Timeline for Applying to Graduate School

Explore graduate schools.
Contact graduate programs that interest you and request information (catalogs, applications, entrance requirements, deadlines, opportunities for financial assistance, costs, etc.)
Become familiar with faculty and research in areas of study that interest you. This may help you narrow your selection especially if location doesn’t matter as much.
Schedule to take the necessary tests for admissions, depending on what your target programs require. (Keep in mind that some programs might not require the GRE but national fellowships and other funding sources may request GRE scores).
Research other sources of financial aid.
Start thinking about your statement of purpose. Write a draft.
Consider which faculty members to ask for letters of recommendation.

Narrow your selection of graduate programs. Don’t restrict yourself to one school but don’t apply to more than one. It can become expensive since each application can cost between $50-100.
Take the necessary standardized tests for admissions (GRE, LSAT, GMAT, etc.)
Finalize your statement/essay of purpose. Ask your professors or professionals from the Career Services office to review it and give you feedback.
Ask faculty members for letters of recommendation. Provide them with a copy of your transcript, statement of purpose, and deadlines. Follow up to ensure that they meet the deadline.
Submit your applications.
Request official transcripts to be sent to each program that you apply.
Apply for assistantships and other sources of financial aid. Pay attention to deadlines!

Submit applications if you have not already done it. Even if deadlines are later, it is good to get your applications for admission and assistantship early.
Keep copies of all the applications for your records.

Follow up to ensure that all supporting documents were received.
Contact programs about the possibility of visiting. That will help you make some contacts, meet faculty and graduate students, and find more about the program.
Depending your field, start thinking about the admissions interviews. What questions to expect and what questions to ask. Prepare your answers. Contact the Career Services for a mock interview.

Fill out the Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application if you need money for graduate school. You will need your tax forms to do this.