Applying to graduate school can feel like trying to solve a puzzle while juggling – there are countless pieces to manage, deadlines to track, and documents to organize. After helping dozens of students navigate their graduate school applications and going through the process myself, I created a Notion template that transforms this overwhelming journey into a manageable, step-by-step process.
Quick Notion Intro
Never used Notion? Think of it as a digital notebook that can do anything. It’s a free app where you can create documents, track progress, and organize information – all in one place. To get started:
- Sign up at notion.so (free)
- Download the app on your devices
- Click my template link to duplicate it to your workspace
That’s it! Now let’s talk about why you need this template.
The Challenge of Graduate Applications
Let’s be honest: the graduate school application process is complex. You’re typically applying to multiple schools, each with their own:
- Application deadlines
- Document requirements
- Statement prompts
- Recommendation letter systems
- Test score requirements
- Application fees
Missing just one requirement or deadline can derail your entire application. And when you’re applying to 5, 8, or even 12 schools, keeping track of everything in spreadsheets or notes becomes nearly impossible.
The Birth of a Solution
While mentoring STEM students through AFROGRAD, I noticed a pattern: highly qualified candidates were struggling not with their qualifications, but with managing the application process itself. That’s when I decided to create a comprehensive system that would solve this problem once and for all.
Introducing the Graduate School Application Tracker
This isn’t just another basic checklist or spreadsheet. It’s a complete application management system designed specifically for graduate school applicants, combining:
1. Visual Application Dashboard
- See all your applications at a glance
- Track deadlines with automatic countdowns
- Monitor application status with clear indicators
- Prioritize schools with custom choice levels
2. Smart Document Management
- Centralized upload sections for all documents
- Checklist system for each application requirement
- Track multiple versions of statements and resumes
- Monitor recommendation letter status
3. Writing Support Tools
- Built-in Statement of Purpose writing guide
- Personal Statement templates and tips
- Daily vocabulary builder for academic writing
- Professor email templates
4. Progress Tracking
- Visual progress indicators
- Application milestone tracking
- Deadline management system
- Requirement completion monitoring
Real Solutions for Real Challenges
The template addresses common pain points I’ve observed:
Challenge: “I keep missing deadlines because they’re scattered everywhere.”
Solution: Centralized deadline tracking with automatic countdowns and reminders.
Challenge: “I can’t remember which documents I’ve submitted where.”
Solution: Document checklist system with status tracking for each school.
Challenge: “I’m struggling to write my personal statement.”
Solution: Built-in writing guides, templates, and daily vocabulary builders.
Challenge: “Managing recommender letters is overwhelming.”
Solution: Dedicated recommendation tracking system with email templates.
Beyond Organization: Building Success
What makes this template special isn’t just its organizational features – it’s designed to actually improve your applications as you use it. The integrated Word of the Day feature helps build your academic vocabulary, while the writing guides and templates help you craft stronger personal statements and emails.
Who This Template Is Perfect For:
- Masters and PhD program applicants
- International students managing additional requirements
- Career changers applying to multiple programs
- Research-focused applicants tracking professor communications
- Anyone applying to multiple graduate programs
Real Impact
Since releasing this template, I’ve received feedback from students who have:
- Successfully applied to 10+ schools without missing a single deadline
- Improved their personal statements using the integrated guides
- Reduced their stress levels during the application process
- Saved hours of time on organization and tracking
Getting Started
The best time to organize your graduate school applications is before you begin the process. However, the template is designed to be helpful even if you’re midway through your applications.
Ready to transform your graduate school application process? Check out the template [link]. It comes with:
- Instant access to all features
- Easy setup guide
- Regular updates
- Mobile compatibility
- Premium support
Final Thoughts
Graduate school applications are challenging enough without the added stress of disorganization. This template won’t write your personal statement or take your GRE for you, but it will ensure you never miss a deadline, lose track of a document, or forget a requirement.
Whether you’re applying to three schools or thirty, having a system that keeps everything organized and accessible can make the difference between a smooth application process and a stressful one.
[About the Author: Dr. Joseph Frimpong is the founder of AFROGRAD, dedicated to helping students navigate their graduate school journey. Follow him on YouTube for more graduate school application tips and advice.] your graduate school applications.
Quick FAQs
Q: Is Notion really free? A: Yes! The free version has everything you need.
Q: Is it complicated to use? A: No! The template comes with clear instructions and support.
Q: Can I access it on my phone? A: Yes! Works on all devices and syncs automatically.
