Deciding which graduate school offer to accept is a pivotal moment in your academic and professional journey. This guide provides strategies to help you make an informed, confident decision that aligns with your goals.
Helpful Links:
10 Overlooked Questions (College Express)
Overwhelmed with the Decision? (Astrobites)
Grad Student Unions 101 (Astrobites)
There's no right or wrong answer. Everyone's graduate school circumstances are unique. Deciding your priorities will help you make the best decision for yourself.
Ask Yourself:
What are your long-term career goals?
Which program aligns best with your research interests?
What support systems (mentorship, funding, community) are essential to you?
Checklist of Priorities:
Research Focus: Does the program offer your desired research opportunities?
This could incluse access to internships, local collaborations, or government partnerships.
Advisor Fit: Will you thrive under the mentorship of your potential advisor?
Funding: Is the offer financially viable?
What is the cost of living in each area? How does this compare to your graduate pay?
How much funding does the advisor have for your research?
Location: Does the location suit your lifestyle and personal needs?
Key Questions to Consider
What is the program’s reputation in your field?
What are the graduation and job placement rates?
How long does it take for students to graduate?
Are there opportunities for collaboration, interdisciplinary work, or internships?
What are the program requirements compared to other universities?
Actionable Tips:
Reach out to current students and alumni.
Review the program’s curriculum and faculty publications.
Understand the package:
What does the stipend cover (tuition, fees, living expenses)?
Does it include access to insurance?
Does it require you buy university insurance?
Do you get an insurance stipend?
Are there teaching or research assistantships available?
Do you need to apply for external funding after your first year(s)?
Do you get a raise after passing your preliminary exams?
What are the conditions for renewing funding?
Is there a graduate student union?
Do you plan on joining? Is there a fee?
What additional funding can you get while you are a student?
Are there professional programs, similar to AGEP (link)
Are there service grants, for example getting a $500 payment for serving on the PGSG Grant Review & Allocation Committee
Conference Travel Awards
Professional Development Travel Awards
Campus culture and resources:
Is the environment collaborative or competitive?
What support services are available?
Mental Health
Career Counseling
DEI
Internship Partnerships
Questions for potential advisors:
How often will you meet?
What are their expectations for publication and conference attendance?
How do they support students’ career development?
Do they have funds for you to attend conferences?
Other Important Factors to Consider
Vehicles:
Do you need to buy a parking pass?
What kind of parking passes are available?
Childcare:
What childcare support does the university offer?
Residency Status:
Do I need to become a resident of the state the university is in?
After gathering all the information, listen to your gut. Sometimes, intangible factors like how comfortable you feel with the program’s culture can make all the difference.