It is the peak of application season for 2022 admissions. As an international student, you’ll probably not know that there are four documents you need to possess besides your travel documents as you apply for that admission abroad. Nonetheless, we have compiled a list of 4 must-have school application documents before clicking the apply button to enable a successful admission:
Statement of Purpose/ Personal Statement
It is an admission or application essay, written by an applicant, often a prospective student applying to some college, university or graduate school. Moreover, it is referred to as a piece of writing that one submits as part of the application season. A Personal statement is a statement of academic interests and should not contain any autobiographical information about your personal life. Your statement must be eye-catching, have an interesting introduction and an engaging middle part and conclusion. Your introduction should act as a framework for the rest of your statement, it should highlight your interests, experience and knowledge.
Academic CV
It details your educational background, awards, professional appointment, grants, publications, fellowship, research and teaching experience and other key achievements. Academic CV can be of any length. However, when writing an academic cv, consider your audience, make it easy to read, think about the structure, be consistent and make sure to carefully edit. Finally, add your contact information. Academic CV showcases one’s skills and academic and professional achievements, endeavor not to be shy or lie about it.
Reference Letter
Reference letter is a positive endorsement of a person’s skills and attributes written by someone familiar with their work, character and accomplishment. This letter is needed when applying for jobs, internships, volunteer positions, colleges, and graduate school programs. The reference letter explains why admission officers should select a candidate and what qualifies the candidate for the opportunity they’re applying for. Reference letters are categorized into professional references, personal references, and academic references.
- Personal references: this type of reference letter is written by a family friend, neighbour, mentor who can speak on your behalf and proof that you’re a good candidate for the position you’re seeking. This letter explains how the writer knows you and discusses your attributes as they would apply in a job setting.
- Professional references: it is usually written by a supervisor, colleague, client, teacher, or professor that is well-acquainted with your accomplishments in a work-type setting. This letter explains your abilities, describes your position, responsibilities, qualifications, duration of time in the company, and contributions to the organization.
- Academic references: this is written by a teacher, professor, or academic advisor. This letter discusses the candidate’s educational background and academic achievements.
Writing Sample
These are simply good examples of your writing skills. This is designed to ascertain whether you have the necessary writing and often research skills to complete the required tasks of the position or application you seek. If you are asked to provide a writing sample to the admission officer, here are guidelines to help you write;
- Step 1-brainstorm ideas for your writing sample
- Step 2-select one of your ideas
- Step 3-it should be well-written
- Step 4-make it clear, concise and direct to the point
- Step 5-edit your writing sample
When you have acquired all four documents, endeavour to submit your applications with plenty of time to spare before the deadline. It will ensure that your application is sent on time and also shows that you are someone who organizes their time well.
Do you need help with any of these? Speak with a consultant
