You’ve graduated from undergrad, celebrated your achievements, and are now stepping into the world of grad school. But then reality hits: grad school is a whole different ballgame. If you’re feeling like grad school is much harder than undergrad, you’re not alone—it’s a common experience. But why does it feel so much tougher? And, more importantly, how can you manage the transition?

I’m going to break it all down for you. After completing my PhD, I realized that understanding the differences between undergrad and grad school is the first step to thriving. In this post, I’ll explain why grad school feels so much harder and share practical tips for managing the transition. Let’s dive in!

1. The Lack of Structure

One of the first things you’ll notice in grad school is that the structure you had in undergrad is gone. Remember those neatly organized schedules with clear start and end dates for assignments? In undergrad, you’re given a syllabus that lays out exactly what’s expected of you. In grad school, it’s different. You’re expected to take more initiative, set your own deadlines, and manage your time independently.

I’ve spoken with so many grad students about their first semester. Often, they would be given a big paper or research project to complete by the end of the semester. There was no “due date” like they were used to in undergrad—just a vague deadline for the end of the semester. They thought they had plenty of time, so they kept pushing the project aside until the last minute. Big mistake. By the time they realized they were behind, they felt like they were drowning.

How to manage it:
Grad school requires a different approach to time management. Instead of waiting for a professor to give you deadlines, create your own. Break down big projects into smaller tasks with mini-deadlines.

In my Grad School Success System, I teach you how to set up a weekly schedule that ensures you stay on track, even when your courses or research don’t have clear structure. This way, you’re always making progress.

2. The Workload is Heavier

Grad school isn’t just a continuation of undergrad; it’s a deeper dive into your field, and with that comes a heavier workload. The amount of reading, research, and writing you’ll do is significantly more intense. In undergrad, you might have been able to get away with cramming the night before an exam. In grad school, that strategy just won’t work.

I once had a professor tell me, “Grad school isn’t about learning everything at once—it’s about becoming an expert in one area.” That expertise requires a lot of focused, sustained work. I quickly learned that the casual approach I had in undergrad wouldn’t cut it in this new world.

How to manage it:
Instead of trying to power through your workload in one go, it’s essential to break it down into manageable pieces. Prioritization is key. What’s most important? What can wait? In my Time Management Essentials class, I teach strategies to help you tackle your workload without feeling overwhelmed. With the right tools, you’ll learn how to manage your reading, writing, and research efficiently.

3. The Expectations are Higher

Another reason grad school feels harder than undergrad is the heightened expectations. In undergrad, you’re focused on absorbing information and doing well on exams. In grad school, you’re expected to contribute something new to your field, whether that’s through research, writing, or creative work. You’re no longer just a student—you’re becoming a scholar.

I vividly remember the pressure I felt when I had to present my research for the first time at a conference. The idea that my work would be critiqued by experts in the field was intimidating. It wasn’t like undergrad, where I was just demonstrating that I understood the material—now, I was expected to add to it.

How to manage it:
Higher expectations don’t mean you have to stress out or doubt yourself. It’s about preparation and mindset. Build a solid foundation with your coursework, and don’t be afraid to ask for feedback along the way. I’ve included tips for building strong relationships with your professors and advisors in my book #GRADBOSS: A Grad School Survival Guide. Having a support network that believes in your potential can make all the difference.

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4. Imposter Syndrome is Real

One of the most common feelings grad students experience is imposter syndrome—the belief that you don’t belong, that you’re not as smart or capable as your peers, and that you’re going to be “found out” any day now. In undergrad, you might have felt confident in your abilities, but grad school can shake that confidence.

I’ve spoken with so many grad students who feel this way, and guess what? You’re not alone. I remember attending my first seminar and feeling like everyone around me was smarter, more prepared, and more qualified. It felt like I had somehow tricked my way into the program.

How to manage it:
Imposter syndrome doesn’t have to rule your life. One way to combat it is by acknowledging that everyone feels like this at some point—even your professors. Surround yourself with a supportive community and remind yourself that you earned your place in grad school. In my Procrastination-Burnout Cycle class, I share strategies for tackling imposter syndrome and moving forward with confidence. You deserve to be here.

5. The Work/Life Balance is Tougher to Maintain

Let’s talk about work/life balance—or the lack of it in grad school. I like to think of it as “work/life flow.” Between coursework, research, teaching, and maybe even working a job, finding time for yourself can feel impossible. In undergrad, you may have had more flexibility and free time. But in grad school, the demands can take over your entire life if you’re not careful.

I worked with a grad student, let’s call her Jamie, who was so consumed by her workload that she stopped seeing friends, skipped meals, and barely slept. By the end of the semester, Jamie was completely burnt out. And unfortunately, this isn’t an uncommon story.

How to manage it:
The key is setting healthy boundaries. You don’t have to be “on” all the time to succeed in grad school. In my Setting and Honoring Healthy Boundaries masterclass, I teach how to create a balance between your academic life and personal time. It’s not just about getting the work done—it’s about protecting your well-being in the process.

Managing the Transition to Grad School

The shift from undergrad to grad school is a big one, but with the right tools and mindset, you can navigate it successfully. Grad school may feel harder, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

If you’re ready to take control of your time, workload, and mental well-being, check out my Grad School Success System. It’s designed to help you manage the unique challenges of grad school with proven strategies for time management, beating procrastination, and setting boundaries. Let’s make this transition easier—together.

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The Grad School Success System

The Grad School Success System is your toolkit for managing time, beating procrastination, and setting healthy boundaries, so you can finally get things done…