Additional Admissions Materials

Many programs require additional materials above and beyond what the Graduate School needs to offer an admission decision. And, whether it’s a statement of purpose, a writing sample, a resume, CV, or a portfolio, they offer an opportunity for you to show the graduate faculty reviewing your application who you are, what you’ve accomplished already, why you want to pursue graduate studies, and why you’re a good fit for their program. Please upload any required additional materials to the application portal under "Supplemental Items."

Not only do these documents provide evidence of your qualifications and aptitude for graduate studies, but they also demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly and professionally. Take your time on them and make sure to proofread, proofread, proofread!

Statement of Purpose

Focus your statement of purpose on the reasons you are interested in attending a specific graduate program at UL Lafayette. Show that you’ve spent time researching the program, the department, and why our program and faculty are the right fit for you. It can be tough to do, but you also want to “brand” yourself by expanding on why you would be a good fit for the program and the value you would add as an individual. Don’t be afraid to consult with your graduate coordinator for guidance on preparing your statement of purpose. Generally speaking, your statement of purpose should address:

• reasons for pursuing graduate study
• reasons for pursuing graduate study in this particular graduate program at UL Lafayette
• background (both personal and academic)
• relevant work experience
• future plans
• other information that may be of special interest or importance to the graduate program

Unless otherwise stated by the program, the personal statement should be no longer than two, single-spaced pages.

Resume or Curriculum Vitae

Providing an up-to-date resume or curriculum vitae (CV) offers the graduate program a snapshot of your academic and professional credentials. Please, do not include personal information like your age, marital status, or children on your resume or CV. You’ll want to ensure that a Resume or CV includes your:

• name
• contact information
• educational degrees (including dates, majors, GPA, thesis titles) and certificates (chronological order)
• professional work and volunteer experience
• publications
• presentations
• grants, fellowships, honors, awards
• research and teaching experience
• other relevant skills and experience

Get more resume writing tips from UL Lafayette’s career services center!