Below is an outline of the general requirements for applying to graduate school (Master’s degree and beyond) in the USA. Requirements may vary depending on different departments and universities so please check for details with your graduate school of interest.
General Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent from accreditated institution
- Graduate programs may have minimum GPA requirement
- Unofficial transcript
- Several copies may be required
- If transcript is not in English, submission of the transcript in the original language as well as one with an English translation is required
- Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)
- TOEFL / IELTS
- Proof of proficiency in the English language may be required for students applying from countries where English is not the official language
- Letters of Recommendation (at least 3)
- These are letters written by your professors, preferably those who can endorse your academic promise, character and skills. Since professors are usually busy, it is best to request for recommendations a month or two before the December / January application deadline.
- It is recommended that you spend time to get to know your professors if you are planning on doing graduate school. Additionally, if your graduate program of interest is research-based, involvement in research with professors and graduate students as an undergraduate may be helpful.
- Application Essays
- Some graduate schools may request for either one of or both Personal Statement and Statement of Purpose. These two are different in that
- Personal Statement shares what you have done up to this point in life and how your experiences have motivated you to pursue your program of interest
- Statement of Purpose focuses more on your academic/research experiences and how the school’s graduate program is in line with your educational and career goals
- Some graduate schools may request for either one of or both Personal Statement and Statement of Purpose. These two are different in that
Bruneian's Guide to US Education 