Your pre-professional path starts here

1. Research professional schools

   Visit with the Pre-Professional Office to explore schools that interest you. Location, cost and alumni networks are all important considerations as you decide.

   U.S. News measures school rankings by program

2. Understand admission requirements

   Most applications require an entrance exam, personal statement, resume or CV, letters of recommendation and academic transcripts. Review the requirements for your preferred schools.

   OSU Pre-Professional Health and Law Resource Library

3. Register for entrance exams

   Review requirements for the programs you are considering and register for the relevant exams. Begin studying six months before you take the test and use practice exams to measure your progress.

   OSU Pre-Professional Digital Study Collection

4. Draft your personal statement

   Personal statements, sometimes called letters of intent or admissions essays, should reflect your reasons for pursuing the program and demonstrate your interest in the field.

   Perfecting Your Personal Statement 

5. Request letters of recommendation

   Most programs require two to four letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your qualifications.

   Professional References and Recommendations

6. Prepare and Submit your Applications

   Carefully review application instructions and begin compiling materials at least two weeks before each deadline.

   Before submitting, review your materials again and proofread for grammatical, factual, and formatting errors.