How to Ace University Applications

Have you ever wondered what sets students apart when applying to top universities? In today's increasingly competitive environment, here are a few tips to help you stand out:

• Research the school and programme - pay attention to requirements

The first step towards being a successful applicant is doing your research to ensure that you are the right candidate for the program you are applying to and that it aligns with your personal goals. Unfortunately, just having good grades does not cut it anymore. The admissions committee is interested in your alignment with the programme. Pay particular attention to the requirements of the program and ensure that you meet them. Even more, take time to do a deep dive into the university and the particular program and tailor-make your application to suit it. Check the values of the institution, location and affiliations and ensure that these align with you. For instance, its mission should resonate with you. Ask yourself if the location for example, gives you a particular advantage in building a network or whether it makes research in a particular area of your interest easier. Also, look into the programme structure and even the lecturers and their research areas. Acknowledging the uniqueness of the program or university will help you in preparing your application accordingly. Even more, be sure to take note of deadlines and any requirements that may take time to prepare. This may include, but is not limited to transcripts, language tests, recommendation letters and bank statements. Deadlines and incomplete applications are an automatic disqualification for most institutions. 

• Build a strong profile

The strength of your profile will help you stand out. A good application starts with good grades. Although your other qualities are considered, most reputable programmes have a cut off point. Ensure you meet these requirements in your academic grades, test scores and language tests. This will strengthen your application profile. In addition, some institutions will require you to provide a CV or at least information about yourself. Admission committees are increasingly on the lookout for well-rounded applicants. This means not only should you have good grades, but you should also be a good citizen, driven and willing to bring ideas to life. Volunteering experiences in your community or for a particular cause such as education or climate will give you an upper hand. Initiatives to create solutions to problems, work and leadership experiences, training and projects you have participated in will help to build your profile and show that you are proactive. Do your best to align these with the program and ensure the admissions committee sees what an asset you are and how you benefit others. Do your best to submit your application early as  some institutions admit on a first-come first-serve basis.

• Good personal statement - grammar, personal story

A good personal statement is non-negotiable. Firstly, the essay must be error free and well-structured. Online applications like Grammarly can help you achieve this. However, that’s not all. Your story must also be captivating and should give the committee the impression that you are capable of excelling in the programme and that you are worthy of their time. Imagine this as five minutes to introduce yourself and show why you are the best candidate for the programme. Your storytelling skills will be put to the test. A strong opening line like, "The moment I stood in front of the ER door, unsure if the patient would make it through the night, I realized that healthcare wasn’t just a career for me—it was a calling." will capture the reader’s attention. Start your personal statement early to allow time for a second and third opinion as well as proofreading. Pay attention to the universities guidelines for what they are looking for and show that in the personal statement. If you can, attend the universities webinars and reach out to current students on how they structured their own letters. Even as you seek out opinions however, remember to stay authentic and truthful. The admissions committee can tell if you enlist AI or plagiarise. You are better off being honest and telling your own story. Ensure that you highlight your strengths and work you have done, as well as how the uniqueness of the particular program aligns with your past experience and future career goals.

• Pick referrals and people who write your recommendations carefully

In some instances, universities may require recommendation letters. Now these are formal letters and will either be from academic or work supervisors. Avoid asking friends and family as their letters are not considered formal or authentic evaluations. These letters should come from either professional or academic settings. It is important to choose carefully who writes this letter for you. Ensure you have a good relationship with the person and they are able to corroborate your experiences and strengths. They should be able to vouch for you and write a good personalised letter. It is important to choose a referee early and approach them on time, letting them know what you specifically need from them and by when. 

• Prepare adequately for interviews

Lastly, prepare adequately for interviews. Remember, if you get to this stage it means your documents are in order and you have been shortlisted. Aim to impress by doing your research on the university and program, being on time and dressing appropriately. This means dressing formally and ensuring you are well groomed. Also, practice on how to communicate and engage during the interview, as well as questions to expect. Be composed and calm. You got this far!

The tips may not be exhaustive, but they sure will take you far. Remember, you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take so don’t disqualify yourself by not even trying. Reach out to that dream university, you may just be what they are looking for. All the best!

We at StudyApplyPortal understand that applying to universities can be a daunting task, even when you meet all the requirements. We are here to help you and see you achieve your academic goals by helping you curate a competitive profile. 

Our services include complete university and visa applications, interview preparation and auxiliary services such as accommodation and discounted flights to your study destination. Reach out to us at studyapplyportal.com to find out more about  how we can support you.