If you are targeting the Fall 2025 US Master’s in US program, you are probably in the position of setting goals and timelines. It is important to set your overall objectives and create a time plan that enables you to accomplish all the tasks and meet all the deadlines stress-free. Whether you want to go into engineering, business, or any other field, do not procrastinate, for if you start early and stay organized, you will be able to excel within a competitive applicant pool.
Most of the time, students go for the Fall intake, but the Fall intake is great for those who are already past the Fall application deadlines or would rather start in a less competitive pool of applicants. It is probably better that way, as most students would be overcrowded in the Fall intakes. Such planning enables you to have a good chance to submit a more competitive application, raise your test scores, and aim at doing all this without any major weight on your shoulders.
What timeline will you set for yourself to be able to achieve your goals?
Such questions must be answered if you are aiming to apply for colleges that intake students in Fall 2025. As most deadlines range between the period of August to October 2024 for Fall intake, you can use the following steps to ensure that you meet your goals.
January – March 2024:
Begin by looking for suitable universities, their programs and course requirements; also book testing dates for GRE or GMAT or English proficiency exams such as TOEFL or IELTS if applicable.
April – June 2024:
Concentrate on review for your exams. Further, begin drafting your SOP and reaching out to possible recommenders for LORs.
April – June 2024:
You should take your preparation for the tests very seriously at this time. Start working on your Statement of Purpose stating your own reasons and also find some people you’d like to recommend you for Letters of Recommendation.
July – August 2024:
First, you should take your standardized tests, get your agreements signed and contact the people you need to get the documents (transcripts and test scores) you require in order to start.
August – October 2024:
Applications! Of course, it is not just applying, but it is also for scholarships. So make sure you send your application as early as possible.
Focus on Test Preparation
Most US Master’s programs will require students to take the GRE or the GMAT. This is because your scores have the capability of changing the entire outlook of your application and should, therefore, be a priority. Here are some recommendations:
Start early: If possible, have like 4 – 6 months to get ready for these tests.
Use a study plan: Have a schedule which will enable you to time yourself on what portion of the test should be studied at a particular time.
Take mock tests: You should practice mock tests so that you can see your performance and prepare yourself for the real test.
With regards to English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS, try to obtain a score that significantly exceeds the score regarded as minimal since it will enhance the other areas of your application.
Approach your recommenders early to give them ample time to write strong, thoughtful Letters of Recommendation that highlight your skills and potential.
Investigate Available Financial Aid
One thing that is for sure is that studying in the US can be quite expensive; therefore, searching for financial assistance options such as loans or other scholarships is of great importance. Explore the scholarships, grants or assistantships available for your university of choice. Proceed with your applications sooner since most scholarships coincide with the application deadlines. It will ensure that valuable opportunities of lowering the tuition fees do not go to waste.
Assistance Required?
Not certain about the process? It is for this reason that we at Vision International offer assistance on all matters, which include but are not limited to test preparation as well as final application submission. Call us now for assistance that has been catered to your needs or, for a start, read our Frequently Asked Questions to clarify on all the issues regarding a Master’s program in the USA.
Adhering to a strict schedule and defining your study aims will create a competitive application for the Fall 2025 intake. Don’t depend on anyone else to do it, take the chance and pursue your goal of studying in the US.