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How to Apply to an Institution for Graduate Study 

Applying for graduate programs in the United States can open doors to advanced academic and professional opportunities. However, the process can be intricate and requires meticulous preparation. This guide is designed to help students from Liberia and other African countries navigate the application process for graduate programs in the U.S. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from gathering essential documents to avoiding scams, ensuring that your application is successful.

1. Recognizing Schools and Avoiding Scams

  1. Ensure the institution is accredited by a recognized U.S. accrediting body. You can verify this on the U.S. Department of Education’s website (https://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home)

2. When you visit the link, carefully search for the school’s name (make sure to spell the name correctly). 

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3. Once the school name appears in the search results, click on it. You will see full details about the school, including the official website, the year it was accredited, and other relevant information. ​

4. If a correctly spelled school name does not appear, contact the U.S. Department of Education for verification by emailing aslrecordsmanager@ed.gov or dapip@inovas.net. They will respond to your inquiry.

Look for the (.edu) in the website

U.S. educational institutions typically have a ".edu" domain at the end of their website URL homepage (for example: www.harvard.edu is the website homepage for Harvard University). This method of edu is a strong indicator of a legitimate U.S school. 

Be Careful of Scammers

  • If you receive an offer of admission without applying or are asked to pay large sums upfront, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate institutions require a formal application process. 

  • If the website link provided during the accreditation verification process differs from the one you find elsewhere, it could be a scam. 

2. Application Fee

  • This varies by institution. Some schools may waive this fee, while others require payment. Graduate programs typically charge an application fee ranging from $50 to $150.

  • Be cautious of schools that ask for unusually high fees upfront. Legitimate institutions typically have modest application fees or offer fee waivers.

3. Academic Transcripts

  • Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended, including your undergraduate degree and any additional coursework or degrees.

  • Why It’s Important: Graduate programs use your academic history to assess your readiness for advanced study.

  • Where to Get It: Request your transcripts from the registrar’s office of your previous institutions. Ensure they are sent directly to the U.S. institution in sealed envelopes or through an approved electronic service. Some schools simply just ask you for a scanned pdf copy. 

Standardized Test Scores (GRE, GMAT, etc.)

  • Depending on your program, you may need to submit scores from standardized tests like the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test). Some programs may also require subject-specific tests.

  • Where can I register for the test? You can register for the GRE at https://www.ets.org/gre.html and for the GMAT at MBA.com.

  • Where can I write the test? When registering for the test, it will tell you where in your country you can go and write the test. In Liberia, you can take the test at designated testing centers like the American Embassy and a particular school. 

  • These tests provide a standardized measure of your academic abilities, helping U.S. institutions compare applicants from different educational systems. 

5. English Proficiency Test Scores (TOEFL and Doulingo)

  • You would need to submit a proof that you have taken and passed English proficiency tests like TOEFL and Duolingo. 

  • Why: If English is not your first language, U.S. institutions require evidence that you can communicate effectively in English. It is important to note that most US schools require that you submit a score whether or not you are from an English speaking country. 

  • We recommend Duolingo, because it’s cheaper and can be taken online. However, you can do whatever is best for you and what your school wants. 

 6. Personal Statement or Essay

  • What You Need: A compelling personal statement or essay that highlights your experiences, academic goals, and why you are interested in the specific institution.

  • Why It’s Important: U.S. institutions use this essay to understand who you are beyond your grades. It’s your opportunity to stand out from other applicants. 

7. Admission Essay Tips

  • Be Authentic: Share real stories about yourself. Talk about your experiences, challenges, and what makes you unique. Admissions officers want to know the real you. Genuine stories help them connect with you.

  • Adding Your Vision and Unique Story

  1. Share Your Vision: Describe your future goals and how the education you receive will help you achieve them. 

  2. Unique Story: Reflect on a significant experience from your life or high school journey. 

  3. ● Connect the Two: Link your story to your vision. Example: 

  • Be Specific:

  1. Explain why you chose this school. Mention specific programs or opportunities that interest you. 

  2. What It Means: Showing that you’ve researched the school demonstrates your commitment and helps them see you as a good fit. 

  1. Discuss ways you have volunteered or positively impacted your community or country. 

  2. What It Means: Schools appreciate students who contribute to their communities. It shows you care about others and are willing to take action.

  • Highlight Your Community Impact and any Award

  • Show Growth: Share how you have overcome challenges or learned from experiences.
    What It Means: Schools look for resilience. They want to see that you can handle difficulties and grow from them.

  • Express Your Passion: Talk about what excites you about your chosen field of study and your
    future goals. Passionate students often succeed. Showing enthusiasm for your interests
    helps demonstrate your dedication.

  • Seek Feedback: Have teachers, family, or friends read your essay and give you feedback
    before you submit it. Fresh eyes can help you spot mistakes or unclear sections. Feedback can
    improve your writing and make your essay stronger.

8. Letters of Recommendation

  1. You need 2-3 recommendation letters. Ths can come from teachers, school administrators, or other professionals who know you well.

  2. These letters provide insight into your academic abilities, character, and potential for success in college.

  3. Request letters from teachers who have taught you in subjects relevant to your intended major. Provide them with your resume and personal statement to help them write a strong letter.a

Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Résumé

A detailed CV or résumé outlining your academic background, work experience, research, publications, internships, and any other relevant activities.

  • Why It’s Important: A CV or résumé helps the admissions committee understand your qualifications, professional experience, and readiness for graduate study. It also highlights your accomplishments and areas of expertise.

  • Tips: Focus on relevant experiences, list any academic publications or presentations, and tailor your CV to the specific program you are applying to.

Some programs, particularly research-based master's programs, require a detailed research proposal outlining the research you intend to conduct during your studies.

  • Why It’s Important: The research proposal demonstrates your understanding of the field, your ability to conduct independent research, and your preparedness for advanced study.

  • Tips: Clearly define your research question, methodology, and the significance of your research. Make sure it aligns with the expertise of the faculty in the program.

10. Research Proposal (If Required)

Schools that do not offer full scholarships require you to submit financial documents after receiving your admission letter. This is necessary for them to issue your I-20 document.

11. Financial Documentation for receiving I-20 after receiving Admission

Common Financial Documents Needed:

  1. Bank Statement: A recent statement showing sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses as requested by the school.

  2. Affidavit of Support: A signed document from a sponsor (like a family member) confirming they will support your education financially.

  3. Scholarship Letters: If you have any scholarships, include official letters that outline theamount awarded in the scholarship.

12. Enrollment Deposit

Some U.S. schools require an enrollment deposit to secure your place after you accept their admission letter.

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  1. This deposit is usually non-refundable, and sometime, must be paid before the school issues your I-20. 

13. The I-20 and F1 Visa Process

Receiving the I-20 Form

  1. After you’ve been admitted and submitted your financial documents, the institution will issue an I-20 document.

  2. The I-20 is essential for applying for an F1 student visa, as it confirms your enrollment and financial capability.

Applying for the F1 Visa

  1. Complete and submit the DS-160 visa application form, pay the SEVIS fee ($350 USD), and schedule an interview appointment in the U.S. Embassy embassy website, and pay the appointment fee ($160) at a designated bank. For Liberia, the appointment fee can be paid at GT Bank.

  2. Feel free to contact us if you need help in applying for an F1 Visa.

How to Pay the SEVIS Fee

  1. Visit the official SEVIS I-901 website: fmjfee.com.

  2. Fill out the I-901 form with your information, including your SEVIS ID, which is located on

  3. Choose a payment method. You can pay using:

  • Credit or debit card

  •  Third-party payment (someone else can pay on your behalf)

  •  Bank transfer or Western Union Quick Pay (if applicable)

  4. After filling out the form and selecting your payment method, submit the payment.
  5. After payment, you will receive a confirmation receipt. Make sure to print or save this
receipt, as you will need it for your visa application.

14. Documents to Bring to the Visa Interview

  1. Passport: Your valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay in the U.S.

  2. DS-160.Form DS-160 Confirmation Page: Print and bring the confirmation page with the barcode after submitting your DS-160.

  3. Visa Appointment Confirmation: Bring the confirmation of your visa interview appointment.

  4. SEVIS Fee Receipt: The receipt proving you paid the SEVIS I-901 fee.

  5. Form I-20: Your signed Form I-20 issued by the school you will be attending.

  6.  Financial Documents: Bank statements, affidavits of support, or scholarship letters to demonstrate your ability to fund your education.

  7. Academic Documents: Transcripts, degree, or standardized test scores (e.g., GRE and GMAT).

  8. Additional Supporting Documents: Any other documents that support your

  9. Show up ahead of time to avoid being late.

  10. Prepare ahead of time for the interview.

15. International Student Employment

  1. On-Campus Employment
    ● F1 students are only allowed to work up to 20 hours per week on campus during academic semesters and full-time during breaks. On-campus employment is an excellent way to earn money and
    gain experience without violating your visa terms.

  2. Optional Practical Training (OPT)
    After completing your degree, you may be eligible for OPT, which allows you to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months in your field of study. OPT provides valuable work experience and can enhance your career prospects.

  3. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
    CPT allows you to work off-campus in your field of study while still enrolled in your degree program. Why It’s Important: This is an opportunity to gain practical experience related to your major.

  4. Economic Hardship Employment 

If you face unexpected financial difficulties during your studies, you may apply for off-campus employment authorization under severe economic hardship. You must have completed one academic year, be in good academic standing, and prove that employment is necessary to alleviate severe financial hardship caused by circumstances beyond your control.

Note

Remember that the U.S. The Embassy has the final say on granting your student visa, so prepare thoroughly. We hope this guide has provided you with the information you need to start your journey towards studying in the United States. Blessings!

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be taken as legal advice. Admission requirements and visa regulations may change, so always community with the school designated immigration officer to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

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