Mistakes to Avoid While Applying to SLP Grad School

It is important to read the application instructions completely, and follow them step by step. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how often applicants make mistakes that cost them an acceptance simply because they didn’t read the instructions thoroughly or didn’t follow all the required steps.

Take the time to read the instructions, and track all application requirements in your Grad School Application Spreadsheet.

If you have questions that can't be answered by the information provided on a specific program's website, don't be afraid to ask for clarification by reaching out to the program secretary/grad school program contact (typically found on the program's website).

Before applying, it’s extremely important to do your research and get to know the schools you’re applying to.

Find out more about specific program requirements and faculty, location and things to do in the area, and the kinds of experiences and opportunities the program offers. Then log those in your spreadsheet under the appropriate columns. This will help you determine if the school is a good fit for you and your interests.

For more on finding programs to apply to, check out How to Find the Right Grad School for You.

It takes time to complete applications and gather all the necessary documents and information. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to prepare your application and submit it before the deadline.

As I mention in my post all about SLP grad school and when to apply, I always recommend starting the process at least 6-8 months before application due dates.

Gather all the documents you need for your application, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, resumes, personal statements, and essays. Make sure they’re all in the correct format, have been reviewed, and will be submitted on time.

Many students get to ~2 months before applications are due and realize just how much work it takes to create and perfect all of these documents. Don't let that be you!

Get your documents ready, and get them ready early, because finalizing and submitting them takes more time than you think.

Make sure to double check your essays and other materials for any typos, grammar errors, and other mistakes that could hurt your application. Have someone else read it over for any errors you may have missed.

If you would like your documents to be reviewed by me (someone who has reviewed hundreds of resumes, personal statements, and full SLP grad school applications for over 5 years now), sign up for my review services HERE!

If you find yourself stuck or overwhelmed with the application process, don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Here at SpeechLyss, I offer one-on-one and group coaching calls to answer all of your specific questions and assist you in creating your very best application. If you're struggling, sign up for a coaching call today!

Applying to SLP grad school can be a stressful process, but if you avoid these extremely common mistakes, you help give yourself the best chance of getting accepted. Good luck!! You've got this!