There are different precepts that the Academic Committee considers before granting or denying an admissions chances to a post graduate student. Based on the unfolding discussions, the decision to admit or reject a student is based on varied factors, which differ by the degree of compulsion and their associated impacts to the admissions process (Sayette, Tracy, John, and Tracy 67).
With regards to an admission to the graduate school, the most compelling criterion for selection relates to the academic credentials of the student. Therefore, the scores and performance of the student is very impactful towards the admissions committee’s acceptance of denial of a chance to an applicant (College and University 2). Indeed, the committee sets its qualification threshold based on academic standards, and other factors ensue later. Most importantly, academic credential as a mode of admitting students to the post graduate programs is reflective of the inner ability and potential of a student to achieve a significant result. On the other hand, weaker academia credentials are considered deterrent to the institution’s performance, therefore, higher performers will be given a first priority over weaker performance.
On the other hand, the least considered factor refers to the extracurricular activities like community services, sporting, leadership roles, as well as unique accomplishments of the student. These sets of activities play secondary role to influencing the admissions committee’s criterion for selecting the student for a post graduate program (DellaPietra 66). In most cases, extracurricular activities would only come in where there is a tie in grades, but with a fewer slots remaining. This can be distinguished by the level of responsibility of a student since such virtues would spearhead positive culture within the community of higher learning.
Graduate school admission can be a bit of a challenge. Yet if you know the ropes and have done ‘your homework’, so to speak, it can be done. It is a step up from undergraduate, but doable.
Let us begin. Depending on the status and scrutiny of the school which you are applying for entry in, the range of qualifying criteria ranges. I know from experience. I refer to entrance exams, essays, and interviews.
The application as a whole is considered. All fees must be paid. You must apply early and be processed in the order in which they receive your information; you must have good standing with FAFSA.
In regards to the tests of your knowledge, you may be given any one of four exams which are standardized. These four are the most well-known. They are the MCAT, GRE, LSAT, and GMAT.
The MCAT stands for Medical College Admission Test. Logically, the name is implied in the type of exam which it is. It regards any and all types of careers within the medical school field.
The GRE stands for Graduate Management Admission Test. Likewise, it applies to all students wishing to enter career programs in management. There are numerous types of management.
The LSAT exam stands for Law School Admission Test. It is one of the more rigorous tests out there. It tests a student’s endurance and ability to think and provide information while under much pressure.
Consider any additional entrance exams and fees which may be applied at the school (s).
Here is the testing process, for the most part. There is usually a small to medium margin of error. Some schools allow for one to two retakes, in order to remain in consideration for admission.
As I previously stated, I believe that the application as a whole is considered (not the deciding factor) when making a final decision. Will the student be accepted? Will the student not make the ‘final cut’ here?
Of course, the most impelling cases for acceptance or denial have been known to include (and not be based off of) the student’s ability to communicate himself or herself well--through the entrance essays--are their points clear, and is their written language understandable and logical?
Through any Skype or in-person interview---is he or she polite and open? Does he or she know what he or she wants to obtain in this life? How about what the next step is, and how to get there?
Does the student seem to have a mature mindset and make eye contact, using appropriate speech and educated vocabulary? This is a part of the matter. Communication is crucial and essential.
Have good order and communication through your entrance writing. Have the same through your speech and posture. Yet without passing the entrance exams, you will not get through.
Thus, as I stated, it is a balance of all factors considered. However, the stronger qualifying factors are the entrance exams chosen by the school. Without passing them, everything else is void. A good current credit report and student loan standing help, as do a polished application and essay with all fees paid up front. Yet without academic skill proven in a test, these things are not enough in themselves. You must show interest and a level of skill towards the degree field which you seek.
Works Cited
DellaPietra, Lynn. Perspectives on Creativity. Newcastle upon Tyne: Cambridge Scholars Pub, 2011 Print
Sayette, Michael, Tracy Mayne, John C. Norcross, and Tracy Mayne. Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology. New York: Guilford Press, 1998. Print.
