Introduction

Welcome, future GRE and TOEFL exam takers! If you're gearing up for these crucial exams, you're in for an exciting journey. One valuable opportunity you might not want to miss is the chance to send your scores to four universities for free. Given the usual cost associated with score submissions, this is an incredible perk. In this blog post, we'll delve into the essential process of shortlisting universities and understanding your chances of selection. So, if you're curious and ready to plan strategically, keep reading!

The Selection Process

• Categorize universities into three classes: ambitious, moderate, and safe.
• Determine the classification of each university based on your chances of selection.

Step 1: Initial Shortlisting of Universities

Finding Similar Profiles

• Engage with college seniors, friends, and family for insights.
• Explore online communities (Facebook, WhatsApp) for active discussions.
• Seek profiles similar to yours for guidance on suitable universities and programs.

Utilizing Apps and Websites

• Use platforms like Yocket to recommend universities based on your profile.
• Explore online communities to search for specific universities and courses.
• Analyze previous year's accepts and profiles to make informed decisions.

University Rankings

• Understand global or national rankings using websites like US News.
• Identify top-tier institutions and programs in the overall ranking, as well as specific to the field of study and specializations.

Step 2: Detailed Analysis for your field of study

Once you've shortlisted a few universities based on data and statistics. Now, it's time to dive into some extensive research. Why is this necessary? University rankings don't provide a complete picture of what a university has to offer. For instance, if you're interested in natural language processing, you shouldn't choose a university solely based on its ranking. Instead, consider factors like ongoing quality research, professor-student involvement, and more.

Considerations for Decision-Making

1. Research Environment: Explore the departmental website to find details about research labs, ongoing projects, and the professors leading them.

2. Professor Profiles: Visit the personal webpages or university profiles of professors to understand their research interests, publications, and projects.

3. Research Collaborations: Investigate if the university engages in research collaborations with other institutions or companies, as this can enhance your academic and professional experience.

4. Graduate Student Projects: Check out projects undertaken by Ph.D. students, as Master's students often collaborate on these projects. This can give you insights into potential projects during your studies.

For Job Opportunities

1. Location of the University: Consider the city or area where the university is located, as this can impact job opportunities and your overall experience.

2. Placement Statistics: Explore the placement scenario by checking statistics on which companies visit the campus for hiring.

3. Cost of Living: Investigate the cost of living in the area and the university fees to make an informed financial decision.

4. Student Clubs: Look into various student clubs on campus, as they contribute to a well-rounded graduate experience.

The Two-Way Process

Remember, the university selection process is a two-way street. While you're being evaluated, you're also choosing the university that aligns with your goals. Invest time in thorough research because, as a graduate student, you're committing significant time and resources.

I've also prepared a few videos on this topic as well, feel free to check them out: