Applying to graduate school is one of the most exciting steps you can take in your academic and professional journey. It’s a process that can feel overwhelming, especially when every detail and date matters. Over the years, we’ve seen the same pitfalls trip up otherwise strong applicants — small missteps that can make a big difference. The good news? With preparation and the right strategies, you can avoid these mistakes and put your best self forward.

Here are five of the most common graduate school application mistakes and how to make sure they don’t derail your plans.

1. Missing Deadlines

The mistake: Application systems often require transcripts, recommendations, essays, and potentially test scores — all of which take time to gather. Many students underestimate how early they need to begin and how these items are sent to the school they are applying.

How to avoid it: Create a timeline as soon as you identify your programs. Mark deadlines not only for submissions but also for when you’ll request recommendations, send transcripts, or schedule tests. Most admissions teams recommend submitting an application 2-3 weeks prior to the deadline in case something takes longer than expected. Staying organized is the simplest way to reduce unnecessary stress.  

2. Writing a Generic Personal Statement

The mistake: Some applicants use one personal statement for every school. Admissions committees can spot this immediately. A vague essay that could apply anywhere doesn’t show your authentic fit with a program.

How to avoid it: Tailor your statement to each school. Reflect on why this specific program aligns with your career goals. Mention faculty, a school’s mission, or unique learning opportunities that connect with your interests. Think of the personal statement not as “selling yourself,” but as sharing your story and demonstrating why this program is the right next step for you.

3. Overlooking Program Fit

The mistake: Graduate school isn’t one-size-fits-all. Applicants sometimes focus only on rankings or location, without considering the program’s curriculum, faculty expertise, or clinical and research opportunities.

How to avoid it: Do your research. Review the curriculum, application eligibility requirements and alumni outcomes. Reach out to current students, attend on-campus or virtual information sessions, or speak to the admissions office if you have questions. Admissions is there to support you – reach out with questions as you have them!

4. Requesting the Wrong Reference

The mistake: Asking someone who doesn’t know you well or a family member to write a letter can result in a generic or unprofessional letter of support.

How to avoid it: Choose recommenders who can speak to your strengths in context with examples relative to the program you are applying; a professor who saw your work ethic and attest to your academic ability, a supervisor who can describe your leadership and teamwork, or a mentor who guided your growth and truly understands your potential. When requesting the reference, provide them with your résumé and a few notes on your current achievements and share your future goals so they are informed.  

5. Pre-requisite Coursework

The mistake: Not knowing which coursework is required for admission eligibility to the program.  

How to avoid it: Prerequisites are a general requirement for most graduate programs. While some programs allow applicants to be considered for admission with pre-requisite coursework in process, others may require that all prerequisite courses be completed (or a specific number of courses) at the time of application submission. Research your top programs and understand the pre-requisite requirements; 1) What courses are required, 2) When will they need to be completed by, and 3) Build a timeline to ensure that you meet these requirements and complete the necessary prerequisite courses prior to enrolling, should you be accepted.  

Admissions Tip: Reach out to individual admissions offices with any questions for specific programs as requirements vary.

At the MGH Institute of Health Professions, we’ve guided thousands of prospective students through the application process. The application process to graduate school can feel as though it is high stakes, but it does not need to be high stress. With planning, organization, and working with an admissions team, you’ll avoid common mistakes and build an application that you will be proud to submit for admission consideration.  

If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey, start early, stay organized, and remember that every part of your application is an opportunity to shine.