INSIDE THE GRADUATE SCHOOL
ADMISSIONS DEPARTMENT

It varies by graduate program and discipline. Each graduate program has an admissions committee that will review applications using their own established criteria to review and compare applicants for admission. Applicants would do well to communicate with the intended program of admission to try to determine for themselves what the admissions committee is looking for in an ideal applicant.

Alternatively, they could also speak to a current graduate student in that program to gain insights from them. I do think it’s fair to say that all graduate programs are looking to create a cohort of students who have the capacity to enhance the conversation in the classroom and make a significant difference in their field of study. Of course, research-based programs also look for an aligned research interest with faculty in that particular program.

Qualifications will differ among institutions. So check with specific programs to know what is required. In general terms, applicants for BYU and other grad programs must have the following:

• Evidence of a 4-year U.S. bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• At least a 3.0 GPA
• English proficiency (for International and LPR applicants who are non-native English speakers)

Keep in mind these are minimum requirements. At any institution you’ll want to study the specific qualifications for the program to which you’re applying. Keep in mind, however, that while GPA and test scores are important for graduate admissions, there are other qualifying factors to consider. For certain programs fieldwork, work experience and research, for example, may carry more significance than grades and test scores alone.

Like many schools, applications for graduate school at BYU are available and submitted online. There are, however, institutions that still accept paper applications. Inquire with the programs to which you’re applying their process for submitting application materials.

At BYU, International transcripts and degree certificates are mailed to a third party credential evaluation service provider. This varies among institutions, however, and students should inquire with their prospective programs. Required test scores through ETS or TOEFL or IELTS can all be sent electronically to a majority of institutions, including BYU, at the request of the applicant. For professional programs — think MBA — an admissions committee will weigh work experience and goals differently than a research-based program. There are a number of programs that also request an interview during the process, though not all programs require this application component.

As mentioned previously, we suggest applicants visit with current students in their program of interest and with graduate coordinators so they understand what the department is looking for and how they can best showcase that in their application materials. For example, if you’re applying for a research-based program, aligning yourself with a faculty member who is doing research that interests you is always beneficial, as they can advocate for your admission. In addition, applicants should submit their materials as soon as possible to allow for full consideration.

Yes. That said, we encourage prospective students to do as much of their own due diligence before contacting the admissions office.

• Generally, don’t have your parents submit your application for you.
• Don’t be rude or demeaning in your communication with the admissions staff regarding your application.
• Don’t procrastinate submitting your application.
• Don’t just assume that your recommenders will write a favorable letter.
• Don’t give up if you are not recommended for admission.
• Be proactive in the process and know what your responsibilities are.
• Communicate with the graduate program that you intend to apply to and make yourself known to key people by asking questions.
• Be positive.

This is subjective and varies by graduate program — each admissions committee will review the statement of intent or admissions essay using its own established criteria or rubric to review and compare applicants.