Every Spring, my heart breaks when a qualified international applicant inquires about admission to my #PhD Program.
The conversations are eerily similar.
Applicant: I am interested in applying to your #PhDprogram.
Jason: That's amazing. Could you share your resume?
Applicant: Here you go. Are you admitting #students now?
Jason: We just finished for next year. Apply for the following Fall?
Silence.
The applicant #ghosts me.
Sometimes, the applicant surfaces at another US school. Sometimes, the applicant surfaces at a non-US school that has rolling #admissions. Never, have I had the applicant apply to my program.
Why?
Because many applicants can't wait a year to enter a program. I get it. I would not want to wait a year.
Why the dumb #deadline?
Our PhD program has a limited number of slots for students & no ability to deviate from our cycle of courses & professional development activities.
I want a PhD. What should I do?
Option A. Wait and do nothing until Fall.
Option B. Apply elsewhere.
Option C. Plan for next year and apply early.
To help students plan, here are 12 tips.
In the Spring.
1. Tests matter. Take the required standardized tests now. Compare the score to what is required for admission. Then re-take the test if necessary. A low test score is the end of the party.
2. Identify the top schools in your field. Request admission packets.
3. Assess if a school matches your interests & request a call with the program coordinator. Make sure it is really where you want to go.
4. Write your statement of interest. Let it simmer. Revisit several times in the next six months.
5. Practice your spoken English. You will be interviewed. More than I like, spoken English is required for admission to a good PhD program.
6. Get your visa paperwork in order. Learn the requirements. They are not simple.
In the Fall.
1. Apply early. So, if you have done point 4, you know where you want to go. Why wait?
2. Waiting can cost you. If you wait to apply, you will miss opportunities. Most schools screen applicants before Christmas. Some make offers as early as Thanksgiving. Don't miss out.
3. Apply to at least five schools. It is better to have many offers than no offers.
4. Save money. If you are admitted, you will have to pay for your own travel & lodging.
5. Practice your written & spoken English. Practice your math. If admitted, they are critical success factors.
6. Take a holiday. No point in sitting around stressed. Right?
I know it must sound nuts to prepare now. But, if you do, it makes applications for the next year more straightforward.
Which means you are more likely to be accepted into the program of your choice.
The tips are great for domestic students too.
So prepare.
Don't break my heart next Spring!
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