1. Meticulous Planning
Most students start their study abroad preparation 3-4 months before the deadline. However, top applicants use a ‘reverse preparation hack,’ and start their preparation almost a year in advance.
They carefully shortlist universities, prepare for tests like GRE and TOEFL, craft strong admission essays, and submit applications well before deadlines.
This strategic planning allows them to submit polished applications, unlike others who rush last minute.
Learn about the ideal timeline for getting into top universities abroad in the video below.
2. Extensive Research
Top applicants spend weeks shortlisting universities by exploring countries, research opportunities, curricula, and job prospects.
They also attend university fairs, webinars, and connect with alumni and admission officers.
This thorough research and networking help them gain valuable insights and submit strong applications.
To learn in detail about this check out our previous blog – How to choose universities for study abroad?
3. Excellent Professional Track Record
Top applicants may claim their profiles are similar to yours, but they often secretly invest time in building a strong profile.
They excel in tests like the GRE and TOEFL, engage in multiple research projects, internships, and extracurriculars, creating a well-rounded profile.
These efforts set them apart and enhance their chances of getting into top universities abroad.
4. Emailing Professors
While emailing professors isn’t mandatory or part of the official application process, top applicants for research-based master’s or PhD programs often reach out to professors in advance.
If a professor is interested in a student’s profile and wants them in their research group, admission becomes easier.
However, emailing professors requires effort—each email must be customized, and responses are rare. Most students skip this step, but it’s a key strategy that sets top applicants apart.
5. Write good quality admission essays
While many students rely on counselors or SOP writers, what sets top applicants apart is their commitment to writing their own documents.
They take the time to learn how to craft strong SOPs and LORs, then invest in writing quality essays and having them professionally reviewed before submission.
The students who join our Study Abroad Course, SOP Review Program and LOR Review Program are typically those aiming for top universities.
To learn how to write the perfect SOP, check out our video below:
