Timeline for Applying

18 months prior

• Think about your goals and educational plans
• Research and apply for undergraduate research opportunities, such as the Summer Research Opportunities Program
• Research and identify graduate programs and each program's deadlines. Ohio State graduate programs and degrees
• Begin practicing for standardized tests, such as the GRE
• Begin searches for fellowships and grants

Summer before senior year-June through August

• Sign up for required standardized test
• Meet with faculty members in your home department for guidance
• Identify faculty for recommendations
• Write draft of personal statement
• Get organized. Create files for each school you plan to apply to

Senior Year

September

• Take standardized test and send scores to schools
• Complete personal statement
• Request letters of recommendation
• Order transcripts and send copies to schools

October/November

• Complete application forms (online or mail form)
• Remind recommenders to mail letters by deadline
• Make copies of all application components for your records

December

• Check with schools to verify required documents have arrived

February/March

• Set up campus visits
• Admissions decisions
• Apply for financial aid

April

• Notify schools of decision
• Mail acceptance forms
• Thank faculty for recommendations