General Graduate School Resources and Timeline

Find a Graduate Program

• GradSchools.com: Start your search for programs here.
• U.S. News and World Report: Graduate school rankings
• Business School (MBA and more!)
• Pre-Law at W&L and Law School
• W&L Guide to Pre-Health Professions
• Medical School
• Dental School
• Veterinary School
• Pharmacy School
• Optometry School

General Timeline

The timeline below is a general outline. Specific programs and schools may differ. Consult your advisor for individual advice.

Junior Year (15-18 months before matriculation):

• Discuss your options with faculty and career advisors
• Research programs
• Begin entrance exam preparation
• Explore financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships

Summer Before and Early Fall of Senior Year (12-15 months before matriculation):

• Schedule and take entrance exams
• Finalize application list and determine individual program requirements and deadlines
• Draft your CV and Personal Statements
• Ask for letters of recommendation
• Order transcripts from the registrar
• Complete any scholarship or fellowship applications

Winter Term of Senior Year (6-9 months before matriculation):

• File income tax returns and submit other necessary paperwork for financial aid
• Visit campus(es) if possible
• Maintain contact with admissions representatives from schools where you are waitlisted and discuss options with a career advisor
• Commit and send financial deposit
• Thank your mentors and letter writers, and let them know your final plans