Being a competitive candidate
What makes a competitive grad school applicant?
Getting into graduate or professional school takes more than meeting the minimum requirements. Competitive applicants match or exceed the average profile of students already in the program. Admissions teams weigh five key factors: GPA, test scores, relevant experience, references and networking, and application materials. This page breaks down what reviewers are actually looking for in each area and gives you practical steps to strengthen your candidacy before you apply.
Grade-point average
3.0 is often the minimum, but the average GPAs of graduate students are often much higher. Some programs weigh grades in specific courses more heavily. For medical school, for example, performance in the science prerequisites counts heavily.
Tips
- Focus on getting good grades, especially in upper-level courses and prerequisites
- Many graduate programs value excellent recent academic performance for admittance
Test scores
Test type and score requirements vary by institution and program. There are minimum scores you must obtain to be considered, but the average scores of the students in the program are often much higher. Some programs place more emphasis on particular sections of the test, for example, quantitative versus verbal. Be sure to check each program for specifics.
Tips
- Set time aside for studying and familiarizing yourself with the test format
- Consider taking a test-preparation course for required entrance exams if you typically struggle with standardized testing
- Use free or paid study resources, visit the Vol Study Center for studying strategies, and take practice exams
Relevant experience
Experience gained through internships, fieldwork, practicums, volunteering, independent study, and research gives admissions committees concrete evidence of your commitment and fit for the field. Relevant experience also deepens your understanding of the discipline and helps you build the professional network that strengthens your application.
Tips
- Stay current on what skills your field values most, whether technical, analytical, creative, or communicative, and work to build them
- Sharpen your writing and research skills now; both transfer directly to graduate-level work
- Say yes to faculty research opportunities whenever they arise, since faculty-led research is a high-value experience that can give you a competitive edge
- Find research opportunities through the Office of Undergraduate Research & Fellowships
References and networking
Networking isn’t just important in the job search. References and effective networking with faculty and staff can sometimes move your application to the top of the stack. Look for any opportunity to make contacts at your home institution, at institutions of interest, and in your field of interest.
Tips
- Set up informational interviews with people in the field or alumni of the graduate program you are considering
- Visit your top graduate schools and request an appointment for an informational interview with the chair of the program or a professor associated with it
Your application materials
Your GPA and test scores tell an important part of the story, but your application materials tell the rest. Strong materials give reviewers a fuller picture of who you are as a candidate: your writing ability, organizational skills, and the experiences that make you a strong fit. This is your opportunity to represent yourself beyond the numbers.
Tips
- Use resources for writing top-notch resumes, personal statements, and essays, and get your materials reviewed by many people, including your career coach, the Writing Center, and faculty mentors
- Develop and maintain a portfolio, including letters of reference, writing samples, and relevant projects
More in Prepare for Graduate School
Application materials
Build the essays, personal statement, resume, and portfolio that make up your application packet.
How to apply
Walk through the application process step by step, from requesting materials to submitting.
Funding grad/professional school
Find assistantships, fellowships, and other ways to pay for graduate or professional school.
Is grad school right for you?
Weigh whether graduate or professional school fits your goals before you commit.
Professional school resources
Get resources specific to medical, law, and other professional school paths.
Selecting a school and program
Compare programs and choose the schools that match your goals and profile.
Ready to build your strongest application?
Building a competitive application is a process, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. Your career coach can help you assess your candidacy, identify gaps, and build a plan. Make an appointment today to get started.
Career Coaching & Education
Center for Career Development & Academic Exploration
201 Student Union, 1502 Cumberland Ave, Knoxville, TN 37996
865-974-5435