Application Process for Masters and PhDs (Fall 2025 Intake)

Timeline Overview

• Application Duration: 1 year
  • August 2024: Start applying
  • December-January: Deadlines typically end
• Eligibility: Apply in the final year of undergrad or current degree

Types of Degrees in the US

Master of Science (MS)

• Duration: 2 years
• Tracks:
  • Thesis Track: Paired with a professor, includes a research thesis
  • Non-Thesis Track: Coursework-based, no research required

Master of Engineering (M.Eng)

• Duration: 1 year
• Overview: Professional environment, industry-focused courses

PhD

• Duration: Minimum 3-4 years, can extend to 6-8 years
• Eligibility: Can apply directly after a bachelor's degree

Standardized Tests

• GRE: Common for MS and PhD applications
  • Competitive Score: 320-325+
• GMAT: Typically for business-related degrees

Application Requirements

Grades

• Importance: Essential for international students
• Evaluation: WES evaluation to convert and verify grades

Letters of Recommendation

• Sources: Professors or work supervisors
• Quantity: 2-4 letters

Resume/CV

• Resume: For professional degrees
• CV: For research-based programs

Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Content: Career goals, research interests, specific professors
• Formats: One SOP or separate academic and general SOPs

English Proficiency Tests

• Tests: TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo
• Good Score: TOEFL 100+

Funding Opportunities

Master of Science

• Thesis Track: Eligible for research/teaching assistantships
• Non-Thesis Track: Limited to teaching assistantships

Master of Engineering

• Funding: No funding options available

PhD

• Funding: Usually fully funded with research and teaching assistantships
• Additional Scholarships: Limited, mostly for MS students

Application Tips

• Deadlines: Vary by department and program
  • Suggestion: Submit applications 1 week to 10 days before deadlines
• Tracking: Use a spreadsheet to manage deadlines and application details
• Number of Applications: Apply to 10-20 colleges
• Preparation: Complete tests and start composing essays during the summer before the August application period

Additional Resources

• IVY League 101 Course: Guides the entire application process, includes templates and videos on various aspects like shortlisting colleges and contacting professors.

Engagement Query

• Interactive Question: Favorite professor or teacher, their subject, and personal impact.

Note: Avoid using AI tools like Chat GPT for generating application documents as detection tools could result in automatic rejection.