Research

• Make a list of priorities for your graduate program. Rankings and program accreditation are common factors. Additional factors might be faculty advisors, program modality, and available assistantships and funding.
•  Research which schools offer programs that interest you. One popular resource to find a comprehensive list of available programs is Peterson’s Graduate & Professional Programs.

Entrance Exams

• Learn which exam is required for admissions.
  • Graduate Record Examinations GRE
  • Graduate Management Admissions Test GMAT
  • Medical College Admissions Test MCAT
  • Law School Admissions Test LSAT
  • Dental Admissions Test DAT
  • Pharmacy Admissions Test PCAT
• Take the exam early in case you would like to retest.
• Visit TTU Academic Testing Services website for the examination dates and locations. 

Application Process

• Be aware of each school’s requirements and application deadlines (some schools will require you to apply with their university in general as well as with the specific college department).
• Use your resources and get multiple perspectives on your admission documents. The University Career Center and University Writing Centers provide reviews on essays and personal statements.
• If an interview is required, do a mock interview with a career counselor at University Career Center. Call (806) 742-2210 or log in to Raider Success Hub to set up an appointment.
• If you have any questions about the university, the individual program, and/or application process, call the specific university department for the program of your choice. 
• If possible, visit the school and arrange to talk to faculty and current students in the program.

Personal Statement

The personal statement distinguishes you from other candidates and gives the admissions panel information on "who you are." This is your opportunity to “sell yourself” to the school. It is all about you, them, and where you both can go.

• Formal writing is expected. Always use proper grammar.
• Be creative and grab attention with your opening paragraph.
• Narrow the focus – not too many ideas.
• Make yourself stand out by being honest and stating your truth.
• Answer the prompt/ questions exactly and carefully. Take some time for serious reflection.
• Be sure to include personality factors, history, successes, failures, and academics.
• Straightforward writing is sometimes best.
• Provide passion, but more importantly, provide persuasiveness.
• Proofread, proofread, proofread!
• Meet with someone from the UCC to have your statement reviewed early in the process. The afternoon before the due date is not going to lead to the best review.

Personal Statement Guides:

• Personal Statement - All Majors
• Personal Statement - Medical School
• Personal Statement - Law School

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