I will be in my late 40's when I apply to graduate school. Should I be concerned about applying at this age?

Question

I am concerned about being turned down because of my age. What can I do to increase my chances at an Ivy League graduate school?

Answer 1

I'm 50 and in grad school.... PhD is next! My age hasn't been detrimental. In fact, the profs like us because we come ready to learn and ready to do the work. We interact in the class room and will answer the questions when many young'uns just sit there.

My enjoyment of the work I'm doing has brought me high marks and scholarship money. Probably more stress though as I balance family responsibilities with school work. (like right now ... I should be reading!)

Many universities are more concerned with your ability to pay for your education, your marks are second.

So as an adult student they may want you more than ever!

Answer 2

I wouldn't worry. People go to graduate school at many different ages! :-) I'm a professor, and people who work at my institution - in administrative and adjunct capacities - have gone to graduate school in their 40's and 50's.

Of course, admission into an Ivy League school is always difficult. And I personally am not sure it's always necessary. It's more important, as you probably already know, to find a school that fits your interests and personal style. Find schools that are the best for you and apply there. They may be, but may not be, Ivy League.

Answer 3

Your concerns are well founded. At your age, that's when age discrimination kicks in to full speed. Usually it starts to happen when you turn 40, and by 48, folks don't hide their discrimination from you. The only hope for you is to ace entrance exams like the GRE. You need to score in the upper 98% category if you want to get accepted to Ivy schools or you need to show them that you have had a very successful professional career in a hyper competitive field. The way they are going to look at your application is that you already had your chance.

Answer 4

Admission is based on aptitude, not age. Your past performance in your undergrad studies, the subjects you studied, and getting a high GRE are the most important things to be considered for admission.

If your undergrad GPA is not at least 3.5, then you had better study like crazy for the GRE to get the highest score possible -- like 1500 or better.

Answer 5

I'm 51 and in Grad., school. It doesn't matter how old or young you are. If you can make the grade - that is all they care about.