In the current economic climate, people from all walks of life are discovering the importance, and in some cases the necessity, of obtaining graduate degrees. However, many prospective graduate students become quickly overwhelmed at the idea of where to even start the process, how to fund graduate school and how to make the best choice of school and graduate discipline based on their interests and skills. GradPrep was created to offer spiritual fellowship, financial assistance and support for prospective graduate students through highly focused programs and services. The need for these programs is significant and growing.

• Student Enrollment: According to a report released by the Council of Graduate Schools in September 2009, an increase of 4.7% occurred in graduate school enrollment for domestic students from fall 2007 to fall 2008. This is the most significant increase since 2002 and is largely attributable to economic conditions and increased competition in the job market.
• Student Debt: The amount of money students borrow has long been on the rise. But 2008 far surpassed previous increases. New numbers from the U.S. Department of Education show that federal student-loan disbursements—the total amount borrowed by students and received by schools—in the 2008-09 academic year grew about 25% over the previous year, to $75.1 billion. These loan payments affect graduates’ choices by pressuring them to put off traditional life milestones (e.g. purchasing a home, having children) as well as delaying entrepreneurial efforts due to debt. The cost of graduate school is undermining the perceived value and opportunities of higher education.
• Student Development: In today’s job market, many positions require a four-year degree at a minimum. According to the article, “Entry-Level Job Market Outlook” on monstertrack.com, many students feel the four-year degree will only offer them entry-level opportunities. The article reports that 16% of college graduates are headed immediately to graduate school, 51% do not expect job offers upon graduation, and 74% think relevant experience is most important in getting a job.

Through its programming, GradPrep addresses each of these critical areas by providing guidance in choice of graduate level discipline, advice and coaching during the application and school loan process, and support in building relevant experience. Our alliances are also dedicated to these programs and enthusiastic about the opportunities to provide to students, especially the under-served prospective students from low to moderate-income levels. GradPrep and MBADiversity are supported by deans, faculty, administrators, business executives, churches, parachurch organizations and social entrepreneurs worldwide.