Applying for Graduate School

Accepted at SHSU? Here are your next steps:

I was accepted to multiple programs, what should I do? 

Refer back to your compiled list of programs. Consider things like cost, location, scholarships, research opportunities, and school/campus resources. If you know who your advisor will be, you can look into their research profile and find out if their experience and interests seem like a good fit for your career goals.

After you decide which program seems like the best fit for you, check your application portal for an "Accept" option. It is also good to send a polite response to any email acceptance offers informing them that you would like to accept the offer of admission.

Once you've decided you where you are not going to attend, be sure to check your application portal, there may be an option to decline from in the portal. If this option is present, always make sure to check that box in addition to any other communications.

It is also polite - and a good idea as especially at the graduate level you may end up working with the people offering you admission - to send an email response officially rejecting the offer. Be polite and concise, there is no need to over explain. The sooner you are able to let the programs you are not attending know, the sooner they can make an offer to another prospective student.

See additional guides and templates below:

I've chosen. I've accepted. Now what?

Congratulations!

You've likely received an email from your program with information about setting up your school email and your student account, it's wise to set those things up as early as possible so you can start receiving information from your program about next steps.

If you've been provided with information about your faculty advisor, it's a good idea to reach out and introduce yourself. You don't have to say much, even just "Hello my name is _____ and I look forward to working with you", but you want to open the line of communication early. 

Make sure you're aware of any pre-registration requirements and register for your classes, fill out the FAFSA form for Federal Financial Aid, and register for orientation. 

Complete any scholarship applications and start the search for housing in the area. Some universities have housing that is specifically for graduate students, while others may have resources about apartment complexes in the area.

Don't be afraid to ask questions, especially if your program has an advising team, they are there to help!