Components of the application for graduate studies in various countries
Online application: The majority of universities around the world accept only online applications for graduate studies. Paper applications are a relic of the past.
Applications are typically 2-3 pages long, and include basic bio-data of the applicant. Areas of interest, details of the course/program for which admission is sought, academic background, and so on need to be detailed here. Remember you can work on your applications and save them for several months. Even if you finally decide not to apply and don’t upload them, you don’t lose anything.
Application fee: Applications are not uploaded to the target institutions until the application fee is paid. Fees typically range from USD 30-80+. Fees can be paid with a credit or debit card.
Letters of Recommendation: Letters of Recommendation (universally abbreviated to LORs) are an integral part of graduate applications. Given by current or former teachers or faculty, they are used to assess the applicant’s aptitude and preparedness for the rigors of grad school.
Students and faculty alike should take this seriously – a well-crafted Letter of Recommendation can add a sheen to an application, while a poorly crafted letter can damage a student’s chances. Copying from anywhere can be detrimental and projects a poor image of both the student and faculty, as well as the institution. For tips on crafting a compelling Letter of Recommendation, please go to:
"https://career.berkeley.edu/Grad/GradLetter"
"https://rackham.umich.edu/admissions/applying/letters-of-recommendation/"
Statement of Purpose: Applications to programs of graduate studies usually include a ‘Statement of Purpose’ or ‘Personal Essay’ or ‘Statement of Intent’ or ‘Application Essay’. Typically 1-2 pages long, it is a critical piece of a graduate school application that tells admissions committees who you are, what your academic and professional interests are, and how you’ll add value to the graduate program you’re applying to.
"https://www.cmu.edu/gcc/handouts-and-resources/handouts/grad-app-sop.pdf"
"https://grad.berkeley.edu/admissions/apply/statement-purpose/"
Standardized Tests: The GRE or GMAT as well as an English Proficiency test such as the TOEFL-IBT or IELTS or PTE are required at most competitive universities. To register for these tests, go to:
GRE: "https://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/about
TOEFL: "https://www.ets.org/toefl/test-takers/"
IELTS: "https://www.ielts.org/for-test-takers/how-to-register"
PTE: "https://in.pearson.com/assessments-and-certifications/pte-academic/pte-home.html"
The cost of the various tests is mentioned on the websites above.
The tests can be repeated more than once, should the student believe that they can do better. However, the fee has to be paid for every attempt.
Some of the less competitive universities may not require the GRE/GMAT or any other standardized test scores. Students should check everything about such universities before taking this ‘easier’ route.
Curriculum Vitae/Résumé: Every part of the application is equally important – the CV or Résumé needs as much attention as any other part. For guidelines on crafting a perfect CV or Résumé, go to:
"https://gradschool.cornell.edu/career-and-professional-development/pathways-to-success/prepare-for-your-career/take-action/resumes-and-cvs/"