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Choosing an international graduate school
Additionally, many graduate programs also require other materials, such as a resume, writing sample, portfolio, or proof of professional licensing.
Tips for Successfully Completing an Application for Admission to Graduate School
- Read the instructions and follow them carefully.
- Provide complete and accurate information. Your application will usually not be reviewed until ALL required documents have been received.
- Type or write neatly. If your application isn't readable, it can't be evaluated.
- Consistently spell out your full legal name (as it appears on your passport) on all forms.
- Don't wait for deadlines -- get all necessary materials submitted as early as possible.
- Be organized when compiling materials for your application packet and make copies of everything you send in.
- Be sure to contact the admissions office if you have any questions.
You can usually apply for admissions either online or by paper. However, most universities prefer that you use the online application, as it can be processed more quickly. Additionally, it may include several features not available through the paper application, such as electronic submission of letters of recommendation and other supporting documents (statement of purpose, writing samples, resume, etc.).
Transcripts and Grades
Transcripts, a Detailed Marks Certificate, or comparable document showing all course work, grades, and proof of earned degrees for each institution attended must be submitted for all colleges and universities attended, whether or not credit was earned, the program was completed, or the credit appears as transfer credit on another transcript. Transcripts must be official and forwarded in their original sealed envelopes. If academic records are provided in a language other than English, a certified English translation must also be provided – translations alone will be not be accepted. Both documents must be certified by an official government agency or authorized official.
Schools may indicate they are looking for a specific minimum grade-point average (GPA), but can be impressed by a pattern of improvement. Depending on the particular graduate program, the school may also consider your GPA for course work in your major or in grades for individual courses related to the graduate program.
Recommendations
The number of recommendations required may vary by school and program. Be sure to check admissions guidelines to ensure that you submit the appropriate number of recommendations and type (e.g., academic vs. professional) required for the program to which you are applying.
The number of recommendations required may vary by school and program. Be sure to check admissions guidelines to ensure that you submit the appropriate number of recommendations and type
When selecting a recommender, go to those who know you and have had positive experiences with you: use only people who know you well AND who know you when you did well. Faculty recommendations are particularly important if you're planning on pursuing a research degree. If you're applying to a professional degree program, a mix of faculty and those who may know you in a professional capacity are usually acceptable. Do not submit recommendations from people who only know you as a family member or friend.
Make the process as easy as possible for your recommender. Contact them first to ask if they would be willing – and have time -- to provide a recommendation. Be sure to tell them the program and degree to which you're applying and include information about yourself (a resume or bio, a copy of your personal statement, a copy of a good paper you may have submitted in their class).
The U.S. Family & Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA) requires that you have access to the recommendation, unless you specifically waive access. This is your decision. However, many admissions committees view the accuracy and honesty of a recommendation more favorably if access is waived.
Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement
The statement of purpose is your opportunity to stand out from the rest of the applicants. Let the school know what is interesting or unique about you and why they should want you as a student. Include information that is not on your resume or listed elsewhere in your application materials, such as interesting experiences or unique characteristics.
