Version 1- You are applying to a grad school directly

1. Version 1- You are applying to a grad school directly Before you even think applying make sure that you have cleared TOEFL and GRE (for some, not all schools) Choose a grad school, visit the proper web site, download all needed forms Prepare all needed transcripts, personal statements and letters of recommendation, whatever else Mail the forms Grad school will only check the validity of your documents, but the acceptance decision will be made by the particular department according to your qualifications and the needs for research i.e. funding available. (In our department, the policy is to reject regardless of academic standing if the funding is not available.) Congratulations if accepted

2. Version 2- You are contacting a professor directly (a better approach) Before you even think applying make sure that you have cleared TOEFL and GRE (for some, not all schools) Know a professor in the area of your interest. Make a direct contact, but be ready. Explain that you like the research area (read the papers), and that you have some ideas of your own. Also write almost a mini proposal (2-3 pages). In the same time provide your vitae. Emphasize your strong points. If the professor likes what he/she sees, you will get a reply encouraging you to apply to a grad school. You will be even instructed how to apply andyou will get a full help in the process. If you do not get a reply, you are not wanted. Prepare all needed transcripts, personal statements and letters of recommendation, whatever else. Mail the forms to a grad school (Literally, you have been already accepted)