your personal statement should demonstrate that you have thought deeply about why you are making the decision to go to grad school and that you are an excellent fit for your target school. sound a little challenging? don’t worry, these personal statement examples will break down the strategy of writing a strong graduate school application.

comparing graduate school personal statement examples

below i will share two examples of personal statements. the first has a strong writing approach, but the second lacks clarity and may cause confusion for its reader. then i will describe the strengths and weaknesses of each example.

introduction paragraph examples:

ex. 1-strong) the ocean is as fundamental to our lives as any other ecological habitat, so why don’t we have systems in place to treat it that way? growing up in monterey, california i was first introduced to marine biology through my advanced placement biology class. while in community college i helped form a student-led monthly beach clean-up team. this rewarding experience led me to pursue an undergraduate degree in biology with an emphasis in ocean preservation. my passion for developing innovative and culturally informed approaches to marine preservation on a global scale have led me to pursue a doctorate in the field of marine biology. my desired research focus will explore solutions to the impacts of micro plastics in our ocean.

ex. 2-weak) yea sure, the ocean is in a devastated condition, but what are we going to do about it? well, with my degree in bio i plan to get a phd in marine biology to help figure out how to address micro plastics in our ocean. i know so much already, and i just know that with a phd i will be able to contribute on a greater scale. i know the phd is a lot of work, but i am pretty sure i will be able to complete the program and have a great time doing so. i have always wanted to live in santa barbara, and that is definitely a part of my decision to apply to your program.

diving deeper into personal statement introductions

so, let’s discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the example introductions above!

introduction paragraph “strong” example:

1. a captivating hook is provided that gives insight about the applicants research interests right away (ocean preservation).
2. the introduction paragraph briefly describes research and volunteer experience of the applicant. this signals to the reader that they are both prepared. it also shows they have a direction that they intend to take their research.
3. throughout the paragraph the applicant demonstrates that they have been involved with marine biology since high school. this is important because it demonstrates their commitment to the field early on in the essay.

introduction paragraph “weak” example:

1. the applicant does provide a hook in the form of a question. however, it is overly casual and the tone is not professional enough for graduate school applications. same thing goes for abbreviations such as “bio”.
2. the applicant is emphasizing that they “know so much”. for the sake of graduate school applications it is important to prioritize displaying a humble and gracious demeanor. this will demonstrate that you understand you have more to learn.
3. the applicant mentions a desire to live in santa barbara. while it may be true, it is not a strong enough reason to pursue a phd and signals to the admissions committee that you may be pursuing the program for the wrong reasons. keep details like this out of your personal statement and focus on reasons for applying that are academically motivated.

conclusion paragraph examples:

ex. 1-strong) as a first generation college student, and an english language learner, my journey to receive my bachelors of science in marine biology has been tough. along the way i have developed leadership skills, research and lab experience, as well as a refined passion for the work that marine biologists are able to do when informed by the local community members. i desire to continue my studies with an emphasis on ocean preservation research through the innovative and unique phd program offered at uc santa barbara. it would be an honor to work with dr. jonas mendoza and dr. raquel pacheco, two professors whose work aligns with my research interests and who have been welcoming and encouraging through our email correspondence. while my research goals are ambitious, i am confident that your program offers the resources and mentorship required for a unified effort to resolve the impact that microplastics have on not only human life, but all marine animals and ecosystems.

ex2. -weak) i think it’s a miracle that i even completed my b.s degree! that’s how i know that with the funding and laid back atmosphere at uc santa barbara i can definitely complete the phd. i’m not so interested in the teaching part, or the amount of course work i would be required to take, but i just know that once i get out there and get into the water, it will all be worth it. my research experience is competitive and top-notch, i am a great person to work with and easily make friends. i am hopeful to hear back and excited for the next steps! thanks for reading this far.

conclusion paragraph “strong” example

1. the first two sentences are reiterating some of the major points that the applicant would have provided details about in the body of the essay. this helps the reader to remember your key points.
2. the applicant also re-emphasizes who they would like to work with and that they have been in communication with them. this is a very important detail and one that will set them apart from other applicants who have not made the effort to do so. it is worth concluding with.
3. the applicant concludes by mentioning the importance of a “unified effort” for their research goals. this goes a long way to demonstrate that they understand how important collaborative effort is. this helps make an applicant more attractive in the eyes of an admissions committee that must also consider the work ethic of all applicants.

conclusion paragraph “weak” example:

1. the applicant describes their success in undergrad as a “miracle”. while they may feel this way, this language does not emphasize the skills and qualities they possess that can benefit their future studies.
2. the applicant mentions what they are not interested in. as a rule of thumb, do not use the valuable space you have in your personal statement to mention anything negative, even if there are aspects about graduate school you are not thrilled about. focus on what you are academically motivated by.
3. the applicant describes their research experience as “competitive and top-notch”. even if you have the most impressive cv, focus instead on listing what you have done, with who and what the outcomes were. let the admissions committee decide how they interpret it.

putting it all together: successful sop examples

here are two sops from graduate students who are embarking on distinct academic adventures. their stories are annotated with expert feedback from our seasoned admissions consultant.

statement of purpose #1: first, this sop for suny buffalo explores finance, showcasing a passion for financial markets and their global impact. it recounts overcoming challenges and making innovative contributions to financial econometrics, highlighting resilience and curiosity. our experts spotlight its strengths, including a strong narrative and detailed examples, and suggest areas for refinement to enhance clarity and impact.

click here to read the featured statement of purpose example

statement of purpose #2: secondly, this statement of purpose for tufts explores international affairs, showing a dedication to ethical global development and security. it traces the applicant’s journey from a pivotal experience in nicaragua to a dedicated career in development and security. our experts emphasize the engaging storytelling and focused narrative, recommending adjustments for consistency and depth to boost its persuasive impact.

click here to read the featured statement of purpose example

so, what makes a good personal statement?

your personal statement is one of many that an admissions committee will read, all to identify the strongest applicants. remember, the committee members haven’t met you yet. they rely solely on your application materials to form their first impression. leaving out crucial details is not an option.

many students find it hard to talk about themselves, often worrying it might seem like bragging. but overcoming that discomfort is essential. think of your personal statement as your first chance to introduce yourself to the committee. make it count by addressing the following key points:

who are you?

while your personal statement should personalize and humanize you as an applicant, remember that you’re more than just your gpa and transcripts. admissions committees know this. however, every detail you include must work towards crafting a profile that appeals to the committee.

are you a good fit?

what makes you prepared for the program? when discussing your academic background, be specific about what has prepared you for this program. don’t miss the chance to showcase what sets you apart from other applicants by highlighting your years of hard work.

demonstrating your fit can be challenging, especially if you’re changing careers or pursuing a new field. however, if you qualify to apply, ensure your writing clearly connects your current experience to your goals within the program. don’t assume the committee will understand how your work relates—spell out every connection and detail for them.

demonstrate that you understand appropriate and professional boundaries:

one of the most common questions my undergraduate students ask when applying to graduate school is, “how much personal information should i include in my application?” the answer: only as much as you’re comfortable sharing and only information that intentionally shapes the profile of an ideal candidate.

i advise against taking risks by including jokes, controversial opinions not already addressed by the program, or references that might cause confusion or be off-putting. keep your focus on crafting a strong, professional profile.

what do you intend to accomplish/contribute to the field?

the admissions committee wants to know: if you’re admitted to the program, then what? be clear about your goals and don’t shy away from specifics. what’s your “end goal”? if you know it, include it in your essay. if you’re still figuring it out, describe what you’re working towards more broadly.

however, avoid language that suggests uncertainty about whether graduate school is right for you. always write with confidence, showing that you’re sure of your decision, even if you’re still considering your options for after graduation.

why now?

admissions committees have been through graduate school themselves. they know it’s not a choice made just because “you don’t know what else to do.” show that you’re ready for the commitment and hard work by clearly explaining why you’ve decided that graduate school is the best option for you right now. highlight how your current and past experiences align with your intentions if admitted into the program.

a strong personal statement will address all these questions while respecting appropriate boundaries. ultimately, it will show the committee that you are prepared for the program, likely to succeed if admitted, and deeply committed to a career where the training and degree you’ll receive are crucial to your future goals.

summary and tips

the personal statement is usually just 1-2 pages. with a document this short and with so much importance towards your chances of admission, every word matters! consider these takeaways and do your research at every stage of the writing process.

brainstorm

before you start writing, gather all the information you’ll need. pull details from this blog post, the program’s official website, and any correspondence with professors or graduate students at each program you’re applying to. create a document listing every experience and detail you want to include. use this as a reference while writing to ensure you cover every important point.

proofread

don’t skip this step! reach out to current graduate students or a writing service for feedback. double-check your work for any language that’s too casual or might be off-putting or concerning to those reviewing your application.

stand out

remember, admissions committees are made up of real people who read countless applications. do your best to stand out by highlighting what truly sets you apart and the skills you’ve developed that are relevant to the program. once you have your first draft, refine your language to be both professional and captivating. don’t forget to add a little flair!

getting more help

the graduate application process is a stressful one and can seem overwhelming if you don’t have the right support. we’re here to help guide you through all steps on your journey to graduate school. check out our blog for more information and tips on the gre and graduate admissions. if you haven’t taken your gre yet, take a free practice test to jumpstart your test prep. consider a magoosh premium plan to access expert support, real ets questions, and real application essay examples. we’re here to help!

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is my college gpa good enough?

how much does gpa matter for grad school anyway?

does having a low gpa mean i should not try for certain elite grad schools?

these are just a few of the many questions that come to mind when candidates think about applying to graduate school. students know that their college performance plays a role in determining which programs are the best fit and their chances of being accepted. it’s clear that a high gpa can boost your chances, while a lower one might hold you back. but in this blog, we go beyond the obvious and explore everything you need to know about gpa for grad school.

gpa for grad school – the what, why, and how much?

what role does gpa play in grad school admissions?

gpa is just one of many factors that make up your grad school application. essays, letters of recommendation, resumes, test scores, and other aspects all come into play as the admissions team decides who to admit. so, while gpa isn’t the “end all be all” of the admissions process, it does play a specific and important role. along with your test score, your gpa serves as an indicator of your academic aptitude and potential. it helps the admissions team gauge how well you might handle the academic demands of the program.

why is gpa important for grad school?

your gpa is a straightforward way to measure your academic capability and potential, but it’s not the only method. so, why do grad schools place such importance on gpa? mainly because graduate programs are rigorous, and schools require students to maintain a certain minimum gpa to pass the program.

another reason grad schools care about your college performance is that it reflects on the school itself. a high average gpa among incoming students speaks positively about the quality and caliber of the class, showcasing the school’s ability to attract competitive candidates. this high average gpa becomes a metric that influences the school’s performance and ranking.

how much does gpa really matter?

while we don’t want to lie to you and tell you that your gpa wouldn’t matter much in your grad school application, we also want to make it clear that while it is important, there are other very important aspects of your application that matter just as much for some programs. as discussed earlier, admission committees at all grad schools take into account a number of different components of your application. there are multiple avenues to showcase your academic potential and past accomplishments. you can compensate for your low gpa with a stellar test score, through previous research activity, through letters of recommendation and your admissions essays.

what is a good gpa for grad schools?

it might sound diplomatic but the only correct answer to this question is — it depends!

it depends on the type of school you are targeting and how competitive it is.

most grad schools require a minimum gpa of 3.0, but lower-ranked universities might accept students with gpas of 2.5 or higher. on the other end of the spectrum, elite schools like harvard, stanford, and mit have much higher expectations. they typically require a minimum gpa of 3.5, with average gpas often reaching as high as 3.8.

it depends on the type of program you are applying to.

the more prestigious or popular programs at any college, like computer science or business administration, often have higher gpa expectations. for instance, an mba program at your dream school might require a minimum gpa of 3.5, even if other programs at the same school don’t. these requirements can also vary depending on your profile and experience.

to generalize, a good gpa typically falls between 3.0 and 3.5. however, for top graduate schools and their premier programs, the bar is much higher. for example, institutions like harvard and stanford usually have classes with an average undergraduate gpa of 3.5 or higher.

we strongly recommend making a list of all the grad school programs you plan to apply to and understanding the gpa expectations for each. it’s not uncommon to call the department and ask about their current gpa and test score expectations for admitted students. explore their websites to learn about current graduate students, and consider reaching out to them for a conversation over email or a quick phone call. some schools also list a minimum gpa requirement for their graduate programs on their websites.

do your research!

it’s crucial to do your own research for *each* program you’re interested in to understand their gpa expectations and see how you compare. this is the only way to determine if your gpa is competitive for a particular school. this research can also help you refine your list of target schools, giving you a clearer sense of where you should apply.

for example, harvard states in their graduate student data that the average undergraduate gpa was over 3.8. this gives candidates an idea of where they land in terms of gpa.

what to do if you have a low gpa?

firstly, it’s important to emphasize that while a strong gpa is always preferred, a lower gpa doesn’t necessarily mean rejection. it simply means you’ll need to work harder on the other aspects of your application. mba programs consider a variety of factors, so excelling in multiple areas can significantly improve your chances of getting into your dream program. here are a few ways you can overcome a low gpa:

1. tackle it head-on

   it might seem counterproductive, but addressing your low gpa can actually help the admissions committee understand the context behind it. it gives you a chance to share your side of the story and demonstrate how you’ve grown since then. avoid making excuses; instead, be candid about the reasons and focus on highlighting other aspects that showcase your academic potential.

2. get a stellar test score

   the admissions committee just wants to be sure that you can handle the rigorous academic requirements of their program. if your gpa is low, the easiest way to showcase that is by getting a great test score.

3. show academic caliber

   there are plenty of other ways to demonstrate your academic caliber. extra courses you’ve taken outside of your required curriculum can highlight your work ethic. for instance, if you scored low in data science, you could take additional courses at a local community college and present that as an alternative transcript.

4. stand out in other ways

   when grad schools evaluate your application, they take a holistic view of your entire profile, assessing how well you “fit” with the rest of the class. if you bring a unique perspective or dimension to the program, you have a strong chance of receiving that acceptance letter. high-quality work experience can help you stand out from the crowd, and your awards, achievements, and extracurricular activities also play a crucial role.

takeaways

a low gpa doesn’t need to sink your grad school admission chances. great test scores and excellent application essays are two powerful mitigators against a low gpa. we want to help you achieve both! consider a magoosh premium plan to get expert gre support and expert guidance (including real essay examples) on writing your essays!

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applying to graduate school and choosing academic writing that showcases your academic excellence can be challenging. don’t worry! although your writing sample is crucial, it doesn’t need to be perfect. it should effectively communicate, demonstrate your potential for advanced academic work, and importantly, show your ability to specialize in a program’s field of interest. we offer tips to help you select the best writing sample for your graduate school.

use an appropriate professional style guide

your writing sample should show topical expertise, but also an understanding of professional research. find the standard style guide for your chosen field, and make sure it’s applied consistently–not just citations, but also any formatting for cover pages, pages numbers, and bibliographies.

keep it relevant

select a sample that closely reflects your areas of potential interest. this means the sample with the highest grade may not be the best. it may be worthwhile to revise a b+ paper and use it a writing sample if it’s more relevant to the field you want to study than that a paper from a different academic area.

take your time!

if there’s no obvious pick that’s ok. don’t rush when selecting a writing sample. instead, take some time to review your options–pick something that will make an impression on the admissions committee, and don’t be afraid to revise. you may be tempted to write something new for submission – this is almost always a bad idea. remember that previous work has been written for a reason and has likely seen feedback from trusted advisors.

make sure it is free of errors

as already hinted, you may need to edit the sample you choose. remember you want to express your professional readiness for advanced studies with your writing sample, so triple check for typographical and other errors before submitting it with your application package.

follow the instructions!

pay close attention to any requirements set out for you application materials, and make sure you meet the required length. typically, you don’t want to exceed them either–more is not always better. remember that graduate applications are also about showing that you can follow directions.

structure and organization matter!

academic writing should be a well written with a concise beginning, clear middle and an effective end. make sure that each part of your essay is clear, compelling, and, well, present in your writing sample. even the most brilliant ideas and research get lost in a poorly structured essay.

showcase your research skills!

this can take different forms depending on your field. if you’re applying to an experiment-driven program in physics or sociology you may need to demonstrate your grasp of research best practices in field. in a scholarly program such as history or literature you may need to demonstrate a meaningful grasp of research with primary documents, or applying specific methodologies in analysis.

demonstrate your critical thinking

a strong writing sample showcases your critical thinking skills, which means evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of a prevailing view and drawing conclusions based on evidence. your writing should engage with existing work in the field. in the writing sample, you show the reader what you already know and what questions you want to explore.

reveal yourself as an effective communicator

finally, choosing a well-written academic paper for your application involves communicating complex ideas effectively, whether your own or others’ (with proper attribution). the best samples balance engaging with existing ideas and introducing your own. this balance is crucial for grad school success, offering a chance to showcase this skill and engage your reader through your writing sample.

takeaways

in conclusion, we know that applying for graduate school can be a stressful process. we’re here to help you navigate the ups and downs. check out more helpful tips and articles demystifying graduate school admissions on our blog. looking for help with your application essays? we have samples of real personal statements that got people accepted to graduate programs – with our expert feedback to help you write your essays. need more help? consider a magoosh premium plan to access more application essay examples, expert gre support, and best in the field gre prep.

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before we get into ways to cope and determine your next steps, i’m sorry you didn’t get into grad school. a grad school rejection can be incredibly hard to deal with – we know from experience.

to start, it’s okay to feel upset, disappointed, or any other emotion. rejections are tough, and that’s completely normal. grad school applications are long, complex, and exhausting. after months of effort, receiving rejections can be not only disappointing and demoralizing but also confusing. if you worked hard and already pictured yourself attending the school, the rejection will sting.

while we don’t recommend dwelling on it for days, it’s okay to acknowledge your sadness and take a break before deciding if you want to re-apply. after a little time to process, it’s important to build yourself back up and figure out what’s next. below, we’ve outlined steps that have worked well for students (and ourselves) in the past—whether you choose to re-apply or move forward with a new plan.

put things in perspective

if i were you, i’d try to put a positive spin on what might feel like a “dream-crushing” experience. why? because graduate schools will still be there next year and the year after that. the key is to pick yourself up and keep going. there are plenty of motivational posters (the kind you saw in middle school) that remind you to work hard, not give up, and keep your chin up. get past the cheesy stuff and choose one to be your motivator.

if you’re truly interested in learning how to get into grad school, the lessons from this setback will make you more prepared for the next admissions cycle. think of it this way: you now have insight into what kind of candidate doesn’t get accepted, and you’ve got 8-10 months to transform yourself into the kind of candidate who does!

start by reminding yourself that rejections are incredibly common. space is limited, and not every qualified applicant gets in every time. even sergey brin, the founder of google, was rejected from mit before applying to and graduating from stanford university! each year, we see students who were previously rejected get into programs—sometimes even the very program that turned them down before—when they reapply.

the grad school evaluation process considers dozens of factors for thousands of applicants, trying to determine the ‘ideal fit’ for their program in just a few minutes. it’s far from perfect. so, remember that rejection from your dream school isn’t a judgment of your self-worth, hard work, or intelligence. stay focused on your larger goal and keep working towards it—whether that involves a graduate degree or not.

moreover, rejections can sometimes be a chance to find clarity and move forward more certain and focused on your next steps.

then, start think about what’s next

after you’ve (if you’re like me) shed some tears over your rejection and accepted that it can happen to anyone, the next step is to pause and reflect on what it means to you. set aside an hour for some self-introspection and try to answer the following questions:

1. do i actually care that i didn’t get in, or is it just my ego that’s hurt?
2. is grad school the correct path for me? or can i achieve my career goals through other paths that i’d probably enjoy more?
3. can the time, effort, and money needed to get into my dream school be better invested somewhere else?

one note on introspection – it doesn’t have to be done in front of your computer! sitting at your favorite coffee shop, going on a walk, or meditating are all great ways to reflect.

this introspection will help you understand what the rejection truly means to you and whether you care enough to reapply next year. if you’re still determined to give it another shot, remind yourself that this rejection just means you need more experience or time to succeed in your mission. then, move on to the next step.

(if you decide to re-apply) determine how you can improve your application

once you’ve decided to reapply next cycle, the first and most important step is to identify where you can improve your application. there could be many different reasons, so it might be helpful to discuss them with a few friends or mentors to see where you can strengthen your chances.

while late or incomplete applications, missing recommendation letters, or low test scores are common reasons for rejection, sometimes it’s the more nuanced aspects of your profile that hold you back. things like a ‘lack of leadership or volunteer experience’ or a ‘lackluster personal statement’ could be the factors standing in your way.

examine every part of your application with an eye on both substance and style. consider not only the content you’ve written and the skills you’ve highlighted but also how you present the information and the stories you choose to share.

another crucial aspect is to review your work experience and how it aligns with your goals. have you clearly explained your aspirations and career objectives in your application? sometimes, connecting the dots between your past experience and future goals is what makes or breaks an application!

we often get asked if it’s okay to reapply and whether you’ll be penalized for doing so. let me clear this up once and for all: no! any negative connotation around reapplying is completely misleading. if anything, the admissions team appreciates dedication and persistence. what they don’t like is seeing the same candidate with the same application year after year. so, make sure to work on your application, address your shortcomings, and genuinely enhance your profile before reapplying.

go straight to the source

while you should definitely review your own application, the best way to understand what led to a rejection is to follow up with an admissions officer at the school you applied to. it’s not always possible—schools have different policies on this—but it’s worth asking!

when requesting personalized feedback from the admissions team, approach it with professionalism and humility. start with a thank-you note for reviewing your application, then gently request insights on what could be improved next time. ask if they might be willing to schedule a brief phone call or share feedback via email. i also recommend expressing your continued excitement for the school and your intention to reapply as a stronger candidate.

be respectful of their time and input. whether the feedback is about this year’s mistakes or steps to follow next year, advice from the admissions team can significantly boost your chances for acceptance next time. plus, it might be noted in your file that they took the time to speak with you!

try all avenues available

whether or not you hear back from the admissions team, seeking additional feedback is always valuable. start by reaching out to faculty from the school to see if they’re willing to review your application and offer personal advice. while it’s helpful to consult mentors or friends who helped with your original application, it’s crucial to seek fresh perspectives as well.

studying the program’s admitted class profile can be helpful (here’s an example from uc berkeley’s mba program). this provides valuable insight into the type of academic and professional experience the admissions team considers worthy of admission. if you notice many admitted candidates with similar backgrounds, you’ll realize the importance of making your application unique and compelling to stand out.

was it my test score?

you might also be asking yourself the all-too-common question: how much of a factor was my test score?

believe it or not, a perfect score won’t guarantee admission to your dream school. however, a very low score can hurt your chances of getting into a school that should be within your reach, given your gpa, experience, and letters of recommendation.

if you received an okay gre score, say 152 on both sections, the gre might not be what’s holding you back. other factors, like omissions or weaker aspects of your record, could have influenced the admissions board’s decision. that said, improving your gre score could help offset these other components—especially those that are more fixed, like your undergraduate gpa.

on the other hand, if you scored in the low 140s, your gre score could have been a factor in your rejection. if you find yourself in this group, don’t lose heart. you can improve your score (i often see magoosh students increase their scores by 16 points). by doing so, you can also improve your chances of getting accepted the second time around.

but i don’t just want to give you a pep talk and a pat on the back. increasing your score, even by 10 points, means you’ll need to work not just harder, but smarter. when reapplying, you usually have the advantage of time. use that time wisely and put in the effort to improve your score!

remember – you can never know for sure

grad school applications assess more than just your qualifications. the admissions team also considers the school’s strengths and weaknesses, faculty preferences, the size and diversity of the cohort they’re building, and often the available funding.

sometimes, when you get rejected, it has nothing to do with you. while it’s crucial to analyze your application, talk to professionals, and identify 2-3 areas for improvement before reapplying, it’s also important to recognize that there’s an element of luck in the process. your job is to put your best foot forward based on the information you have.

start working with a fresh perspective

along with gathering information and identifying ways to strengthen your profile, it’s equally important to approach the application process with a fresh perspective. can you see yourself as a brand new applicant, rather than carrying the weight of previous rejections?

additionally, consider how you’ll manage stress during the application process. you’re going to go through it again. how can you make it feel more manageable and positive this time around?

need more support with reapplying?

we’re here to help! check out our graduate admissions blog for more information about strengthening the non-test portions of your application. then take a free practice test to see what your gre score is at now that it’s been awhile since test day. you may have taken the gre before the test format changed, so be sure to learn about the new, shorter exam. a proven study plan is a great way to stay on track with your test prep and make sure you’re learning everything you need. finally, consider a magoosh premium plan to access expert gre and admissions support, including real ets questions, custom practice, detailed explanations for all problems, and real application essay examples.

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why strong personal statements are so important for graduate school

in your psychology graduate degree application, the personal statement is crucial. it showcases your academic achievements, personal journey, career goals, and why you’re a great fit for the program. this is your chance to move beyond mere statistics—gpa, test scores, work experience—and tell your unique story. crafting a compelling personal statement requires insight, precision, and guidance. however, finding quality personal statement for graduate school examples can be challenging. magoosh is committed to supporting graduate applications with detailed analyses, specific feedback, and comprehensive support throughout the admissions process.

spotlight on successful psychology personal statements: essay 1

we’re excited to showcase two standout personal statement for graduate school examples covering two different psychology tracks. the first, used to apply to columbia university, explores the therapeutic power of storytelling in the aftermath of trauma and the writer’s dedication to studying the pathways from traumatic experiences to psychopathology. this essay seamlessly weaves together the applicant’s academic pursuits and professional experiences, underlining a deep-seated commitment to understanding and fostering resilience and growth post-trauma.

click here to read the featured clinical psychology phd program personal statement

spotlight on successful psychology personal statements: essay 2

second, written for uc berkeley, takes us on a captivating journey—from volunteering in haiti to navigating the urban complexity of new york, and finally, to a meaningful role in tutoring across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. this narrative eloquently captures the author’s evolving insight into the significant role counseling plays in psychological well-being and the drive to effect change within the psychology field.

click here to read the featured counseling psychology master’s program personal statement

examples with expert annotated feedback

our feedback on each personal statement highlights strengths, suggests improvements, and offers strategic advice to boost the essay’s impact and emotional appeal. this feedback reflects our thorough grasp of the admissions process and our dedication to helping candidates refine their narratives.

now explore our personal statements and expert commentary for inspiration on your application narratives. whether starting your essay or finalizing it, our resources, expertise, and support guide you through the admissions journey.

finally, we want to help you create a personal statement that surpasses admissions expectations, compellingly showcasing your unique story. explore our blog for further tips. consider a magoosh premium plan to get access to expert gre and admissions help, including more examples of successful application essays.

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when researching the graduate programs i was applying for, i panicked when i read that cvs for grad school were a common application requirement. i knew a cv was something like a resume, but i had no idea what one looked like. if you feel similarly unprepared for this major requirement of the graduate admissions application, don’t stress! we’ve got the answers to the most common questions. we even have a template to help you create a cv that will impress any graduate admissions committee!

what is a cv and how does it compare to a resume?

to define a cv, let’s first look at a resume, as it is more well-known and widely-used.

resume

a resume (or industry cv to some) is a document used when applying for professional experiences, such as jobs or internships, to give the hiring committee/manager a snapshot of your qualifications. it often includes your contact information, education, work experience, skills and certifications, and references. resumes are meant to be brief overviews, so they are usually 1-2 pages long with minimum elaboration.

curriculum vitae (cv)

an academic curriculum vitae (cv) is a document used when applying for academic experiences, such as graduate school or fellowships, to give the admissions committee a thorough understanding of your academic experience with your chosen field of study. similarly to a resume, you still include contact information, education, and professional experience, but the cv has areas built in for more elaboration such as: publications, conferences, teaching experiences, honors and awards, etc. because a cv is a more in-depth document, they tend to be 2+ pages long. the more experience, the longer the cv.

important note: pay close attention to your program and university admission requirements. there are some programs (like mba programs) that require resumes instead of cvs. likewise, there are some universities that require graduate school resumes instead of cvs. always tailor your admissions application to the program/university for which you are applying.

what should i include in my cv for graduate school?

the good thing about a cv is that it allows for more individual tailoring toward your unique experience. there is information you should always include and there are definitely things you’ll want to include if you can, but you get to choose what gets showcased. we will be detailing below the must have and the most common categories that are included on a cv, but if you have other experiences that don’t quite fit the given categories we provide, adapt your cv to you!

the “must have” categories

• personal contact information
  • name, address, phone number, and email
• research interests
  • 1-2 sentences on what you are interested in researching at the university
• educational background
  • undergrad and post-undergrad education only
• relevant employment/work experience
  • include employment that is relevant to what you are applying to do. don’t put your summer lifeguard job down for your chemistry graduate application!

the “if you have it, include it!” categories

• teaching experience
• research experience
• leadership or collaborative experience
• relevant volunteer experience
• relevant extracurriculars
• publications
• conference presentations
• fellowships/grants/scholarships
• honors and awards
• relevant certifications
• academic/professional memberships
• notable courses
• languages

what if i don’t have enough experience?

we are all unique, so every cv will look different. if you are noticing you do not have the experience you need or want for a category, don’t be discouraged! you have some options.

option 1 – leave it off

the first option is to leave that category off completely. when i applied for my psychology phd, i did not have any academic research experience even though i knew the admissions committee would be looking for it. what i chose to do instead of making something irrelevant fit was to leave the research category off of my cv and spend more space highlighting my professional work experience and my research interests.

option 2 – get the experience

another option is to find opportunities to get experience in those areas. if you do not have any conference presentations or any publications, but you know that would benefit your cv, start connecting with some of your professors or even your current employer and ask if there are any opportunities to be involved in those experiences.

option 3 – ask!

if you are concerned that your lack of experience will disqualify you from admissions, you can always ask. reach out to the graduate admissions advisors or a department faculty member and ask if it is a concern and what advice they have for you to gain that experience before you apply. when in doubt, always ask!

how should my cv look?

keep it clean

the admissions committee has to read a lot of cvs, so making it harder on them to read will hurt your chances. your graduate admissions cv is not the time for elaborate fonts, colors, or graphics. you want something that is easy to read and easy to navigate. you have plenty of work you need to do on your application, so don’t waste your time trying to format a document. there are a lot of well-formatted, free and paid resume and cv templates that are available online (we have one too! check it out!).

keep it simple

when writing your cv, write clearly and directly. start descriptions and bullet points with action verbs and use clear sentence structures focused on one idea. avoid repeating information (including action verbs), and when revising, take out unnecessary words and phrases.

keep it logical

the organization of your cv is ultimately up to you and what you feel best tells your story, but you need to make sure it follows a logical progression. for example, i wouldn’t want to talk about my education experience, go to my volunteer experience, then circle back to my education experience. chunk like categories as much as possible and introduce broader ideas (education) before getting into the more narrow categories (research and teaching experience).

a final note, when organizing within sections, always follow reverse chronological order with the most recent and relevant experience listed first.

how can i make my cv stand out?

here are a few suggestions on how to make your cv stand out:

1. tailor to the university. different universities value different traits and different levels of experience. research the university and the program and take notes on what they are looking for in their current and future grad students. be sure to highlight those traits and experiences in your cv.
2. use powerful language. saying exactly what you mean in a short amount of space with a strong vocabulary and clear sentences communicates to the faculty that written communication is a strength.
3. focus on your results and accomplishments instead of your responsibilities. for example, instead of saying, “managed a team of six.” say, “lead a team of six to become the highest ranking sales team in the company through the implementation of metric analysis.” if you can make your accomplishments and results quantifiable, do it!

takeaways

your cv is an incredibly important part of your application for the graduate admissions committee and for you. not only does it reveal a lot about yourself and your background to the admissions committee, but it is the culminating list of everything you have done to get to this moment. all of the hard work, all of the sacrifice, all of the growth you’ve experienced will be here, on this document, and everything you learn and experience in grad school will only be added to it. congrats on getting here! you got this!

need more help with completing your cv for grad school? wondering about other aspects of the graduate application? consider a magoosh premium plan which gets you access to expert gre help and examples of real cvs from admitted graduate and mba students.

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figuring out who to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school is often a frustrating and stressful task for grad school hopefuls. regardless of the type of grad program you are applying for, you will likely need at least one letter of recommendation vouching for you and your work – ideally from a trusted, authoritative source. but who qualifies as a trusted, authoritative source?!

more often than not, if you find yourself wondering who to ask for a letter of recommendation, you need to think about all of the people who know you either personally or professionally. this is by far the most important factor. you cannot simply ask a random person of high esteem for a recommendation letter. instead, you should ask yourself: who knows me best and can write me the strongest letter possible.

who should you ask to write your grad school applications?

when applying to graduate programs like an mba, master’s of data science, a phd in a niche field, or others, you need references to attest to your character, intelligence, work ethic, and talent. for master’s or phd applicants in humanities or stem, having an advisor who can discuss your field experience is crucial. this is less critical for mba candidates.

here are a few questions to consider when determining who to ask for letters of recommendation:

• how well does this person know me?
• does this person have a generally positive view of me?
• is this person relevant to the field of study i’m interested in going into?
• is this person someone i’ve worked closely with?
• has this person been my professor, my manager, or my employer?

it is important to note that you should not cherry-pick these questions. ask all of them about each potential “candidate.”

professors or employers?

professors are ideal for a letter of recommendation for an academic-focused graduate school, as admissions committees value letters from those who have directly assessed your academic work. for professionally focused programs, managers from your work environment may offer more beneficial recommendations.

choose former or current professors or managers who value your work and relationship. a professor who praised your work or a manager who witnessed your professional achievements makes a great choice. similarly, if you’ve assisted a professor with relevant tasks or engaged in discussions during office hours, they’re well-positioned to write a strong recommendation letter. ideally, you would get at least one recommendation from someone who works or teaches in a field directly related to the program you are applying to.

how many recommendation letters do you need?

often graduate programs will ask you for up to three letters of recommendation, which can feel daunting as an applicant. however, this doesn’t mean that you should send out a mass email to every former professor or employer you know. focus your attention on the people who know you best, have the highest credentials, and are most likely to write a great letter on your behalf!

when choosing recommenders for grad school, avoid friends and family, regardless of their credentials. admissions boards may view this as a conflict of interest, potentially leading to a rejected application. also, avoid using graduate students who’ve worked with you as tas or instructors. opt for individuals with graduate degrees and professor titles whenever possible.

how to ask for letters of recommendation for grad school

once you know who to ask for letters of recommendation, you have to actually sit down and write out requests to each person. while you can have a template, always remember to address each person by their name and personalize your requests! avoid phrases like “to whom it may concern.” instead, write a professional email that gets straight to the point while also explaining the circumstances thoroughly. here is a good template to write your first ask email.

what should i include in my request?

when requesting a letter of recommendation for graduate school, be sure to include details about the graduate program and, more importantly, your qualifications. you could be writing to a professor you have not seen in 10 years. so, they may need a reminder of who you are and what you can do. it can be helpful to include a draft of you personal statement or statement of purpose and samples of your past or current work. providing little or no information about what you need and your qualifications will often result in a lower success rate.

when someone agrees to write a recommendation letter for you, make sure to give them a clear deadline. you should try to ask for them to finish no less than two to three weeks before you need it. ideally, you should broach the subject of a recommendation a few months in advance of when you need it. this way, the person has plenty of time to sit down and write an authentic, sincere letter of recommendation – and gives you time in case you need to find an additional recommender.

one more note – if you’re planning to ask a professor or other type of educator, keep in mind that they may be planning to be away from their office during the summer and winter holidays!

what happens if they say no?

so what happens if the person says no or does not respond at all? unfortunately, there is really not much you can do in this case besides following up politely. if someone does not want to write a letter, they likely have a reason for it. most professors and employers frequently write letters of recommendation and are happy to help aspiring graduate students, so if you get a rejection move on to the next person on your list.

finally, a thank you note to your recommenders is always a good idea. after your applications are submitted, go ahead and send them a short, warm email or handwritten thank you note. if you need tips on writing a good thank you note, you can find them here.

takeaways

letters of recommendation can be an extremely important part of your application. but, they are just one component. you want to make sure that you are putting the same time and energy into the rest of your application as you do securing good letters. need to improve your gre score or nail your application essays? consider a magoosh premium plan to access expert test prep support, custom practice, detailed explanations and lessons, and guided admissions help – including real application essay examples!

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