Are you considering applying to graduate school? It’s a big step, so you want to ensure you’re prepared. Many universities require their potential students to come in for an interview, but you shouldn’t be the only one answering questions. There are plenty of important questions to ask, both before and after applying for a graduate program.
Asking these questions will confirm that you are really able to understand the university and the program for which you’re applying, and this will ensure that you’ve found the right spot for you! It will also show the interview team that you’ve done your research and are prepared. Below we’ve compiled a list of important questions to consider asking during your interview.
Program Requirements
Not all graduate programs are created equal, so do your research! Consider asking questions like:
- What are the requirements for admission into the program?
- Are you required to take the GRE?
- Are you required to submit letters of recommendation?
- Is there a GPA requirement?
- What is the timeline for acceptance?
- What is the admissions deadline?
- What makes the program’s curriculum unique?
- What kind of financial aid options are available to students?
- Are students required to write a thesis or complete a capstone project?
- How long does it typically take for students to complete a program?
- Do they expect their applicants to have a wide range of volunteer and extra-curricular experience?
- How often are students admitted into programs?
Some schools will admit students provisionally while they work on submitting their application documents, or if they have had a previously low GPA in undergrad or at another institution. It’s always good to know what your options are in case you aren’t accepted into your program of choice right away.
Faculty
The faculty of the college or university is just as important as the curriculum. You want to choose a school that employees faculty members who align with your goals and ideals. One way to determine this is by asking the following questions:
- Do professors often work one-on-one with students?
- What are their office hours and availability like?
- How many faculty members are there, and what research topics are they pursuing?
- How many hours of coursework and/or research do they expect on a weekly basis?
- Are there opportunities to be TA’s, or research assistants?
- Are there any mentoring opportunities?
- How diverse is the faculty?
- What kind of skills do they expect students to come in with?
- What distinguishes your programs and faculty from other colleges and universities?
It’s never a bad idea to try to hook up with current and former graduate students and ask them these questions as well, as they will most likely be able to give you a more unbiased review of the faculty. Try to schedule a campus tour if you can and attend informational sessions; this is a great way to connect with faculty and students.
Research
- What research opportunities are available to students?
- What are the research requirements?
- Do they require any undergraduate research experience?
- How is research funded at the university?
- Do students often work in addition to doing research?
Different programs have different research options and requirements, so asking these questions is imperative. Research is also a great way to prepare yourself for your future career, and some universities even allow you to exchange research hours to earn money for tuition and living expenses.
Career Support
The whole point of attending graduate school is to advance your career, so don’t forget to ask questions about career support! Think about your goals after graduation, and then ask questions to help determine whether this school and program will help you reach those goals. What kind of professional opportunities and salary are you looking for?
Some good questions to ask would be:
- What career support services are available to students, such as career counseling, job fairs, and alumni networking?
- What have students gone on to do after graduating?
- What is the placement rate after graduation?
- Are there any professional development opportunities available prior to graduation?
These can help you build your skills and experience which will in turn make you a more marketable candidate post-graduation.
Student Life
You may be a full-time student, but you’re still entitled (and encouraged) to have a happy and balanced social life. We recommend asking what kind of work/life balance is expected of students, as well as what kind of social and emotional support is available to students.
- What accommodations does the university make to ensure they are inclusive to students’ identities?
- What kind of social life exists in and around the campus?
- What is the cost of living?
Knowing this information can help you connect with other students, your cohort, and having good relationships with your peers is very important when it comes to succeeding in academics. It’s always good to have a support system.
All these questions will help you not only show your best self, and your enthusiasm for your program, but they will also help you discover if this university and program is truly the best fit for you. There are so many education options available that you don’t need to settle. Do your research before applying for a program and ensure that it’s the right place for you to pursue your academic and career goals.
Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.
