The United States of America being a reputable and successful country, is the dream country of most people. To make things easier, it is prominent in research work with adequate funding. This makes it suitable for graduate students who want to advance their studies.
With this desire being the goal of most individuals, we have put together some important steps to take towards securing funding for your studies in the US.
Steps To Secure Funding For Your Studies in The US
1 – Prepare Key Application Documents
Prepare enhanced drafts of:
Academic CV: Highlight academic achievements, research experience, skills, and relevant extracurricular activities.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): Clearly articulate research interests, academic goals, and motivation for graduate study.
Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Secure recommendations from academic or professional mentors familiar with your work.
2 – Compile Academic Transcript and CV
Obtain your Academic Transcript and merge it with your CV into a single PDF document.
3 – Define Research Interests
Identify 4-5 research areas aligned with your course of study, considering:
Interdisciplinary connections
Current research trends
Potential applications
4 – Research Universities and Professors
Find universities with professors specializing in your research interests using:
Google searches (e.g., “professors in [research area] at [university]”), Twitter, LinkedIn, University websites, etc.
5 – Filter Universities by Admission Requirements
Identify universities:
Waiving GRE, TOEFL, and evaluation fees
Offering test-optional policies
Having flexible admission requirements
6 – Stay Informed About Application Opportunities
Stay alert for:
Virtual open days
School fairs
Application waiver codes
Deadline extensions
7 – Submit Applications
Apply to multiple schools:
Offering your discipline
Having professors aligned with your research interests
Providing funding opportunities
8 – Craft Letters of Intent
Monitor advertised positions and craft compelling Letters of Intent, demonstrating:
Thorough research on the lab or workgroup
Alignment with research interests
Potential contributions
9 – Consider Less Competitive Universities
Explore universities in less competitive, colder regions of the USA, which often receive fewer applications.
10 – Optimize CV for Funding Opportunities
Tailor your CV to increase your chances of securing:
Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA)
Teaching Assistantship (GTA)
Graduate Assistantship (GA) positions
Research these opportunities and review expert advice from graduate school coaches to strengthen your application.
By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared for the graduate school admission season, increasing your chances of securing funding and admission to your desired program.
