Consider the type of graduate program you want
Master’s programs can be of different lengths and can be research-intensive or course-based. Think about the type of program that suits your academic and career goals. Two-year research-intensive programs can require coursework and a thesis. Other programs may have more coursework and a Major Research Paper. Some programs are course-based only and may have a placement or internship option. There are many professional masters that involve practicum or placement hours to prepare for a specific profession.
Research programs:
Research schools that fit with your academic and professional interests; ask faculty for recommendations of programs and faculty; find Canadian programs at universitystudy.ca
Research admissions requirements:
For each program, research the academic grades required and whether there are prerequisite courses or requirements such as an undergrad thesis. Non-academic admission requirements may include relevant volunteer or work experience and supplementary materials such as a CV or resume. Some programs may ask for test scores i.e. Psychology may require the GRE and most MBAs ask for the GMAT.
Find a supervisor:
For research-intensive programs, you typically need to contact a potential supervisor and have someone lined up before you apply. Read their biographies and research publications before contacting them.
Research funding:
Research the funding information of the school you are applying for. The Canadian and provincial governments offer a number of scholarships and bursaries. Some funding deadlines are early, for example the Canadian Graduate Scholarship Masters Program is due Dec 1st. Read guidelines carefully to ensure your program of study is eligible and you have the required grades.
Internal funding:
The program may have funding which usually involves working as a Teaching Assistant or a Research Assistant. Graduate programs can also be OSAP eligible.
Know your deadlines:
Each school has its own application deadlines, some as early as November.
Ask for references:
Approach faculty and professional references well in advance. Assist your references by providing them with your résumé or CV, and information about the program you are applying to. Ask: “Would you be willing to write me a positive reference for grad school?”
Write the personal statement or plan of study:
This essay allows you to articulate your suitability for the program. For a research-oriented program, outline your research topic and the plan to accomplish it. Ask a faculty member and Careerspace to review your statement.
Online applications:
Each school you apply to will have an online application and an application fee. Register and log on to complete the application and upload all required documents.
Careerspace and Trent’s School of Graduate Studies hosts a Graduate and Further Education Expo each fall which gives you an opportunity to explore graduate school options and speak to representatives from schools across Canada. Visit the Student Experience Portal for exact dates.
Rough Timeline for Graduate School Applications:
Summer:
- Research programs and schools. Consider visiting schools and attend an information session if applicable.
- Have a strong understanding of admission requirements
- If a standardized test is required, check dates, and make time to register, study and take practice tests.
- Visit university websites to find application deadlines which vary school to school.
- Consider individuals whom you will ask to be a reference for you.
- Investigate scholarship and financial aid options and deadlines.
Fall:
- Read the applications thoroughly and prepare any other materials requested.
- Write your personal statement / letter of intent / plan of study.
- Write your CV/Resume for programs of interest (Careerspace staff can review)
- Have faculty members, Academic Skills and Careerspace staff review statements.
- Obtain references – provide program information and sufficient time.
- Complete financial aid applications by appropriate deadline(s).
- Follow up with schools before deadlines to ensure your application is complete.
Winter:
- Continue to gather information about each institution so that when you are notified of acceptance, you can make your decision easier.
- Keep track of acceptances, wait lists and rejections.
- Visit schools that accept you.