4 Essential Tips to Create a Compelling University Application
WHY DO STUDENTS INVEST TIME AND EFFORT INTO CREATING A STELLAR UNIVERSITY APPLICATION?
Right from picking an eminent university to an alluring program, choices you make can have a telling impact on your future. With so much at stake, applying for an undergrad program must seem daunting. However, it doesn’t have to be! This is especially true with new-age universities, where admission committees value holistic assessments over a unidimensional approach.
Here are some expert tips to make your university application process a little less stressful. Let’s begin with some common questions.
What program to choose?
How will the program help you achieve your goals in life?
Though these questions are more than relevant, there is one question that you should ask yourself before filling out an application…
What do new-age universities look for when evaluating an application?
The answer to this question will enable you to create a compelling university application. The admission criteria at new-age universities have evolved over time to welcome students with versatile talents and skills. This modern approach enables universities to knit together a diverse student community, which inherently nurtures holistic leaders on campus. Out in the real-world, a combination of cultivated skills and leadership qualities will hold you in good stead for the future.
With this in mind, let’s get straight into creating
a riveting and impactful university application!
Academic Achievements:
It does seem a bit common place to talk about academics, especially when it refers to pre-university grades. Most universities set a minimum score to apply for admission. However, the difference in curriculum, pedagogy and evaluation methods followed by various pre-university academic boards creates a distorted assessment of the applicant’s academic prowess.
Therefore, standardized tests were designed to mitigate this issue. Tens of thousands of students take a common test and achieve ranks based on the percentile of the group. Today, there are multiple standardized tests that are accepted by universities. Examples of such tests include SAT, JEE and CET.
However, there are a number of new-age universities that look beyond academics to accept applicants with diverse skills and talents. Studies have shown that such universities nurture well-rounded leaders, who are absorbed into top organizations in the corporate world.
Statement of Purpose:
Pre-university transcripts and scores from standardized tests are common to all students. Though grades may differ, the knowledge imbibed is common to all.
So, how would you differentiate yourself from the pack?
The statement of purpose presents an opportunity to reflect on and analyze your strengths and areas of interest. In essence, it provides a platform to showcase your unique talents and abilities. Most new-age universities look for individuals who excel in more than just academics.
The statement of purpose maps out your journey from past experiences to future aspirations. Take time to understand your calling in life and recollect the incidents that brought you to this realization. Thereafter, you may want to explore programs at different universities to know your best fit. New-age universities appreciate the effort invested into picking the right university. So, make sure to include it in your statement of purpose. Universities are also interested in your plans for the future. Dream big and let your essay present it proudly!
Remember, your statement of purpose can enhance your university application considerably. Think of it as your introduction for a college interview and put your best foot forward!
Experiential Learning:
There is a vast chasm between theoretical knowledge and hands-on learning. New-age universities constantly strive to bridge this gap by providing holistic learning experiences. Therefore, they appreciate efforts of students who actively participate in academic workshops, seminars and webinars.
If you have been a part of such learning experiences, ensure to highlight it in your university application. Summer and winter immersion programs (link to our programs) are much sought after by students who wish to experience learning at new-age universities. It is also a common practice to participate in certificate workshops and webinars (links) conducted by reputed institutions. Though these are more commonly featured on college applications, there are a few unorthodox approaches to showcase your aptitude.
For instance, if you have your eyes set on a management program, you may want to assist in conducting cultural events at school. If a design program is your calling, you may want to create an Instagram page to showcase your work. New-age universities love proactive applicants. Engage in activities that go beyond academics and create stories that are worth presenting in your university application.
Extracurricular Activities:
The best part of pre-university life is the opportunity to spread your wings and explore different avenues. Maybe you dedicated your time to sports, arts, social causes or cultural activities. This is your chance to highlight them! While doing so, you may want to clarify your commitment to the cause. An applicant with a membership at a club will take a back seat to another who has dedicated time and effort into achieving success as an artist or sportsman. Same goes with applicants who have addressed social causes through hands-on activities.
New-age universities are looking for such individuals to create a diverse student community on campus. So, show them the real YOU outside the classroom!
To wrap things up, new-age universities pick individuals for their uniqueness. Make sure your statement of purpose presents the best version of YOU!
We wish you the very best in your pursuit of new-age learning!
