Can anyone comment on the timeline for the application process?

[Fermat]

For example, if you are shooting for the Dec. 1st deadline, when do you start the process? Is now to early to be asking professors for letters? I've taken the GRE already. What about transcripts? Do the undergraduate/previous schools mail them to the schools in which you're applying to? How long do the online applications take to do?

Sorry for all the questions, but I have an idea of how I want to go about this but could use some advice. Any comments are appreciated.

[asquare]

You should allow 2-3 hours per application for filling in the computerized forms (address, employment history, transcript information, etc.). Start this early, to make sure that the application doesn't require additional materials you need to put together or have a "twist" to the SOP that requires you to rewrite a bit for one specific application. As I recall, Berkeley had a required "diversity statement" that anyone applying for financial aid had to fill out. You don't want to discover little surprises like that at the last minute.

In most cases, you should have transcripts sent directly to the schools you are applying to. However, if your undergrad school won't do this, make sure to allow time for the transcripts to be mailed to you, and then mailed again to the schools you apply to. I'd request transcripts 6 weeks in advance. If they arrive early, they will just go in your file.

You should start talking to your potential recommenders NOW. You want to give them plenty of notice, and it's also a good idea to consult with them as you develop your final list of school. They have good advice, and can guide you to places where they feel they can help you win admission. And it's good for them to feel like they are part of, and invested in, your graduate application process rather than an afterthought. You should give them all of the information they will need to write recommendations AT LEAST a month before the applications are due. I would suggest giving each recommender a packet containing the hard copy LOR forms for schools that use hard copies with the "to be completed by applicant" section already completed, stamped pre-addressed envelopes for schools that use hard copies, your transcript, resume, writing sample, SOP, key paper from the class they taught if applicable, and a sheet showing every school to which you are applying, the date LORs are due, and whether they are electronic or hard copy.

Planning ahead and being organized are really important. Also, remember that NSF applications are due in November, before econ department applications.

[TruDog]

I would very strongly recommend that you have everything done by November 1 or so. That way, you have a couple of weeks to address any problems that may arise with your applications.

[phdseeker]

Usually people say have all done by Thanksgiving so you can enjoy the feast in peace.