Are you thinking of applying to a postgraduate or Ph.D. program abroad and feel like each university website you look at has a stack of steps you need to follow to apply? Have no fear! Follow the 8 steps outlined below, and you’re sure to be just a breath away from the perfect application. Always remember that any application, whether to a university or for a job, must have two key ingredients: cohesive information and a clear motivation. Keep reading, and you’ll see that it’s really not that bad!
- Research the program
Before starting the application process, research the program you’re
interested in. Have a look at the course syllabus, teaching methods,
professors, any research conducted at the university, what alumni have gone
on to do, and decide if they’re a good fit for you. If you have the possibility to
do so, go to an open day or college fair, or contact current or previous students to
get a deeper insight into the degree. - Make sure you understand the admission requirements
Take the time necessary to read in detail and make a note of the admission requirements to the program of your choice, including any minimum grade requirements for your graduate degree, standardized test score requirements (e.g. for the GMAT or GRE) and language certifications (e.g. IELTS). If you do not meet some of those requirements, contact the Admissions Office to find out if an exception can be made or if there are alternative solutions. You may have to resit a standardized test if your results are no longer within the validity period or include a “pending” language certification score on your application.
- Keep an updated file and have a solid time frame
Make sure you have correctly noted down all application deadlines and admission requirements for each of the programs you’re applying to – keep in mind that there will be lots of information to juggle, spread across many different websites. Use an Excel document and your calendar to stay on top of all you need to get done, so you don’t have to do any last minute cramming. Create folders, on your computer or online, where you can save all the documents necessary for your application to each university. - Find out what documents you need
Have any degrees and grade transcripts handy. Some universities may even ask for your high school diploma. Find out if you need a passport: sometimes, a national ID card is not deemed sufficient, and a passport is a prerequisite to move forward in the application process. It’s comforting to know that no university is going to reject you for making a mistake when submitting your documents. However, it’s in your best interest to “get it right” from the start, as it’ll save you time and ensure there’s less hassle. - Get strong recommendation letters
More graduate programs ask for at least two recommendation letters, whether from an academic or an employer. Choose two people who know you well and who can speak about your skills and strengths as a student or a professional. Make sure you give your employer, colleague or professor enough time to write the letter, and provide them with all the necessary information to do so. You can even give those individuals a copy of your personal statement and your CV to help them write a more detailed and precise recommendation.
- Submit an accurate CV
Your CV should showcase your academic and professional achievements and experiences. It should also be well-organized and legible. Make sure you include any research, presentations, or publications you’ve completed. Consider whether or not you should adapt your CV to the program you’re applying to by highlighting experiences and skills that may be particularly relevant. Keep in mind that whoever evaluates your application does not know you and or any of the things you may have done so far. This is why it’s a good idea to discuss what you should include in your CV with colleagues, coworkers or an academic counselor. - Emphasize your motivation in your personal statement
Your personal statement is your opportunity to present your strengths, experiences, achievements, and goals. It must be well-written, concise, and tailored to the specific program you’re applying to. Make sure you highlight any relevant experience and accomplishments, and explain why you are interested in this particular program. Think about including a description of any research you’ve done or projects you’ve completed, as well as a discussion of challenges you’ve overcome in your academic or professional career so far. It is important that you follow any guidelines provided by the university regarding the personal statement’s format and content. Finally, ensure that there is continuity to the information you are providing by referring to facts also mentioned in your CV. - Pay attention to detail
Remember to review your application multiple times to ensure that it is both precise and complete. Make sure you’ve answered any questions and submitted all relevant documents, such as the Apostille and your grade transcripts. Some of your documents may need to be translated by a professional. Submit your application prior to the deadline, and contact the Admissions Office to ensure they have received it. Keep a copy of the application material for your files. With the help of these 8 steps, you can increase your chances of being admitted to the program of your choice. The most important thing, however, is to believe that you can do it and picture yourself having already succeeded! After all, the only one who is sure to be rejected is the one who never applies. Ask for help, start early, screw your courage to the sticking place, have fun, and let’s crush this!
