Application Process

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Application Process

Plan ahead and plan adequately for the time and effort involved in preparing your application package. If you are applying for MS in US Colleges and Universities, here is a list of documents you need to prepare and send it along with the application package.

Standardized tests :

Most or all graduate programs require one or more U.S. standardized test scores. Application requirements may vary depending on the school you apply, so confirm the test requirements of the institutions.

English Language Ability Tests :

To communicate fluently in English is a basic requirement for successful study in the United States. If English is not the native language, it is mandatory to take an English language proficiency test before admission.

Sometimes English language testing requirements might be waived for a non – U.S. citizen and non – native speaker of English who has been educated in English for most of their school life. This decision is made by the college or university admissions office, and is usually stated on the international admissions section of the website. The most common tests for English language ability are the :

Test of English as a Foreign Language ( TOEFL ) : TOEFL measures the ability of non – native English speakers to communicate in an academic setting.

  1. Internet – based TOEFL test and has four sections : reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
  2. Paper – based TOEFL provides testing in areas where the TOEFL is not available, and does not include a speaking section.
  3. For more information about TOEFL, visit the TOEFL website.

International English Language Testing System ( IELTS ) :

IELTS is a paper – based test that measures English language ability in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

    1. The reading and writing portions are available in two versions : (a) Academic – for students interested in pursuing higher education programs or a license in healthcare profession. (b) General Training – for test takers who need to use English daily for functional activities, secondary education, vocational training, work purposes, or immigration.
    2. Listening and speaking modules are same in both the versions.
    3. For more information about IELTS, visit the IELTS Website

Admission Tests :

Testing requirements vary greatly between graduate programs, so interested applicants should confirm directly with the school to which they plan to apply.

GRE : GRE is a standardized test of verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and analytical writing that measures readiness for graduate – level study. Many graduate and business schools accept GRE scores, so you might be able to take one test to pursue both options. Scores are valid for 5 years, so you can take the test now, even if you’re undecided about what you want to do. Skills measured on the GRE general test include :

Verbal Reasoning : Measures reading comprehension skills and verbal and analytical reasoning skills, focusing on your ability to analyze and evaluate written material.

Quantitative Reasoning : Measures problem – solving ability, focusing on basic concepts of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.

Analytical Writing : Measures critical thinking and analytical writing skills, specifically the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively.

GRE Subject Tests are offered as a way to emphasize your knowledge in a specific skill area. These tests may not be required, but they’re a great way to help increase your chances of getting noticed in the admissions process.

GRE Subject Tests are offered in : Biochemistry / Cell / Molecular  Biology / Biology / Chemistry / Computer  Science / Literature in English / Mathematics / Physics / Psychology

GMAT : GMAT is a standardized test for MBA applicants that measures basic verbal, mathematical, and analytical writing skills that have been developed over a long period of time through education and work. The GMAT does not measure knowledge of business, job skills, or specific content in undergraduate or first university course work or subjective qualities, such as motivation, creativity, and interpersonal skills. Preparation for the exam is absolutely essential because the test is intended to measure ability in verbal and quantitative reasoning and writing.

Personal statement or statement of purpose ( SOP ) :

The personal statement gives you the opportunity to show the admissions committee who you are as an individual. Your statement should be clear, concise, and persuasive. Highlight your unique strengths, skills, or teaching experiences to show the institution that you are a good match with the program and department to which you are applying.

School Transcripts : Your transcript is a list of classes you completed in your undergraduate studies and the grades you received in each class.

Recommendation letters : Ask past professors, administrators, or employers to write your letters of recommendation. Your recommenders must be able to write about your work and be able to assess your potential to do well as a graduate student. Be sure to choose someone who knows you well.