How to Apply for Master's Programs
What you need: transcripts, recommendations, statement of purpose, tests, and more.
The Application Process#
Applying to Master's programs in America requires several components. Each piece of your application serves a different purpose, and programs use them together to evaluate whether you are a good fit. Here is what you need.
Bachelor's Degree#
You must have completed a bachelor's degree (or be in your final year) before enrolling in a Master's program. Your degree does not need to be from an American university. Programs accept degrees from universities around the world, though they may evaluate your institution's reputation and grading system.
If your degree is from a non-American university, some programs will require you to have your transcripts evaluated by a credential evaluation service such as WES (World Education Services) or ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators).
Transcripts#
You will need to submit official transcripts from every university you have attended. Transcripts show your courses, grades, and degree conferral. Most programs want to see strong academic performance, particularly in courses relevant to your intended field of study.
If your transcripts are not in English, you will need certified translations.
Letters of Recommendation#
Most programs require two or three letters of recommendation. These should come from people who know your academic or professional abilities well. Professors who taught you, research supervisors, and direct work supervisors are the best choices.
Tips for Strong Recommendations#
- Ask people who can speak specifically about your abilities, not just say you are a good person
- Give your recommenders at least one month of notice before the deadline
- Provide them with your resume, statement of purpose, and a summary of why you are applying
- Choose recommenders who know you well over famous people who barely know you
Statement of Purpose#
The statement of purpose is one of the most important parts of your application. It is an essay explaining why you want to pursue this Master's degree, why you are interested in this specific program, and what you plan to do with the degree after graduating.
What to Include#
- Your academic and professional background
- Why you want to study this particular field
- Why this specific program is right for you (mention faculty, courses, or resources)
- Your career goals and how the degree will help you achieve them
- Any relevant experience (research, work, volunteer)
What to Avoid#
- Generic statements that could apply to any program
- Repeating your resume in paragraph form
- Focusing only on your past without connecting it to your future goals
- Writing more than the word limit
Resume or CV#
Your resume or CV should include your education, work experience, research experience, publications (if any), skills, and relevant activities. For Master's applications, keep it to one or two pages unless the program specifies otherwise.
Academic CVs tend to be longer than professional resumes and include more detail about research, teaching, and publications.
Standardized Tests#
GRE (Graduate Record Examination)#
Many Master's programs have made the GRE optional in recent years. However, some programs still require or recommend it. Check each program's requirements carefully. If a program says "GRE optional," submitting a strong score can still help your application.
English Language Tests#
If English is not your first language, you will need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Competitive programs typically expect TOEFL scores of 100+ or IELTS scores of 7.0+. Some programs also accept Duolingo English Test scores.
Start preparing for these tests early. If your scores are below a program's minimum, you will not be considered regardless of how strong the rest of your application is.
Writing Sample#
Some programs, particularly in the humanities, social sciences, and MFA programs, require a writing sample. This is usually an academic paper, creative writing sample, or professional report that demonstrates your ability to think critically and write clearly.
Submit your best work, and make sure it is relevant to the program you are applying to. If the program specifies a page limit, follow it exactly.
Application Fees#
Most programs charge an application fee, typically between $50 and $100 per application. This can add up quickly if you are applying to many programs.
Fee Waivers#
Many programs offer fee waivers for applicants who demonstrate financial need. Check the program's website or contact the admissions office to ask about fee waiver policies. Some programs automatically waive fees for applicants from certain countries or economic backgrounds.
Do not let application fees stop you from applying. If you cannot afford the fee, always ask for a waiver. The worst that can happen is they say no.
Putting It All Together#
Start preparing your application materials several months before deadlines. Your statement of purpose and letters of recommendation take the most time, so begin with those. Create a spreadsheet to track each program's requirements and deadlines so nothing falls through the cracks.
Related Videos#
Chapter Quiz
Answer all questions correctly to unlock the next chapter.
1. How many letters of recommendation do most Master's programs require?
2. What is the statement of purpose?
3. What TOEFL score do competitive programs typically expect?