Graduate School Application Timeline

Applying to graduate school requires careful planning. UC undergraduates can leverage the Bearcat Promise Career Studio (add link), Pre-Professional Advising Center (PPAC), and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) to navigate the process. This timeline focuses on non-pre-health/pre-law programs (e.g., master’s/PhD in engineering, business, education, arts) but can be adapted for pre-health/pre-law. 

Check programs for specific deadlines and adjust timeline based on program. 

  • Narrow Programs: Shortlist 5–10 programs based on fit and requirements. Use GradSchools.com, Peterson’s, or College Scorecard. 
  • Register for Tests: Sign up for GRE/GMAT via ETS.org or MBA.com. PPAC offers pre-health/pre-law test prep workshops (preproadv@uc.edu).
  • Gain Experience: Pursue co-ops, research, or leadership roles through UC’s top-ranked co-op program.
  • Attend Fairs: Visit UC’s Graduate College Fairs or PPAC events. Find events via Handshake (add link) or GetInvolvedUC.
  • Draft Resume: Use Career Studio’s Big Interview for feedback.
  • Request Letters: Ask 2–3 recommenders early, providing your resume and program details.
  • Start Essays: Draft personal statements tailored to each program. Use the Writing Center or PPAC for feedback.
  • Take Tests: Complete exams by early fall for score reporting (10–15 days).
  • Order Transcripts: Review unofficial UC transcripts via Catalyst for accuracy.
  • Explore Funding: Apply for scholarships and complete the FAFSA (fafsa.gov). Consult the Financial Aid Office.
  • Refine Materials: Revise essays and resumes with Career Studio or Writing Center feedback. Book a headshot (add link).
  • Submit Scores: Send test scores to programs (check codes on ETS.org or MBA.com).
  • Check Portals: Create accounts on application portals and note deadlines (often December–February).
  • Submit Early: Apply for priority deadlines (October–December) to maximize funding.
  • Follow Up: Confirm recommendation letters are on track.
  • Finalize Applications: Submit all materials, including official UC transcripts (request via the Registrar’s Office).
  • Prepare for Interviews: Practice with Career Studio’s Big Interview or book an interview booth (add link).
  • Apply for Funding: Submit scholarship/FAFSA applications.
  • Track Submissions: Confirm receipt via program portals.
  • Monitor Status: Check portals for updates and respond to requests.
  • Evaluate Offers: Compare funding and fit. Meet with Career Studio coaches if you’d like guidance.
  • Thank Recommenders: Send thank-you notes.
  • Accept Offer: Notify your chosen program by the deadline (often April 15). Decline others promptly.
  • Plan Transition: Arrange housing and connect with program advisors.
  • Celebrate: Update Handshake/LinkedIn profiles.
  • Seek Support: If needed, explore gap-year options with the Career Studio or CAPS (513-556-0648).

Key Deadlines

  • Tests: Register 2–3 months early (summer/early fall of senior year).
  • Early Deadlines: October–December.
  • Regular Deadlines: December–February.
  • Funding Deadlines: Vary by program.
  • Acceptance Deadlines: Often April 15 but check program for specific dates.

Ready to Begin? Visit the Career Studio (TUC 310) via Handshake add link), contact PPAC, or explore grad.uc.edu. For support, call CAPS at 513-556-0648 or use Bearcat Portal for advising.