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Chapter VII: Application Documentation
The U.S. university application process is a lengthy procedure that requires students to fill out many documents. Documents may differ, based on the department to which a student is applying. Therefore, it is very important to read the instructions carefully. Some universities do not process the application until they receive all the documents. Some universities provides conditional admission if the student is still completing his or her current course. Following is a list of required documents for an international applicant:
| Document Preparation Instruction | Copies |
|---|
| Application Document Checklist | 1 |
| University Application: Specify Application ID if applied online | 1 |
| Financial Support Form: Please use university form if available. A sample financial support form can be downloaded at http://www.f1study.com/docs/doc_3_f1study_financial_support.pdf. | 1 |
| Transcripts of Previous Degree: A copy of the degree or provisional certificate and all the mark sheets will be one set. Each set should be in separate envelope and sealed by the university. Students should write their full name and the name of the university to which they are applying on the envelope. | 2 |
| Resume: A sample resume can be downloaded at http://www.f1study.com/docs/doc_4_f1study_resume.pdf. | 1 |
| 3 Letters of Recommendation: Each letter should be in a sealed envelop with the reference's name on the front. Students should write their full name and the name of the university to which they are applying on the envelope. A sample can be viewed at http://www.f1study.com/html/recommendation_letters.html. | 1 |
| Bank Statement: An original copy of a recent bank statement should reflect the cash balance as required by the university. | 1 |
| Statement of Purpose: This should not be longer than two pages. A sample can be viewed at http://www.f1study.com/html/statement_of_purpose.html. | 1 |
| Standardized Test Scores: Scores must be sent to the universities through ETS. | 1 |
| TOEFL Test Scores: Scores must be sent to the universities through ETS. | 1 |
| Passport Copies: Copy the front and back of photo ID and signature pages. | 1 |
Statement of Purpose
Most applications ask for a statement of interest or an autobiographical statement. It is important for students to thoroughly research a field of study before applying to it. That way, they can effectively write about how they will fit into the program and how they program will best help them obtain the career of their choice. Admissions committees are impressed by students who have a strong sense of self and can creatively express themselves through writing. Students should begin their Statement of Purpose in a way that will catch the reader's attention, such as with a quote or personal anecdote. A student's Statement of Purpose should describe the following:
- Who the student is as a person and why they stand out from others
- Why the student is interested in a particular program
- How the particular program will help the student achieve his or her long-term goals and ambitions
Letters of Recommendation
As part of the application procedure, every university requires students to send three letters of recommendation. These letters should be from professional references, such as teachers or employers, who can verify that the student is an outstanding candidate for a program. Family, friends, and character witnesses should not be references. It is important that the person providing the recommendation has a good understanding of the student's academic history, interests, goals, and direction. The letters should be confidential and not be discussed with the applicant. Therefore, it is important that the applicant choose references that he or she can trust to write a good recommendation. Following are several points to remember:
- The letter is typed on official letterhead.
- The letter should have the reference's signature.
- The letter is enclosed in a sealed envelope.
The Resume
The resume should provide a snapshot of the student's life on approximately two pages. Students should verify the following in their resume:
- Personal information, including name, address, telephone number, and email address
- Academic history, including highest completed degree and relevant courses
- Employment history, including job titles, responsibilities, and the start and end dates
- Volunteer work
- Professional memberships or affiliations
- Awards and recognitions
- Certifications
- The names and contact information of at least three references
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