About the Program
The Strive Grad Prep Academy (Strive GPA) is a postgraduate education support program designed to widen the pathways to graduate and professional school, including MA, Ph.D., J.D., M.D., for students across campus, especially students who are first-generation college students and/or Pell-eligible. Strive GPA offers participants a wealth of resources and services, including no-cost test prep courses provided in partnership with Kaplan.
Resources and Services
- “Grad School Literacy” seminars and workshops each semester on a range of topics, from CV’s and statements of purpose, to building mentorships and grad school wellness.
- Networking events, and connection to faculty, staff, and current graduate students for guidance and advice.
- 1-on-1 counseling and help with postgraduate planning
- Live, virtual MCAT, LSAT, GRE test prep courses taught by Kaplan instructors
- Application material review
- Mock interviews
- Test fee waivers (depending on availability)
- Etc. (Just ask! We’ll see what we can do to help.)
CLL is located in the Student Services Building, SSB 3.200. Students are welcome to use the space to meet and study. Students are welcome to use public computers for virtual classes and limited printing.
Eligibility for Kaplan Courses
Strive GPA offers a limited number of GRE, LSAT, and MCAT prep course each year.
To participate in Kaplan test prep courses offered through Strive, students must:
- be currently enrolled in a degree program at UT-Austin;
- not have previously enrolled in any postbaccalaureate programs;
- be serious about pursuing postgraduate studies.
In addition, priority will be given to students meeting at least one of the following criteria:
- Federal Pell Grant recipient;
- First-generation college student.
Priority will also be given to those with the most immediate graduation dates.
Apply for Kaplan Courses
Applications are open for the 2023-24 academic year. To apply, complete the form linked below. Strive GPA staff will reply as soon as possible, but please be aware that responses may take a couple of weeks. Please be aware that demand is high and supplies are limited.
Applicants can indicate on their applications if they require accommodations to participate in live, online courses and specify the accommodations requested. Strive GPA staff will assist applicants selected to participate with communicating accommodation requests to Kaplan. Course participants can extend practice test times on their own using these instructions.
REQUEST A COURSE HERE
In addition to no-cost Kaplan courses, Strive GPA offers workshops for undergraduates preparing for postgraduate studies. These opportunities are open to all students, and do not require applying.
We are also more than happy to schedule individual appointments to discuss your postgraduate goals and help you make concrete plans. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for support.
Spring 2024
No registration needed. Just show up!
Monday, 18 March, 4:30-6:00P | In Conversation with Graduate Students: Advice for Building Community during Graduate Studies (WCP 1.102)
Join us on for a candid discussion and Q&A with current graduate students about how they transitioned to graduate school. We’ll focus especially on the ways graduate students value, build, and maintain communities of support as they progress through their research, but the discussion will benefit professional school students as well (law, medical, etc.).
Thursday, 28 March, 5:00-6:30P | In Conversation with Faculty: Grad School 101 (WCP 1.102)
This panel discussion is for any undergraduate student interested in pursuing graduate studies, or grad student seeking community. We will be hosting this discussion with faculty members across a variety of fields and disciplines. Faculty will be sharing their experiences and advice on their research, grad school applications, and advice they have for students interested in graduate studies. This is a great opportunity for students to ask questions, connect with faculty, and gain insights and valuable tips for their academic and postgraduate careers.
Tuesday, 9 April, 4:00-5:30P | Law School Informational & Q+A with Texas Law (SSB 3.200)
Join us for a prelaw informational and Q+A with Texas Law students and staff members. Strive staff will be joined by representatives from Texas Law who will provide an overview of the law school application process, with some practical tips, and share their valuable advice and insights. Get your questions about law school answered by current students and staff. All students interested in law school are encouraged to attend and participate.
Coming Spring 2024 * Lessons in Leadership * Application Closed
Lessons in Leadership is a semester-long program offering twenty (20) undergraduates the chance to dive deep into the habits of successful leadership, with an emphasis on the value and versatility of advanced degrees in developing and deploying positive leadership qualities. Participation is free for selected students, and students who complete the program earn support to join a professional organization of their choice. Lessons in Leadership is a collaboration between Strive GPA, the Center for Access and Restorative Engagement, and Texas Leadership Education and Development.
To learn more, download the FAQ. To apply, use QR below, or click here.
More About Kaplan
Kaplan is a global educational services company that provides individuals, universities and businesses with a diverse array of services including higher and professional education, test preparation, language training, corporate and leadership training, and student recruitment, online enablement and other university support services. With operations in nearly 30 countries, Kaplan serves nearly 1.1 million students each year and has partnerships with 2,000-plus universities, colleges, and schools/school districts and more than 4,000 businesses globally.
For more information, contact the Eric Dieter: (512) 471-1205, ericdieter@austin.utexas.edu.