Mastering the Master'sYour Guide to Navigating the Application Process

1. Mastering the Master's: Your Guide to Navigating the Application Process Commented [SM1]: Keywords required: Study abroad consultant Abroad study consultant Study abroad counsellor Difficult to fit in the second keyword as it's grammatically incorrect Deciding to pursue a master's degree is an exciting and important step in your academic and professional journey, especially if you plan to study abroad in the USA, which has some of the best universities in the world. However, the application process is quite complex and competitive. If you are one of those who dreams of getting admitted to a university abroad for higher study, you can’t start preparing early enough to achieve it. Here are a few tips for all aspirants: 1.Research your Options Try to narrow down your choices by researching programs that suit your career goals, align with your academic interests and fit into your financial plan. Consider program and university ranking, location, faculty and class profile, course curriculum, entrance test requirements (SAT/ACT/GRE/GMAT/TOEFLE) and target scores you need and most importantly, tuition cost (as this is a key decision factor for many candidates). All this and more information is easily available on respective college websites. But to gain an insider’s perspective, browse through websites such as Reddit or Poets and Quants, as well as university and student blogs. 2.Create a Standout Application Recycle and reuse is great for the environment but not for your application essays! In order to attract the admission committee’s attention, curate your application content. Secure personalised recommendation letters from your professors and work supervisors. Amp up your application with the expertise of a good study abroad counsellor who can help tailor your CV and Statement of Purpose (SOP) to build up your profile and correctly represent yourself as a candidate who will be a good fit for the program. 3.Document Collection and Financial Planning Given the complexities of the process, you can always take the help of a study abroad consultant to easily navigate this crucial step. A study abroad counsellor will help you make a checklist of all the required documents for each application, including transcripts, test scores, recommendation letters, statement of purpose, and financial aid forms. They can also help you out with the process of securing scholarships and/or financial aid while appraising you of changes in the application process. Considering the financial implications of pursuing a master's degree as well as the changes brought about due to COVID 19, this is an opportune time to seek the services of a study abroad consultant. 4.Meet Application deadlines: It is extremely important to stay up-to-speed with admission deadlines so you can start your application process well in time. Typically, it takes 6 months before the university application deadlines to gather your academic and supporting financial and professional documents. One common mistake that most students make is focusing too intensely on competitive tests and score requirements, in the process overlooking key deadlines for application submission and scholarship requests. Here too, a study abroad counsellor can be of invaluable help in ensuring that you are well on track for all key deadlines.

2. Applying for master's studies is a daunting task and requires careful planning and preparation. By following these steps, conducting thorough research, and staying organized, you can maximize your chances of being accepted into your desired program. Remember to start early, take your time with each step, and keep track of your progress towards your goals. Good luck!