Avoid These Application Mistakes At Any Cost 🚫 | MS in USA

Summary

This video offers valuable advice for students applying to foreign universities, highlighting common mistakes that can significantly harm their chances. Key points include the miscalculation of GPAs, confusion between transcripts and marks memos, improper handling of test scores and recommendation letters, and choosing the wrong types of universities based on your profile. It also stresses the importance of strategic essay submissions and careful selection of safety schools. The video aims to help applicants avoid these pitfalls and navigate the application process more effectively, ultimately enhancing their prospects for success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Avoid recalculating your GPA to a 4.0 scale unless explicitly required by the university. Incorrect conversions can hurt your chances.
• 😀 Understand the difference between transcripts and mark memos. Only submit transcripts for foreign university applications.
• 😀 Do not send physical transcripts unless specifically requested. Scanned copies are typically sufficient.
• 😀 Ensure you follow the university's instructions regarding test score submissions. Some accept unofficial scores, while others require official reports.
• 😀 Trigger your recommender’s email request early so they have enough time to upload the recommendation letter before the deadline.
• 😀 Apply strategically to universities based on what they prioritize—some focus on GPA, while others may value work experience or other factors.
• 😀 Avoid applying to too many safety schools. Focus on one or two that align with your profile and give you realistic chances of admission.
• 😀 Don’t choose safety schools based purely on rankings. Location and industry access matter for career prospects post-graduation.
• 😀 Optional essays can enhance your application, but only attempt them if they add real value to your profile. Don’t submit weak essays.
• 😀 Be sure to understand the selection criteria for each university, especially in terms of GPA or work experience, to maximize your chances of acceptance.
• 😀 Don’t waste time and money on unnecessary applications. Focus on quality rather than quantity when selecting safety schools.

Q & A

What is the most common mistake applicants make when it comes to GPA conversion?

The most common mistake is assuming that their GPA from a non-US system directly converts to the US 4.0 scale. Many applicants use incorrect conversion formulas or make direct conversions, which can lead to an inaccurate representation of their GPA.

Do all US universities require applicants to convert their GPA to a 4.0 scale?

No, most US universities do not require applicants to convert their GPA. They usually ask for the GPA to be submitted as it is, unless explicitly mentioned in the application instructions.

What should applicants do if they are unsure about GPA conversion?

Applicants should check if the university specifically asks for a GPA conversion. If so, they should use the recommended tools provided by the university, such as W Evaluation or Scholaro.

What is the difference between a transcript and a marks memo?

A transcript is an official academic record from the university, while a marks memo is a document that lists individual exam results, which is not accepted by most foreign universities for application purposes.

How can submitting the wrong document affect an applicant's chances?

Submitting a marks memo instead of a transcript may not lead to direct rejection, but it can delay the application review process. This delay may cause other applicants to get reviewed and accepted/rejected before you.

When should applicants send their test scores to universities?

Applicants should only send official test scores through platforms like ETS when the university specifically asks for official reports. If unofficial scores are accepted, applicants can upload a PDF version of their score report.

Why is it important to trigger recommendation letter requests early in the application process?

Triggering the recommendation letter request early gives recommenders ample time to submit their letters before the deadline. Waiting until the last minute can lead to delays if recommenders are unreachable or overwhelmed.

What are the risks of applying to too many safety schools?

Applying to too many safety schools can be a waste of time and money since you can only attend one university. It is better to apply to one or two safety schools and focus on programs that align with your profile and aspirations.

How should applicants choose their safety schools?

Applicants should choose safety schools based on their location and industry opportunities, rather than solely relying on rankings. It is important that the location offers strong job prospects and internship opportunities.

Should applicants always attempt optional essays?

No, optional essays should only be attempted if the applicant has a compelling background or story that will add value to the application. Writing an inferior optional essay may hurt the application rather than enhance it.