For the most part, getting into college is simple. As long as you make good grades and your SAT scores are half-way decent, you know you’ll get into somewhere. However, when it comes to graduate school, it’s a whole new ball game. Most schools accept only 20 or so candidates for a program, whereas most undergraduate schools are accepting in the hundreds. It’s a painstaking, anxiety-inducing process, but one you must get through.
1. Wait. It costs how much?
On average, the cost for a Masters or other graduate degree can range from $30,000 to $120,000 dollars. Luckily, assistant-ships and financial aid are often available to offset cost.
2. I do NOT want to take the GRE.
The Graduate Record Examinations is the SAT of a Master’s degree. Another standardized test for your repertoire. Fortunately, some schools will waive this requirement if you have a high GPA, or they feel you don’t need it!
3. The GRE is $200? Girl bye.
When applying to graduate school, all of the costs add up. Quickly. Just don’t even think about it. It’ll all be fine. Maybe.
4. Do I really want to be in school for another two or more years?
After 12 years of elementary through high school, and then four years of undergraduate education, adding another two years of writing papers and doing homework seems...
5. Why do I have to pay this $60 application fee for every school I apply to? Is the $80,000 tuition not enough?
See No. 3. Just swipe the credit card and pretend it didn’t happen.
6. What even is a "good" writing sample?
The essay you write is one of the most important aspects of your application. Those who evaluate you will be looking to see if you can write effectively and have ideas that model what they are looking for.
7. Do I actually need this degree?
Unfortunately, a lot of the time you do. Just as a Bachelor’s Degree is becoming important to get entry level positions, a Master’s Degree is important to advance in your field.
8. I’m going to live off of ramen noodles for the rest of my life.
On the bright side, a box of ramen noodles is like two dollars. On the other hand, it’ll probably kill you.
9. At least I can wait longer to pay back my student loans.
Hey, who cares if you’re racking up more loans plus the interest? You’ve got two more years before you need to pay them back!
10. Which type of degree should I get?
For my program, at one school I can have a Masters of Arts, Masters of Education or a Masters of Science. They’re basically the same degree, depending on how you spin it. Talk with an academic adviser or admissions director at your school in order to figure out which plan of study will work for you.
11. Do I like this major and career field that much?
If you’re anything like me, I’ve changed my major and career path many many times. However, when you’re in a graduate program, you don’t get that luxury. Before you commit to a school, make sure you’ll like your career.
12. What if I move away from my friends and no one at the other school likes me?
With all of the debt you’re accumulating and work you’ll be putting into your degree program, you won’t have time for friends anyway. On that note, the people in your cohort will become your best friends. You’ll spend all of your time with them anyway.
13. I love this school.
When you find the school you love, it just feels right. You’ll find your home and won’t be able to imagine yourself anywhere else.
