How to Get Admission To US Universities?

 

May students aspire to study in US Universities. Us offers some of the best universities in the world, with the best education and course curriculum. All this might sound very interesting, but getting admission at one of the US universities is not an easy task. You have to start preparing way ahead of the application deadlines and make sure you have everything just right to ensure your admission at one of the US universities.

The first step is to submit separate applications to each US University that you have shortlisted for your study abroad. There is no rule stating the number of universities that you can apply to. However, experts recommend students to apply to at least 6-7 universities at the time of applications. Remember that every university might have a separate application deadline and admission requirement.

Make it a point to send your applications before the university deadlines, this could be as early as 10 months before the start of the new academic year. It is always better to inquire with the respective universities before applying.

Mostly university websites provide access to fast and easy access to application forms, then also time is needed to research the options and get in touch with the teachers and institutions back at home for recommendation letters and transcripts.

Application Process

The students applying for graduate schools need to submit exam scores like GRE or GMAT. In response the admission officer would send the information regarding the academic programs and application form of the university.

The fees for each application may vary from US$35- US$100. This application processing fees is non-refundable even if you don’t get admission in the university. In case the application is mailed, contact the admission office of the specific College to make sure that they have received your application.

The admissions office would review your past academic background. If you are attending any school than you need to mail certified academic record or the transcript to the US universities you are applying to. Before appearing for the admission tests, assemble the official score reports to be sent to the universities where you seek admission.

Admission Process

International students need to take either IELTS or TOEFL, which are language tests that measure their English proficiency skills. These tests can be taken at various centers spread across the world. These tests are standardized in nature, thus the admission score is uniform measuring the English language ability of the candidates.

The test scores are directly sent to the US universities that you have applied to. At the time of test registration you need to specify the names of the US universities where you have filled the application form.

After the application deadline is over, you start getting acceptance letters from the chosen US universities. Few of the universities update the candidates about their acceptance after they receive the documents. On the other hand many universities have several months wait time to inform all candidates in one go.

As soon as the admission is secured you need to deposit fees by a given deadline, so that their space is reserved in the academic semester.

Sample SOP for MS in Computer Science

         

Wish to apply to MS in Computer Science? Here are a few things you must know.

Why study MS in Computer Science?

Technology is growing rapidly; professionals in Computer Science are in high demand to develop solutions for technological and computer-related challenges. A host of career opportunities await those who complete Master in CS programs from reputed US universities. Areas of specializations in this field include Information Systems, Systems Engineering, Instructional Design and Technology, Health Informatics, and Cyber security. A master’s degree holder in Computer Science can expect a salary of US $80,000 to $140,000 per annum.
So, if you have decided to apply to US Universities for MS, one of the most important factors of your application is Statement of Purpose (SOP).

How important is an SOP?

SOP gives you a sure shot opportunity to convince the admission committee that you are a suitable candidate. It goes without saying that you must meet all other criteria to qualify. The SOP should include your educational background, academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and your future goals.
Take a look at this sample SOP to get a better idea.

Sample SOP

Name of Student – (Your name)
Course Applied – MS in Computer Science
I consider myself lucky to be in an era of technological and computing revolution that potentially redefines our lives. Advances in computer science influence nearly all other fields, from health to education. I am excited at the prospect of dedicating my career to this fast growing industry. Over the years, I have witnessed the rise of the modern computing industry and I can sense that there are still developments to come and challenges to overcome. Adam Osborne once said, “The future lies in designing and selling computers that people don’t realize are computers at all.”

Right from my childhood, I have enjoyed experimenting with computers and applications. So, it was natural for me to choose Computer Science as my area of study for bachelor’s degree at ABC College in India. Now, I at the end of my undergraduate studies, am determined to continue my education in this field, but in a more competitive and global environment.

You may ask, “why US?” Computers contribute nearly 10% of America’s GDP. The nation is way ahead of any others in technology. This would give me the best opportunities and infrastructure currently available. I chose to apply to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology for Master of Science in Computer Science because it is one of the renowned educational institutions in terms of university reputation, research and faculty in Computer Science department.

The comprehensive curriculum of ABC University’s content has given me exposure to the core areas of Computer Science and I have thorough understanding of the concepts.

Over the past two years, I have developed an interest in mobile computing. As part of a mandatory project in my final semester of study, I worked on developing a word-processing application that would work even on Java-based mobile devices. Growing in a developing country where smart-phones are still a luxury to many, I knew that such a system can make a huge difference. The external reviewer rated my project 4.5 out of a maximum of 5 rating points. However, for my MS degree, I wish to explore other areas of Computer Science as well.

It is important to discuss, think and re-think before you reach a conclusion. It is this belief that motivated me to join the online technology forum at our University. Soon, as one of the moderators and a key participant of this forum, I was able to help numerous students with technology related challenges. Eventually, this became a confidence booster for me. It taught me that the basis for good work is planning and most importantly, in-depth analysis. I also learned to accept criticisms and use them to improve my works.

In conclusion, I would like to say that an opportunity to study MS in Computer Science at your University will be a major step towards achieving my goals. I hope I will be provided an opportunity to pursue my graduate studies with financial assistance at your institution.


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