How graduate admission differs
You apply to a specific program, and the decision is made by that program's faculty, not a central office — the Graduate School handles the mechanics and the minimums (usually a completed bachelor's and a stated undergraduate GPA), but fit with the program and, for research degrees, with a potential faculty adviser is what actually decides it. Requirements, deadlines, and how selective a program is vary widely, so read the program's own page and, for a thesis or doctoral program, email a faculty member whose work matches yours before you apply.
What to submit
The graduate application and fee, official transcripts from every institution attended, and a statement of purpose that is specific (why this program, what you want to work on, how your background prepares you) rather than generic. Most programs ask for two or three recommendation letters — line those up a month ahead and give recommenders your statement and résumé. Program-specific items are common: a résumé or CV, a portfolio, a writing sample, prerequisite coursework, relevant licensure, or an interview. Test scores are required by some programs and waived or optional at others; check.
Funding is part of the application
For thesis and doctoral programs, assistantships (a stipend plus partial tuition remission for teaching, research, or project work) are usually awarded through the same process and often have an earlier priority deadline than admission itself — apply early and say you want to be considered. Course-based and professional master's programs are more often self- or employer-funded; graduate students can also borrow federal loans (file the FAFSA). The fellowships office helps competitive applicants pursue external funding.
Timing and international applicants
Research programs with funding typically want applications in the winter for the following fall; some professional and certificate programs admit on a rolling basis or in multiple terms. International applicants add English-proficiency scores, a course-by-course credential evaluation, and financial documentation for the visa document the Graduate School issues after admission — build in extra weeks for all three. Non-degree and certificate enrollment is a lighter process and can be a way to start.
Questions?
See the full staff & office directory for any phone number or email. Because this is a fictional parody site, addresses and phone numbers are illustrative and do not reach a real university.