* Your GPA: A strong GPA from APU (or any university) is crucial. Graduate programs have minimum GPA requirements, and competitive applicants usually exceed them significantly.
* GRE/GMAT Scores (if required): Many graduate programs, especially in STEM fields and business, require standardized test scores. High scores are highly competitive.
* Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters from professors who know your work well are essential.
* Statement of Purpose: This essay demonstrates your fit for the program, your research interests, and your career goals. It's a critical component of your application.
* Research Experience: Many programs, especially at the Masters and PhD level, value research experience.
* Specific Program Requirements: Each graduate program has its own unique requirements and admissions criteria. A program at a highly selective university will be much more competitive than one at a less selective university, regardless of your undergraduate institution.
* The Graduate Program's Selectivity: Some graduate programs are highly competitive, with acceptance rates below 10%, while others are less selective.
While attending APU might provide a solid foundation, it doesn't guarantee admission to any specific graduate program. A strong application based on the factors listed above is what truly determines your chances. To get a sense of your likelihood, you should research the specific graduate programs you're interested in and carefully review their admissions requirements and statistics (if available).