Only have ten minutes to talk with a recruiter or program representative? This gives you enough time to ask three, maybe five questions, so you’ll want to think in advance about what information is most important to you. Here are some tips:
Before speaking with recruiters, do your own research and see how many questions you can answer using the program’s website. This will help you identify your short list of remaining questions to ask.
Ask the questions whose answers you feel are essential to your graduate school search or are most meaningful to you. Think, “what can I learn from a recruiter that isn’t on the website or in the brochure”?
What you ask says a lot about you. Treat this time as a chance to make a first impression that shows you are inquisitive and motivated to learn about your options as a prospective graduate student.
As you get started in thinking about graduate schools, you may want to think about the following topic areas relative to particular programs: admissions processes, financial aid availability, type of program curriculum and student support resources, campus culture, professional development resources, logistics (housing and transportation).
Specific questions about each of these areas are available below. We hope you will take time to review this list and highlight a few questions you feel are most important to your decision-making process. Remember that some questions might prompt longer answers from recruiters than others. Plan your time accordingly and arrange your list so that you start with the most important questions. You can keep a few back-up questions on hand in case you have extra time in your one-on-one session.
How much does the program cost overall (tuition, student fees, etc.)?
What types of aid are available to me? Are there scholarships, grants or loans that I can apply for?
What criteria are used to award scholarships?
Does the department provide assistantships, fellowships, or grants?
Is there funding available through teaching associate or research assistant positions?
Is funding available year-round?
Does the program expose students to a variety of viewpoints and theoretical approaches or does the program have a particular emphasis to it?
Does your program place an emphasis on research, theory, or practical experience?
What are some of the research interests of the faculty in this program? (Search online first!)
Will I complete an internship as part of this program? How much choice will I have about where I do my internship?
Is there a thesis, dissertation, or comprehensive examination(s) required for completion of the degree?
Are there opportunities for students in the program to conduct research or to teach undergraduate courses?
Are there any research facilities, labs, computers, or libraries on campus? Could you tell me more about these?
Is this program accredited? By whom?
How flexible is the program? Is it possible to work full-time and complete the degree as a part-time student? Is it an online program (partially or fully)?
How large is the department/program (faculty and students)? What is the typical cohort size and class size (faculty/student ratio)?
Are students assigned an advisor or do they select one?
How would you describe the sense of community on campus or within this program?
Are there student organizations I can be involved in as a graduate student to supplement my studies?
What campus resources would be available to me as a graduate student in your program?
How can I get connected with alumni from this program to ask them about their experiences?
What professional development resources are available through the program or the university?
What resources do you provide to assist students in finding jobs, internships and/or research opportunities? Do you offer career counseling?
Are students permitted to work while enrolled in this program?
How/where do students find part-time employment on or off campus?
Will completion of the program meet the educational requirements for licensure or certification needed to enter a particular occupation?
What types of career options can come from a degree in this field?
Where are the graduates of the program employed?
What percentage of your graduates is employed in a relevant field upon graduation?
Is there graduate student housing on campus? If so, what does it cost and where is it located?
What resources are available for graduate students to find off-campus housing?
What is the cost of living in the area?
What type of transportation is available in the area? Is it free for students?
Is parking easily available? How much does it cost?
Do you have any departmental open houses or information sessions coming up?
Whom may I contact from the department to learn more information about the program (faculty, students, alumni)?
Would it be possible for me to arrange a campus visit and meet with representatives from the program?
May I contact you if I have additional questions (ask for a business card)? Is there another contact person who can address my questions before and/or after arriving on campus?
These questions are courtesy of San Jose State University. Many thanks to their Office of Graduate Studies.