexible and cost-effective way to build advanced skills and deepen subject knowledge. Prospective students can leverage digital platforms to access specialized coursework, develop effective study habits, and keep pace with emerging industry trends. Moreover, complementing traditional academic preparation with affordable online courses can enhance technical proficiency and critical thinking abilities, both of which are crucial during rigorous graduate programs.

All About Grad School

If you are reading this article, then youare probably wondering, should I go to grad school? Well, that is only natural, since most high school and college students by now have a general idea of what a graduate school is. Mostly, they see it as a more advanced program in a certain field of research or profession. However, there are important nuances that prospective grad school students should know. The many different types of college degrees and graduate degrees are one of them. A graduate school usually confers three types.

What is a graduate school?

Traditionally, graduate schools are centered on academics (University of California-Berkeley, 2021). This means that the programs are focused on creating original research in an area or discipline. Graduate schools, however, have expanded to also cater to professional education needs. This type of concentration is for the building of knowledge, skills, and expertise for a particular profession or trade. There are also graduate schools that are a combination of both.

The usual types of degrees that you can earn from a graduate school are:

Master’s Degree
Doctoral Degree
Professional Degree

As mentioned, these degrees awarded by particular graduate programs are of many kinds. Professional degrees include a Juris Doctor (Doctor of Jurisprudence) and a Medicinae Doctor (Doctor of Medicine). These have more specific tracks in terms of employment and practice.

However, it seems that the most common idea that drives people to get into graduate school is to earn a Ph.D. degree, which is the typical terminal degree, being the highest academic rank that a particular school or discipline can confer.

But how to prepare for grad school? Well, there are several ways to achieve this. Firstly, the more traditional route is to have a master’s degree first before you can apply to Ph.D. programs. What is a master’s degree? It is a graduate-level program that features advanced courses and typically takes a couple of years to complete.

There are also programs out there that let students apply straight after graduating from a bachelor’s program to a Ph.D. program. The more traditional one is popular in Europe, while the latter is more popular in the United States (Academic Positions, 2018).

The Traditional Route: Master’s to Doctoral

Several advantages of going the traditional route include (Academic Positions, 2018):

Less time commitment
Less competition in the admission process
More time to explore interests
A chance to experience multiple universities (if not continuing with the home institution)
Could be a requirement for target Ph.D. programs (so, check target schools’ requirements)

However, mind that funding is less available to incoming master’s students than doctoral students.

Straight to Ph.D.

On the other hand, the advantages of the straight-to-Ph.D. route include the following:

Bypass years spent on a master’s degree
Earn a master’s degree by doing course work (some institutions)
Have long-term projects and collaborative research work
Start research work right away
Move only once to another institution (if not continuing with the home institution)
Have more chance at funding

Pressure Can Be Tough: Especially for Grad Students Employed Off-Campus

The pressure in Ph.D. programs is much higher. This is more so when students are also dealing with their personal lives like relationships, jobs, and family. Withdrawal from Ph.D. programs is quite common.

And withdrawing permanently may result in students not earning a degree at all. Again, depending on the program, you may leave with a master’s degree through partial coursework completion. But this can be a true waste of time and money. Moreover, there is one significant factor at play here.

In a study by Bekova (2021), the results show “that on-campus employment increases the chances to defend the thesis and off-campus employment is negatively associated with the completion." So, finding a job outside of the institution will more likely lead to withdrawal. If this is statistically the case, those pursuing a professional degree working outside the academic institution are more likely to withdraw.

In fact, in 2008, the completion rate was low at 56% for all doctoral programs (Sowell, Zhang, Redd, & King, 2008 in Grasso, Barry, & Valentine, 2009). The highest was in engineering (63.9%) and followed by the social sciences (62.9%). The completion rate in the humanities was just shy of 50%. Just imagine the time, effort, and resources lost here. This is not only limited to that of the students but also to the institutions and professors that have also invested in them.

Why graduate school?

There are many reasons and grad school tips for applying to enter grad school. These include:

More in-depth pursuit of interests
Contribute knowledge to your discipline and beyond
Collaborate with other researchers
Be an expert in the field
Have more job prospects and increase salary potential

If you have one or a combination of these reasons, maybe graduate school is right for you. Now, you’re asking, how to do well in graduate school? Then let us get into some tips for getting into grad school. But perhaps, the greatest driver among them is financial freedom.

One simple statistic on how to get into a good grad school attests to having a graduate degree’s attractiveness. Those with graduate degrees can earn a median usual weekly wage north of $1,880. The figure for people with a bachelor’s degree is only $1,305.

Increasing Returns on (Educational) Investments

As Posslet and Gdosky (2017) noted in their study, “Graduate Education and Social Stratification" published in the Annual Review of Sociology, “The economic returns to graduate credentials constitute a nontrivial—and increasing—portion of the returns to higher education more generally. Since the 1990s, economic returns to college have increased modestly compared with the returns to graduate and professional degrees. The earning advantage of college graduates over high school graduates increased only 6% from 2000 to 2013 versus a 17% increase in the relative earnings of those with a graduate degree. Among women aged 4065 in 2012, those with a master’s, doctoral, or professional degree enjoyed median salaries 25%, 60%, and 108% greater than those of bachelor’s degree recipients, respectively. Among similarly aged men, the benefits of advanced degrees over bachelor’s degrees for median salaries were 17%, 30%, and 100%."

Moreover, the researchers added that in addition to having better income levels, “people who hold graduate and professional degrees are increasingly overrepresented among the wealthiest Americans." They pointed out that from 1989 to 2010, “the share of people with a master’s degree or higher in the top 5% of the wealth distribution rose from almost 30% to around 45%. People with a professional or doctoral degree are mostly responsible for driving this trend, and their share of the top 1% of the income distribution is greater still at 62%."

Can online certifications supplement my graduate school credentials?

Supplementing your academic track with targeted online certifications can provide a competitive edge during the graduate school application process. Accredited courses and industry-recognized certificates validate specific skill sets that complement traditional degrees, enhancing both your academic profile and career readiness. Evaluate credentials based on curriculum relevance and market demand to ensure they effectively bridge any gaps in expertise. For further guidance, consider exploring the best online certifications available.

Tips for Getting into Grad School

There is no correct answer if you’re asking, is it hard to get into grad school? However, many people who have stepped into graduate school will tell you that it can be harder than you can imagine. There will be financial, social, professional, and of course, academic pressures. Given all these, many can crumble. One can only do their best in preparing for these. Thus, arguably, the best among the tips for getting into graduate programs is to plan early.

Most good plans don’t go exactly as planned. But having no plan can end worse. The best thing to mitigate unwanted surprises is to have a comprehensive plan surrounding key areas. This is regardless if it is a master’s, doctoral, or professional degree program.

Have an End Goal

Yes, this may be cliché. Even if you’re going to grad school at 30, you should still have an idea of what you want to accomplish by entering and after completing grad school. If it is not clear, then have a list of what you think you can be. Of course, this should be aligned not only with your personal interests but also with your career interests. This is usually much easier for those who want to take a specific professional graduate degree but is more difficult for those who want to pursue an academic degree, especially as disciplines can converge in certain research areas.

Maybe you are not clear on this yet but as you refine your end goals and ideas, you will be in a better position to choose your major and your degree among important educational decisions to align with your goals. With this, you will have more steady ground as you move along.

In the U.S., the top field of research by the number of degrees conferred is the health profession and related programs (National Center for Education Statistics, 2020). In 2020, the number reached 82,895. The field with the second most doctoral degrees conferred is legal professions and studies. It is a far second, with only 34,387 recorded in 2020.

Have a Shortlist, Do Your Homework

now, what do you do in grad school? If you already have a general idea of what you are going to do, the next step is to scout for prospective graduate programs and institutions that you wish to enroll in. Do some research into them and look for the following information:

Accreditation and reputation. Choose a program that is offered, at the very least, by an accredited institution so that your credentials will be more solid. Of course, the stronger the reputation of the particular school or program, the better.
Requirements. Remember that each institution has its own unique requirements. Thus, you have to be diligent and take note of them so you can comply even in the middle of your undergraduate studies.
Faculty. Browse the faculty members of your target program and check on their research interests and contributions. Maybe, you can find the ones that you can work under for your dissertation.
Tuition and fees. Of course, you really have to mind the financial requirements and your current and future situation. If you know what graduate school education will cost you, you can certainly plan ahead.
Available funding and grants. Look into funding and grant-giving institutions. There are many financial aid opportunities for virtually everyone. This is, of course, if you make the cut.

Maintain good grades. Invest in the future.

So, how hard is it to get into grad school? It is generally very difficult. Speaking of how hard is grad school yet still making the cut, you really have to maintain good grades during your undergraduate career. This is because doctoral degree programs can have a very competitive admission process. Top universities only want to spend time with the best and committed graduates. So, maintaining a GPA of 3.3 to 3.5 or higher can help your case.

Moreover, if you already have a solid plan as to what program to enroll in and in what school, you should consider taking graduate classes during your undergraduate years. However, choosing them can be tough, especially if you want to continue your education in a different institution. This is because different institutions can have different policies for transfer credits, especially when they do not belong in the same state.

Build a network. Find mentors.

How to get into graduate school? Well, finding success in research and in employment is greatly affected by whom you know rather than what you know. Given more thought, whom you know can also help you refine and increase what you know. So, it is best to find the right people to associate with during your grad school years. Even in your undergrad years, you can start doing this.

You can approach researchers and professionals and ask them questions about their work. Many times, they will be gracious enough to share with you more personal and actionable tips. Maybe even tips for getting into grad school with a low GPA. They might even point you towards quality online graduate education or graduate schools without Graduate Record Examinations (GRE).

Also, look to guidance counselors as mentors. They give you valuable tips and insights, as well as connect you with the right people and institutions, especially for financial aid.

What are the essential components of a compelling grad school application?

A strong application portfolio balances academic rigor with personal achievements. It should feature a focused statement of purpose that outlines your research interests and clearly defines your career objectives. Additionally, tailor your curriculum vitae to emphasize academic accomplishments, relevant work experience, and any specialized projects that demonstrate your capacity for advanced study. High-quality letters of recommendation from mentors or professionals who can attest to your research potential are vital. Consider supplementing your credentials with unique educational milestones, such as completing the fastest bachelors degree, to further illustrate your ability to thrive in intensive learning environments. Lastly, ensure that each element of your application coherently addresses the specific requirements of your target programs.

How can extracurricular activities enhance your grad school application?

While strong academic performance and research experience are crucial for graduate school applications, extracurricular activities can also play a significant role in strengthening your application. These activities demonstrate well-roundedness, leadership skills, and a commitment to your field of interest, all of which are appealing to admissions committees.

Demonstrating Leadership and Initiative:
- Participating in student organizations, academic societies, or professional groups allows you to show leadership skills and initiative. Holding leadership positions in these groups (e.g., president of a student club, head of a community service project) reflects your ability to manage responsibilities and work well with others—qualities that are valuable for success in graduate programs.
- Example: Serving as the president of a student organization related to your field of study can illustrate your dedication and passion for the subject, setting you apart from other candidates.
Gaining Relevant Experience Outside the Classroom:
- Extracurricular activities can provide practical experience that complements academic achievements. Involvement in activities such as internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs related to your field can demonstrate your applied skills and interest in the subject matter beyond the classroom.
- Example: Volunteering at a local research lab or completing an internship in a relevant industry can showcase your hands-on experience and help you build connections in the field.
Developing Soft Skills:
- Extracurricular activities can help develop valuable soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management, which are essential for success in graduate school. Participating in debate clubs, public speaking events, or group projects can improve these skills and show your ability to work collaboratively in a graduate program setting.
- Example: Joining a debate team can improve your public speaking and critical thinking skills, which can be advantageous during interviews or in presenting your research.
Expanding Your Professional Network:
- Engaging in extracurricular activities can help you connect with professionals, mentors, and peers who can provide valuable advice or write strong letters of recommendation. Networking through activities like attending conferences, participating in academic competitions, or joining professional associations can enhance your visibility and reputation in your field.
- Example: Presenting a paper at an undergraduate research conference can provide an opportunity to meet established scholars in your field and potentially lead to future research collaborations.
Showcasing a Commitment to Community Service:
- Many graduate programs, particularly those in fields like public health, social work, or education, value community engagement and service. Involvement in volunteer work or community projects can reflect your commitment to making a positive impact, which aligns with the values of many academic institutions.
- Example: Volunteering at a local non-profit organization can illustrate your dedication to service and may be especially relevant if the organization's mission aligns with your research interests.

How do I select a specialized graduate program that aligns with my career objectives?

Evaluate programs by examining curriculum focus, faculty expertise, and industry connections to ensure they map directly to your long-term career objectives. Consider factors such as program accreditation, research opportunities, and practical components that develop both core and innovative skills needed in your field. Additionally, assess how the program’s structure supports flexibility and work-life balance, particularly when exploring blended or online formats. For instance, prospective students interested in education can review masters in special education distance learning as a pathway to advance their careers through specialized online programs.

How can I secure funding for my graduate studies?

Securing financial support is critical for a successful graduate experience. Explore a spectrum of options including institutional fellowships, teaching or research assistantships, and grants from private organizations. Evaluate each funding source for eligibility and deadlines while developing a targeted application strategy. Consider cost-effective alternatives such as an online PhD program that may reduce associated expenses. Meticulous financial planning and proactive engagement with funding opportunities can ease the financial burden of advanced studies.

What are the career prospects after graduate school?

Evaluating advanced education benefits involves examining long-term career trajectories, salary potential, and industry-specific demands. Analyze current labor market data and trends to determine how specialized expertise contributes to leadership roles and higher-level responsibilities. Consider how graduate studies can open avenues in emerging sectors and enhance job stability while aligning with professional growth objectives. Additionally, a strong foundational education is essential; for cost-effective options, explore an online bachelor degree cheap as a preliminary step before pursuing advanced specialization.

Execute the Plan

As mentioned, most good plans do not go exactly as they are expected to. But there is no other choice but to execute. Once you have a roadmap, this is the time to do it. However, you should be open to the fact that your plans can change about what to do after grad school, and most likely, they will change. So, you have to come up with some contingencies or even alter some parts of your plan (or everything altogether).

The most important thing, however, is to concentrate on what you can control. Largely, these are your grades and fulfilling the entrance requirements. Other things could just fall into place given that you are actively seeking ways to increase your likelihood of getting accepted.

Maintaining your grades and working on your requirements requires grit. And grit is essential to graduate school success. It may take you the long way or the short way, both of which can be very stressful. But both can be very rewarding in the end.

Key Insights

Types of Graduate Degrees: Graduate schools offer various degrees, including Master’s, Doctoral, and Professional degrees, each catering to different academic and professional pursuits.
Traditional vs. Direct Ph.D. Routes: Students can either pursue a Master’s degree before a Ph.D. or apply directly to Ph.D. programs. Each route has distinct advantages and challenges.
Funding Challenges: Master’s students often face more difficulty securing funding compared to doctoral students, making financial planning crucial.
Completion Rates: The completion rates for doctoral programs vary significantly across disciplines, with engineering having the highest and humanities the lowest rates.
Employment Impact: On-campus employment increases the likelihood of thesis completion, while off-campus employment is negatively associated with program completion.
Graduate Education Benefits: Graduate degrees significantly boost earning potential and job prospects, with advanced degrees leading to higher median salaries and overrepresentation among the wealthiest Americans.
Preparation Tips: Successful grad school preparation involves setting clear end goals, researching potential programs, maintaining good grades, building a network, and executing a flexible plan.

FAQ

What types of degrees can I earn from a graduate school? Graduate schools typically offer Master’s, Doctoral, and Professional degrees. Master’s degrees provide advanced coursework in specific fields, Doctoral degrees focus on original research, and Professional degrees prepare students for specific professions like law or medicine.
What are the advantages of pursuing a Master’s degree before a Ph.D.? Pursuing a Master’s degree first allows for a less time-intensive commitment, less competition during admissions, more time to explore interests, and the opportunity to experience multiple universities. It can also be a requirement for certain Ph.D. programs.
What are the benefits of applying directly to a Ph.D. program? Direct Ph.D. programs allow students to bypass the time spent on a Master’s degree, start research work immediately, and often have more opportunities for funding. Some institutions also award a Master’s degree through coursework during the Ph.D. program.
How does employment impact Ph.D. program completion rates? On-campus employment positively impacts the chances of thesis completion, while off-campus employment is negatively associated with completion rates. Students employed off-campus are more likely to withdraw from their programs.
What are the financial benefits of obtaining a graduate degree? Graduate degrees significantly enhance earning potential. Individuals with Master’s, Doctoral, or Professional degrees enjoy median salaries substantially higher than those with only a bachelor’s degree. Advanced degrees also increase representation among the wealthiest Americans.
How should I prepare for graduate school admissions? Preparing for graduate school involves setting clear end goals, researching and shortlisting programs, maintaining good grades, building a network of mentors and professionals, and executing a flexible, comprehensive plan. Taking graduate classes during undergraduate studies and securing funding are also crucial steps.
What factors should I consider when selecting a graduate program? Key factors include the program’s accreditation and reputation, specific admission requirements, faculty research interests, tuition and fees, and available funding and grants. It’s essential to align the program with your career goals and financial situation.
How important are grades for graduate school admission? Grades are crucial for admission to competitive doctoral programs. Maintaining a GPA of 3.3 to 3.5 or higher can improve your chances of acceptance. Good grades also enhance your eligibility for funding and scholarships.
How can I build a network to support my graduate school journey? Building a network involves connecting with researchers, professionals, and mentors who can provide guidance and support. Approach faculty members, attend academic conferences, and seek advice from guidance counselors. A strong network can offer valuable insights and increase your chances of success.

References:

Academic Positions. (2018, June 12). Master’s first or straight to PhD? Academic Positions.
Bekova, S. (2019). Does employment during doctoral training reduce the PhD completion rate? Studies in Higher Education, 46(6), 1068-1080. Taylor and Francis.
Grasso, M., Barry, M., & Valentine, T. (2009). A data-driven approach to improving doctoral completion. Washington, DC: Council of Graduate Schools. CGS.
National Center for Education Statistics. (2020, June 30). Digest of education statistics 2020. Statista.
Sowell, R., Zhang, T., Redd, K., & King, M. F. (2008). Ph.D. completion and attrition: Analysis of baseline program data from the Ph.D. Completion Project. Washington DC: Council of Graduate Schools. CGS.
Posselt, J. R., & Grodsky, E. (2017). Graduate education and social stratification. Annual review of sociology, 43(2017), 378. NCBI.
Torpey, E. (2021, June 22). Education pays, 2020. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. BLS.