Graduate Schools

Make an appointment for individualized assistance with selecting a graduate program, applications, essays, resumes and tips for obtaining letters of recommendation from faculty and employers. Contact Neepa Parikh at nparikh@mills.edu for graduate school related advice.

Where to Start

Applying to graduate school is a process that takes careful thought, self-reflection and a lot of research. The first step is to think about your reasons for going to graduate school and what you hope to achieve from a graduate-level education.

Graduate school generally differs from undergrad in that it provides:

• Specialized training for a career
• A greater, more independent, work load
• Classes that are more discussion-based rather than  lecture-based
• Greater commitment to a chosen field
• Hands on experience in a field

A graduate level education may also offer:

• More job advantages
• A higher level of prestige
• Increased job satisfaction
• Higher-level/higher-salary positions
• The education required for certain licensing exams (i.e. psychology, social work, law, counseling, professor)

Researching Programs

Doing a simple internet search can yield a extensive list of graduate schools locally, nationally and internationally.

You can begin your search by looking at Mills College Graduate programs. You can also download our internet resource guide (110k, pdf) for more ways to research programs.

In addition to internet research, it is a beneficial to talk to faculty, career counselors, grad school alums, advisers and admissions counselors to learn more about specific schools and programs. It is also a good idea to do a campus visit, if possible. Download a list of questions to ask admissions reps (134k, pdf) to help you prepare your visit.

Applying to Graduate School

Staying organized and sticking to a timeline (270k, pdf) when applying to any graduate school can help to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Each program should provide you with list of requirements for admission to their program on their website. Some schools may send you an application package. Download a general application checklist (192k, pdf) to get started. Please pay attention to deadlines and try to submit your application as soon as possible.

Admissions Tests

Which Test to Take

Different programs will require different standardized admissions tests. You should familiarize yourself with the kinds of tests generally required by the types of schools to which you will be applying. Download this list of common graduate/professional school admissions tests (232k, pdf) with information on how to register.

When to Take a Test

Make a note of when tests are offered in your area and for how long the scores are valid. If planning to attend a graduate program at some point, it is best to take these standardized tests as soon as possible. Consider how long it may take you to prepare for taking the test and how long it may take for scores to become available.

It is best to start studying for the standardized tests as soon as possible. Study guides are available for each respective test and can be found at bookstores, online or perhaps at your local library. Some students consider seeking addition test prep help from various companies. Our internet resource guide (110k, pdf) can point you in the direction of some reputable companies.

Personal Statements

Your personal statement is your opportunity to stand out from all other applicants. Your story about how you came to the decision to pursue a post-graduate degree is unique and should be told in a professional, yet persuasive manner. Download helpful tips for writing your personal statement (264k, pdf) to get started.

Most personal statements should be about 1-2 pages in length, depending on where you apply. It is critical that you follow the requirements for each program in writing your statement.

• Applying to Grad School: Tips for Success (317kb, pdf)

Letters of Recommendation

Please note: Graduate School letters of reference were no longer handled by our office as of December 31, 2008.

Most Medical and some Graduate Schools now require letters of recommendation be sent via an electronic system. We are providing a link to a cost-effective and highly regarded electronic site for your convenience.

http://www.interfolio.com/

Here are some great resources to get you started:

• Asking for a Letter of Recommendation (175kb, pdf)
• Sample Request for a Letter of Reference (6kb, pdf)
• Applying to Grad School: Tips for Success (317kb, pdf)