Contacting Potential Advisors

It is best to reach out to potential advisors several months before the application deadline. Contacting them is beneficial because it helps you to know if they show interest in your work, and it enables you to introduce yourself and let them know that you’re interested in the program, so that when they review your application, they may remember your name. Professors have a large workload, so don’t feel bad if they don’t respond—send a follow up email if you don’t hear anything after several weeks.

Sample Email

Subject: Your Name – Potential PhD/Master Applicant

Dear Professor X,

I hope this finds you well.

My name is X, and I am writing to you because I am interested in applying to the X program at X University, and beforehand I wanted to get in touch in order to introduce myself.

I have a Bachelor's/Master’s degree in X from X. During my time there, I have become involved with research on X, X, and X. In my most recent research project, I analyzed X. And now, I am planning to/interested in X.

I have read about your research interests in your profile on the university's website and the graduate courses that you have recently taught. I also read your [X] work “X” and found it ______. Therefore, I think we have some topics and interests in common. Particularly, I believe an enriching dialogue could emerge between your expertise in X and X and my interest in X. This is one area I could see myself exploring in research as a graduate student. I will be applying to the Ph.D. program this fall and would very much like the opportunity to work with you as my advisor. What is your availability for currently accepting new students?

Thank you very much for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

X