Shortlisting Universities for MS in the USA is a critical initial step in the study abroad application process.
To find or select the university that’s right can be daunting, but Nomad Credit is here to make it easier than ever. Our dedicated team of expert counsellors is here to guide you through the university shortlisting process.
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Embarking on the journey of higher studies abroad, especially in the USA, can be complex when selecting the right university. This guide aims to assist you in shortlisting universities for your Master of Science (MS) or any other program.
The process of shortlisting a foreign university depends on several crucial factors:
Among these factors, your choice of course is paramount, as it plays a pivotal role in shaping your future. Engage with your seniors who have previously pursued similar courses abroad during the fall intake to gain valuable insights and feedback.
Once you have narrowed your course options to one or two, begin with a university search that aligns with your academic and career aspirations.
There is no definitive rule book for determining the ideal number of universities to apply to or gauging the ease of acceptance. However, as a general guideline, students often apply to 8-10 universities, distributing them as follows:
These guidelines help you balance your applications to ensure a mix of aspirations and probabilities when applying to foreign universities.
When to apply is a common dilemma for students. Ideally, the application process should commence in the first week of November for those aiming for the Fall intake. For Spring intake, the process should start around September. Typically, engineering students opt for this timeline since they have university exams a month later, adding to the stress. Therefore, it’s advisable to have all the necessary application documents prepared by the beginning of November for the Fall intake or September for the Spring intake.
Once you’ve finalized your list of universities, the next step is to begin filling out the online application forms. For many universities, the application deadlines for the Fall intake typically fall in mid-December.
It’s crucial to verify these deadlines with the specific university, as some may extend into January or March, and others might employ a rolling admission process. On the other hand, spring intake deadlines tend to range from September to November.
See Your OptionsAt Nomad Credit, we understand that your educational journey is unique and work as a university finder for you.
Our experienced counselors provide personalized guidance tailored to your individual needs and aspirations. Here’s how we can help you shortlist the universities that are the perfect fit for you:
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Get StartedTo shortlist universities for an MS in Canada:
Admission to MS programs in the USA can be competitive, typically necessitating a minimum GPA of approximately 3.4 on a 4.0 scale or higher. However, some US universities might accept slightly lower GPAs. International students should generally aim for a GPA ranging from 3.2 to 3.4 to be eligible for MS programs in US universities, although requirements can vary by course and institution. It’s advisable to check specific program and university requirements for precise GPA expectations.
Not always. Some reputable universities review applications after their deadlines. However, this doesn’t imply you should procrastinate your admission process.
First, define your field of study and academic interests. Next, assess your budget and explore available scholarships or financial aid. Consider your preferred location, as the USA offers diverse settings and climates. Research program quality, faculty expertise, and university rankings to ensure a strong academic fit. Review admission criteria, including standardised test requirements and language proficiency. Connect with alumni or current students for insights into the university culture and opportunities. Apply to a mix of ambitious, moderate, and safe universities to maximized your chances of acceptance and a successful academic journey.