Timeline for Application to Graduate School

As a general rule of thumb, it is best to begin the process six to eight months prior to the application deadline.

Late fall/early spring deadlines for fall admission are most common but some programs offer other admission terms or cycles. Research your programs carefully for their specific admission terms and deadlines.

Example Grad School Admissions Timeline

6 to 8 Months Prior to Application Deadline

Use the program finder to research different, application requirements and how to apply.
Contact your Admissions Representative about on-campus or virtual visits.
Write your first draft statement of goals / personal statement.

4 to 6 Months Prior to Application Deadline

Meet with faculty members and supervisors to share a draft of your personal statement for feedback and ask for letters of recommendation.
Register for any required standardized tests. Allow enough time to study and to take the exam(s) again, as necessary.

2 to 3 Months Prior to Application Deadline

Take standardized tests, if required by your program.
Visit your program's page to research application requirements and how to apply to your specific program. Search for your program at UND.edu/programs.
Finalize your statement of goals / personal statement.
Order official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions.

1 to 2 Months Prior to Application Deadline

Complete application forms.
Provide information to each of your recommenders to assist them in writing a recommendation.

Whenever Your Specific Deadlines Are

Submit applications. Do not wait until the final deadline. If possible, submit well in advance of the final deadline to allow additional time to request and/or resubmit any missing or incomplete materials.
Contact the UND School of Graduate Studies, your graduate representative and/or One-Stop Student Services to request information on financial aid.

1 to 2 Months Post Application

Some programs may require an interview.
Continue to check your application portal for an admission decision and carefully read the decision letter for information on your next steps.