1. 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

2. 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.

3. 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

4. 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
Transcripts
Original or
Official Copy with explanation

5. 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

6. 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.

7. 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.

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

9. 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

10. 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!!

11. 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.

12. Don’t be shy about your achievements!

13. 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!

14. 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

15. Good luck!