Barriers to Applying to Grad School for Students in CSD from Underrepresented backgrounds

What is it about?

This study aimed to examine the perspectives of students from underrepresented backgrounds on the graduate school application process and identify ways to improve diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in communication science and disorders.

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Why is it important?

Applying to grad school is hard! However, some students may encounter more challenges during the application process than others. While there is greater diversity in undergraduate CSD programs (i.e., 29.5% identify as minority students), there is a 10%–27% decrease in diversity between undergraduate and master's degree programs. Potential barriers to graduate school admission often cited in the literature include high-stakes testing, finances, cutoff scores on the GRE, English language skills, and insufficient support during the application process.