Strategies for Success: Application to Graduate Study in the U. S Strategies for Success: Application to Graduate Study in the U.S. Written by Kitty Villa Presented by Ellen Butki

Applying to U.S. Universities Application Process Not a one-step process, but a process which takes place over a period of time and with documents sent to different offices: admissions and department. Marketplace of Educational Opportunity Applicants “market” themselves to gain admission to best university for them. Universities/departments are also in the market for best students. However, departments may not accept “best” students if they don’t “match” program or professors’ interest.

Step 1: Do your research, choose schools & apply to more than one place. You need to evaluate: Your academic and career goals Recommendations from friends, professors, others Your grades & test scores Geographic area or climate Sources of information Guides (Peterson’s,etc) StudyUSA.com

Step 2: Assemble the Application Parts The application form On-line option Some parts may not apply to you--leave blank Check School and Department requirements http://www.utexas.edu/ogs/admissions/requirements.html Transcripts Original or Official Copy with explanation

Step 2: Assemble the Application Test scores (TOEFL, IELTS,GRE, GMAT) should be sent by ETS Don’t wait for scores to apply Letter of financial support Applying for aid? Sometimes available for foreign students Letters of recommendation - special form? Application fee

Check which documents go where—don’t forget anything Check which documents go where—don’t forget anything!! If you don’t know, check website or ask.

Step 3: Distinguish your application Start application process early, if possible More time to retake and improve test scores. Don’t be STOPPED by deadlines Deadline or guideline? Other factors - research interests of faculty - may be more important than deadlines.

Step 3: Distinguish your application Always include a thoughtfully prepared Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Part 1- Statement of purpose (SOP) Introduction Describe yourself and your previous educational background Add detail about rank in class, academic honors and other honors Explain grading scale and other characteristics of educational system which may be misunderstood Include a “hook” to be remembered Include what degree and program you want

Part 2 - Statement of purpose Describe your academic goals What specific kind of advanced study/research interests you? Why are you seeking admission to this particular university? Include name of specific course, research group, or professor Remember to change for different schools!!

Part 3 - Statement of Purpose Describe your long term goals When you finish your advanced degree, what next? If you already have a job offer or career plan, describe it. If you won a scholarship for this program which involves a commitment to benefit your home country, write about it.

Don’t be shy about your achievements!

Step 3: Distinguish your application Consider who/which office will make the decision to admit or deny your application Focus your efforts on the person/office who will make the decision Make personal contact when possible - but not too often!

In sum, use the application process effectively Analyze your background & choose your prospective institutions Assemble the complete application Distinguish your application Apply early Include “strong” Statement of Purpose Consider contacting faculty

Good luck!