Free Beginner’s Guide to Grad School Applications

How to Apply and Get Accepted to Graduate School

Everything you need to know to get started with applying to graduate school — explained clearly, step-by-step, in this free beginner’s guide. It’s a concise, high-level overview to help you build a strong foundation before diving deeper with more advanced resources.

By Alexus Cazares-Nuesser, PhD Candidate & NSF GRFP Recipient

Free Grad School Application Guide

Get proven strategies to plan and apply to graduate school, choose the right programs and advisors, prepare strong applications, and succeed in interviews. Join my mailing list for more tips, resources, and early access to paid guides and coaching.

​

An auditorium is filled with empty seats.

    By signing up, you agree to receive emails from me. You can unsubscribe any time.

    Built with Kit

    👥 Who This Is For

    This guide is designed for:

    • 🎓 Undergrads exploring grad school
    • 🎯 Recent grads planning their next move
    • 🔄 Career changers pivoting into research
    • ✊ First-gen & underrepresented students navigating the process for the first time


    If you’re asking yourself “Where do I even start?”, this guide is for you.

    What You'll Learn

    • 🧭 Clarify Your Grad School Goals
    • 🎯 Identify Programs, Labs & Advisors That Fit
    • 📂 Build a Strong Application (SOPs, CVs, Recs & More)
    • 💸 Funding & Fellowships Overview (NSF GRFP, Fulbright + more)
    • 📅 Stay On Track With Your Application Timeline
    • 🎤 Prepare for Interviews & Faculty Conversations

    Why Listen to Me

    Hi, I’m Alexus 👋 I’m a first-gen, queer Latina scientist and educator who went from feeling lost after undergrad to fully funded PhD student in marine science. I’ve secured fellowships like the NSF GRFP and now help other students tell their stories, write strong applications, and get in — with confidence.

    ✅ NSF GRFP Awardee
    ✅ PhD Candidate in Biological Oceanography
    ✅ Helped 20+ students apply successfully

    Learn More About Me→

    Need More Guidance?

    The Graduate School Application Blueprint is a perfect next step before working with me 1-on-1. You’ll get:

    • A full SOP writing guide + sample

    • Professional email templates

    • The Ultimate CV Guide

    • Interview prep advice + common Qs

    • Tips for international students (visas, TOEFL, OPT)

    • A detailed funding section (including how I got the NSF GRFP)

    • Video walkthroughs for every major step

    🔗 Learn More + Purchase the Blueprint →

    Want Personalized Support?

    Feeling stuck or want expert feedback on your CV, statement, or fellowship essays?

    I offer 1-on-1 Graduate School Coaching to help you through every step of the application process — including:
    – Statement of Purpose strategy and edits
    – Grad school selection advice
    – Fellowship coaching (incl. NSF GRFP — I was a recipient!)
    – Mock interviews, email drafts, CV edits, and more

    🔗 Learn More + See Pricing Tiers →