Five questions you need to ask yourself before deciding on graduate school

Deciding on graduate school is a huge decision that requires a deep and personal commitment as well as financial investment. If you’re interested, but still undecided, check out our list of important questions to ask yourself first.

1. Why do I want to go to graduate school?

Are you trying to learn more about a specific subject? Change career fields? Gain more research opportunities? For higher potential for career advancement? All of these are good or common reasons to pursue graduate school.

Reasons that are not as valid include: because you don’t want to leave school yet, a guaranteed higher salary, or because you just don’t know what else to do. Graduate school is a stressful, difficult and often expensive path. Without a solid reason to go, it may not be the best decision.

2. Should I do this now?

Before you invest in your future—or in application fees, loans, and textbooks—you should consider the timing of your decision. Are you mentally and emotionally ready to take on graduate school? What about financially?

For some, attending graduate school is a better option after a few years of real world job experience and saving money. For others, attending right after their undergraduate school is best, since they do not have any serious commitments (such as families or relationships) yet or because it is the next best step professionally.

3. What kind of graduate experience do I want?

It is important to consider what kind of student you are and especially what would be best suited for the career you want. Are you looking for a small and interactive classroom approach? Or perhaps more lecture and theory-based? Or are you looking for a research-based program? All of these questions should be taken into consideration when deciding the best environment for you.

4. Do I need to go to graduate school?

Graduate degrees are necessary for fields like law, medicine, education or science. However, graduate degrees are not necessary for fields like business or technology, but they can offer opportunities to advance skills or change career directions. Personal enrichment is a completely valid reason to pursue graduate school, but is important to remember that a bigger paycheck is not guaranteed.

5. How will I pay for this?

There are many options to help finance graduate school. You can look for one-year programs, which ultimately means a cheaper cost. Will you work for a year or two before entering school or instead work while in school? Some fields offer funding opportunities like research or teaching assistantships, which will cover tuition costs. Finally, if you are already in the working field, it can be possible to reach out to your current employer and find out if they offer tuition reimbursement programs for their employees.

You can learn about more graduate school resources here.