This is a Guest Blog by Poshak Agrawal, Co-Founder, Athena Education
You’ve built your profile, the test scores are in, and the essays are on point too. Now the dream is to study at one of the world’s top universities.
However, ahead looms the dreaded college application process. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate through your journey and avoid common mistakes.
Step 1: Create a roadmap with timelines
Approach the application process armed with a detailed roadmap and sharp deadlines for every step.
Work back from your deadlines. From shortlisting colleges to writing essays, start early, allow at least 7-8 months to compile everything.
#CommonMistake: “I can wait till the last deadline date to apply.” Sure, you can, but remember that most universities prefer the early applicant. Meeting Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED) deadlines boost your candidature.
Step 2: Find your fit
Such exciting courses, so many great universities, different geographies – preparing the college shortlist isn’t easy.
Evaluate the key factors—the college’s requirements, curriculum, estimated expenses, faculty, and the programme—keeping in mind your own unique context.
A liberal arts education in the States is ideal for someone seeking academic flexibility. If finishing your degree quickly is critical, colleges in the UK could be a better fit.
#CommonMistake: Applying to universities for their “brand”. Don’t be part of the herd, find a college that suits you. Remember, fit>brand.
Step 3: Draft compelling essays
Ah… essays! There is no way out here. You must draft and redraft till your essays are both impactful and authentic.
Personal Statements (UK): You’ll find that the tone of these is more formal and academic-oriented.
The Common Application Essay (CAE) for US applications is focused on your personal journey – what inspires you, what your failures have taught you, and how your background transformed your approach to life.
Supplemental Responses: Selective colleges have additional essay requirements. You have to establish how your ideals and goals are aligned with the colleges’ values and showcase how this relationship can be mutually beneficial. .
#CommonMistake: Drafting every essay from scratch. Customise your “Why X university?” or “the roommate” prompt to the college you’re applying to!
Step 4: Get the right LORs
Just 400-500 words long, the best Letters of Recommendation are succinct. Find a teacher who’s taught you, knows you, and can attest to your ability to succeed in a given program.
Feel free to send them pointers on your achievements and instances that showcase your commitment to the subject.
#CommonMistake: Blindly approaching a “reputed” teacher to write your LOR. Find someone who knows you well enough to write an insightful one.
Step 5: Work that Activities List
Got too much to write about, or too little? Students face different issues. Some quick tips:
- Choose activities that showcase both the consistency and diversity of your interests.
- Give preference to activities that hold more meaning.
- Arrange your activities in descending order of importance. Give precedence to those that are recent.
#CommonMistake: Gross Exaggerations. Admissions officers have a keen eye; they’re trained to catch lies.
Step 6: Be judicious with the extra bits!
- Additional Information Section: Use this space only if you have information that cannot be accounted for elsewhere in your application.
- Portfolio: Check for portfolio requirements if you’re applying to courses such as Design or Music.
- Financial Aid and Scholarships: These sections have separate requirements and need supporting documentation. Don’t leave them for the last moment.
Also, while many universities allow students to attach an optional art portfolio, you must consider whether your work reflects enough skill, diversity, and originality to merit the attachment.
Conclusion:
While the overseas education application process can seem intimidating, start in time and use the right approach. Before you know it, you’ll be waltzing your way into the college of your dreams!
