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Career Services

Preparing to Apply to Graduate/Professional School

Career Services

230 Nebraska Union
(402) 472-3145

  • 20-min Walk-ins, M-F, 10-4 (Summer 10-12 and 1-3)
  • Appointments, M-F, 8-5
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Career Services East (303 ECU)
Career Services at CBA (138 CBA)

Meet one-on-one with a Career Counselor

Admissions Tests

To determine which admission tests (if any) you must take, consult the specific intstitution and programs to which you are applying. Once you have determined the test(s) you need to take, the most up-to-date information about the format and registration process are available on-line. The most common tests are:

Computer-based Testing - With the exception of the LSAT and the GRE Subject tests, which are still administered on the UNL campus in paper and pencil format, all of the above tests are administered by computer. While you may take the tests at any established center, in Lincoln:

DAT, GRE, MCAT, OAT
Prometric Testing Center
5715 S. 34th St. #300		 GMAT, PCAT
Pearson Professional Center
300 N. 44th St. #104

 

KAPLAN offers free practice tests for many of these admission test.

Timeline for Preparing and Applying

The following timeline is a suggested set of actions for a typical May graduate applying to graduate school. Timelines for health programs may vary slightly.

JUNIOR YEAR - Spring

  • Research potential programs and institutions
  • Review application process of programs of interest
  • Arrange a visit if possible
  • Develop a personal timeline for the application process
  • Write a first draft of a general personal statement and academic resume
  • Research test preparation programs and resources

JUNIOR YEAR - Summer

  • Meet with faculty members and visit Career Services to discuss your personal statement and academic resume
  • Take required admissions tests
  • Draft personal statements according to each application’s instructions
  • Order transcripts from all post-secondary institutions

SENIOR YEAR - Fall

  • Begin filling out applications
  • Re-take admissions tests if needed
  • Choose and ask writers of letters of recommendation
  • Provide all forms and information at least a month ahead
  • Submit application forms
  • Obtain appropriate interview attire
  • Schedule a mock admissions interview with Career Services

SENIOR YEAR - Spring

  • Accept or decline offers
  • Finish and submit financial aid paperwork
  • Write thank you notes to letter writers and others who helped you throughout the process
  • Share your plans with Career Services by filling out a brief survey for new graduates

Common Application Elements

  • Application form (usually on-line)
  • Application fee
  • Official scores from required exams
  • Official transcripts from all institutions
  • Academic Resume/CV
  • Essay/Personal statement
  • Recommendation Letters
  • Admission Interview