Is there such thing as applying for a grad school program off-cycle?

[omoplata]

Eventual goal is to apply for neuroscience PhD programs. Before that though, having been out of undergrad for a time now, I need to lab tech/get some more research experience to freshen up my CV. Since my one and two year anniversaries at a new teching job will not coincide with typical academic scheduling, I was wondering whether there were any neuro programs that considered students outside of the typical deadlines. 

 

Thank you for your help. 

[stephchristine0]

They usually say so on their websites. I just applied past the deadline because I know no one has gotten any official decisions from that program. So I went ahead and applied late. I would contact the dept and as if they'll accept your late application. 

 

Good luck!

[dendy]

Typically no, but why does your work anniversary need to align with the grad school application cycle? Does this job have a 12 month contract or something? Talk to your superior/PI, they are usually accommodating of people who want to go to grad school, though they might not want you to apply your first year there if interviews would occur in your first few months on the job.

Edited March 13, 2013 by dendy

[omoplata]

The positions and fellowships I've applied to and inquired about have all stated explicit 12-months-at-a-time contracts from the outset. Doesn't mean I can't break them, but as I want these PI's to write rec letters, that would not seem wise. 

[dendy]

That's weird... What kind of jobs are these exactly? Have you tried looking at universities' employment websites? These jobs are usually not contract-based and no time requirements, though your PI might want an verbal agreement to stay there 12+ months. It's usually easier if they know you want to go to grad school from the get go. This might keep you from getting some jobs but will prevent hard feelings (and bad reference letters!) down the line.