Top tips on applying to US grad schools

Dubai: Students apply for postgraduate degrees in the US for several reasons. Many seek advanced knowledge to secure higher-paying positions, while others hope to work there after completing their degree. Yet others may simply be looking for a few years of international experience.

Admissions to postgraduate programmes is highly competitive and students who invest time in the application process will have an advantage. Here are four tips that will help your application stand out:

1. Familiarise yourself with the different degree options: At some universities, the degree offered may be called an MA (Master of Arts) while at others, an MSc (Master of Science).

Some university departments require an MA or MSc degree before accepting students onto its PhD programmes. From the onset determine your eligibility and degree options, including, for example, types of degrees offered, duration of degrees and if research – or just coursework – is required to graduate.

2. Know the admissions requirements of your chosen degree programme: Nearly all US postgraduate programmes will require the TOEFL or IELTS – English language speaking tests. Even if you speak fluently, it is a good idea to sit for the exam to eliminate and doubt of your English language abilities.

Most programmes will also require another test – the GRE for most master’s and doctoral degrees and the GMAT, LSAT and MCAT for business, law and medical degrees.

The GRE offers many subject-based exams often required for PhD candidates.

Take the required or recommended exams early enough in the admissions process to be able to send official scores to universities in order to be eligible for admission.

3. Consider funding for your postgraduate degree: Most science and engineering doctoral (PhD) programmes in the US are funded by the university or by the advising professor’s research grants. Humanities and social science PhD programmes might be funded by teaching assistantships. Most master’s degree programs are funded by the student.

You should be prepared to finance your education, either privately or through scholarships. Annual tuition in the US varies – public universities are typically more affordable than private universities. Be aware of the duration of the degree, as cost varies based on this.

4. Start early! As with any admissions process in the US, it is best to prepare early to be eligible. Most postgraduate programmes application deadlines are in December. Alhough many will have February, March, or even later deadlines – for entry in September. The postgraduate admissions process can be complicated and confusing, especially for international students. Be informed early in the process so you have the best options available to you.

Dr Stephen Friedfeld is the former assistant dean of admissions at Cornell University and former associate dean of admissions at Princeton University. He is now associated with Intelligent Partners, a Dubai-based educational consultancy for students looking to study abroad. For more information log onto: http://www.intelligentgulf.com