5 Things You Should Ask A University
posted at Aug. 25, 2022, 5:01 p.m.
Here, we list the 5 most important queries that will help you extract information from the universities:
1. Application fee waiver 🔰
Most students apply to anywhere between 8 to 12 colleges in a single session. With each application costing $45-50 on average, the total amount can end up burning a gaping hole in some pockets. Keeping this in mind, most universities offer waivers based on different criteria.
✒️ Request
In your request, demonstrate your interest in the program ➕ build a case for the waiver based on the strength and relevance of your profile to the requirements of the program.
📄Possible replies
Waivers (and the criteria for them) differ from university to university. Moreover, the waiver application may either be a part of the same application process or might require you to get in touch with an entirely different committee. Sometimes you are offered the waiver straight if your profile is strong.
2. GRE waiver 🎯
GRE waiver has become commonplace since the pandemic started in 2020. Even so, many universities ask for the scores. In case you could not take them or have scored low and would like them to be skipped from consideration, you can ask the university for a waiver.
✒️ Request
In your request, clearly state why you are asking for the same ➕ what makes you stand out from all the other applicants? Mention what makes you a fit for the program & its expectations.
📄Possible replies
This will be a simple yes/no reply.
3. TOEFL/IELTS waiver 🔤
Although universities waive off English proficiency tests for students with English as the medium of instruction in UG, most universities still ask Indian students to submit their scores.
✒️ Request
Check the university website for eligibility for the waiver and tailor the request accordingly. Be sure to have a letter from your university stating your education was in english if it is not mentioned on the transcript.
📄Possible replies
Yes/No.
4. Financial Aid and Scholarships 💰
Although most universities put out clear and concise information about the aid and scholarships they offer, there’s no harm in availing details about the specific criteria and guidelines for the same. You can also write to universities after you have multiple acceptances and are making a decision. You can state that any potential aid might influence your decision of joining one school over the other.
✒️ Request
Do not meander. Keep it limited to the demonstration of financial need and academic achievements. This request can also be made later, in case your previous request was rejected, for reevaluation of your profile.
📄Possible replies
We see students receive aid a lot of times when they do this post admit. You could also see scholarship opportunities you aren’t aware of if you write to them before applying.
5. Statistics on employability after graduation 📊
It’s a no-brainer that RoI is the most crucial aspect of the degree you wish to pursue, especially for international students. If you can’t find the numbers, you can always send your queries to the concerned administration.
✒️ Request
Request for numbers tailored to International Candidates or the companies/ sector you are interested in
📄Possible replies
You might get critical data or a simple “All information we have is available on the website”
While some of the above information can be found on the websites, always write and ask for information that is unclear. It can save you a lot of time, money, or both. At the very least, this exercise can act as a safety net in ensuring you have well-rounded and updated information.
Note: All of the above can be sent to universities in email format.
Still unconvinced?
You can always reach out to us at (https://bit.ly/free_profileevaluation) for any further questions. Remember to choose your sources of information wisely. At Gradvine, you can speak to master's students and graduates from the finest global universities to help you with your application queries.
