A program of study at a graduate school is the next step for the academically inclined, after an undergraduate or bachelors degree. Knowing and understanding what graduate schools want is vitally important, as you can then alter your work experiences and skills to evolve into the ideal student they are looking for.

Admission to a graduate school requires the submission of a transcript, GRE or other standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, a personal statement and/or an admissions essay. In addition to all this, some schools also schedule a personal interview for the finalists. An applicant needs to be careful when filling up the application forms, as incomplete applications are summarily rejected.

The transcript is a record of academic progress. It is generally not a part of the application sent by the student. The transcript is forwarded by the registrars office at the college or university. If applicants want it included as part of their application, they will need to fill out certain forms giving the details asked for. It would be wise to begin this process early enough to avoid any delay while submitting the application to the graduate school.

Most schools ask for GRE (Graduate Record Exams) scores. Law, medical and business schools ask for LSAT, MSAT and GMAT scores respectively. The purpose of these exams is to assess a students potential for graduate level studies. The GRE is scored out of 2400 and most acceptable scores generally fall in the range of 1800 to 2000. As most schools need to sift through several applications, they apply cut-off scores to the GRE. Only applications above the cut-off scores are considered.

While reviewing applications, graduate schools look for certain qualities that will ensure that they admit promising students. They try to find students who are eager to take in knowledge, have motivation and the capability for success. Students should indicate that they are open to guidance and supervision. The essay or personal statement that accompanies the application should be able to convey this message.