In the previous episode of Students Speak, we explored Dilip Kumar Kasina’s academic journey so far, university & course, his reason for pursuing higher education, and his other choices apart from the US. In this episode, let’s dive deeper into his extensive research, the university application process, and things to keep in mind during the admission process.

Key Highlights:

• His extensive research commenced in 2020
• University application process
• Things to keep in mind during the admission process

His extensive research commenced in 2020

It is important to note that the study abroad journey requires rigorous planning. Although Dilip started planning for his university admission in 2023, he started his initial research way back in 2020. He first bifurcated the educational institutions based on the university rankings and study programs. He studied the curriculum of these programs in detail, as his priority was the coursework. The MS in Data Analytics offered by San Jose State University included Big Data, which matched his expectations perfectly.

Moreover, he also gathered information about the faculty members, their areas of expertise and experience. It is necessary to know their profile as they will chisel your ideas and impart valuable lessons. He also watched several YouTube videos to learn about the experiences of students currently studying in the US. Several vloggers provide glimpses into student life in US universities through YouTube videos.

Additionally, he referred to LinkedIn to view alumni profiles to understand the placement opportunities provided by their universities and the openings they grabbed post-completion of their higher studies. We are simply impressed with the intricate research mechanism employed by Dilip and encourage the prospective study abroad aspirants to follow in his footsteps.

University application process

Students need to first be ready with their English proficiency exam and entrance exam results. Depending on your university, you can appear for English language tests such as IELTS, Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Pearson Test of English (PTE), or Duolingo English Test (DET). Also, you need to take standardised exams such as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), which is exclusively for MBA and Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) designed for degree courses, including business management studies. 

Things to keep in mind during the admission process

Study abroad students have to share their English proficiency and entrance exam scores with their chosen university. Dilip used the World Education Services (WES) platform to convert his exam scores to GPA (Grade Point Average), as most US universities will require it. Universities will also need a Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letter of Recommendation (LOR), and resume. SOP is an essay capturing your academic journey, reasons to study in your chosen university and country, rationale for choosing the course, career aspirations, and more. LOR is given by your professor, who has mentored you and can provide a glimpse into your academic performance, achievements, abilities, skills, and overall personality. Once you have all your documents, including academic transcripts, SOP, LOR and resume ready, you can apply by visiting the official university website.

After you have applied to the university, the admission committee will thoroughly evaluate your documents, academic performance, etc. Depending on the university, it may take 1-2 months to know if you have secured a university seat. It is crucial to share the correct contact details to receive notifications from the university. Dilip highlighted that students must thoroughly review the college portal to know the exact eligibility criteria and university admission requirements.

So, in this episode, we have captured Dilip’s extensive research, the university application process, and things to keep in mind during the admission process. In the next episode, let’s understand his preparatory phase, how he found a perfect education loan partner and his invaluable tips for study abroad aspirants. Meanwhile, if you have any queries, please contact us, and we will gladly assist you.