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Making the leap from undergraduate to graduate school is an exciting and challenging step. While you may already have some idea of what to expect, graduate school culture and academic expectations are often different in ways that take students by surprise. Graduate programs are designed to push you further than you’ve ever gone before—expect to be more independent, engage deeply with specialized topics, and work closely with faculty advisors and research groups. Here’s what you need to know about the culture, expectations, and dynamics of graduate school to help you succeed in this new academic environment.

The graduate school interview is often the final step in the application process, and it’s your opportunity to make a strong impression on faculty and program coordinators. Whether you’re applying to a business program, health care degree, or education degree, understanding the expectations, preparing effectively, and knowing how to answer common questions can set you apart. In this guide, we’ll cover what to expect, how to prepare, sample questions for you to ask, and effective strategies for answering questions with confidence.

A recent EAB study of 6,000+ graduate and adult learners found that flexibility is an important consideration for prospective students when making their enrollment decision. When asked about preferred modality for course format, there was no clear winner, indicating the need for multiple formats to fit a variety of personal situations. Graduate programs have evolved to meet the needs of diverse learners, and prospective students now have more options than ever to tailor their education experience. You can choose from traditional on-campus programs, fully online programs, or hybrid programs that blend both. Each format offers distinct benefits and challenges, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision about the best learning environment for you. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each modality, with insights and statistics to help you find the format that aligns with your academic, personal, and professional goals.

Graduate school is a transformative experience, but it can also be a challenging time for students with families. Balancing academic responsibilities with personal and family obligations requires careful planning, resilience, and sometimes sacrifice. A recent EAB survey of current and prospective graduate students/adult learners found 31% of participants were caregivers for children or parents. For many graduate students with dependents, concerns about time management, financial planning, housing, and childcare are top of mind. This guide will explore the realities of graduate school for students with families, with tips and strategies for navigating this journey successfully.