International students need to apply for a student visa along with a list of documents that are important for getting a student visa. Below is the list of common documents which are required for most of the universities at various global destinations.
Following is the list of common documents required for getting a student visa in some of the most preferred major study-abroad destinations.
The letter of Recommendation and Statement of Purpose are those documents that reflect the personality of the student. Both of the documents have significant importance since they highlight the student’s dreams, strengths, aspirations, and future career roadmap after pursuing education from that particular university/institution. In short, these documents are like a reflection of the student’s outlook and personality.
As a result, drafting a compelling SOP and well-curated LOR is extremely vital in creating a good and positive impression about oneself. It is important to take time and put down points that you would like to include in the SOP/LORSs.
A Statement of Purpose (SOP) is your opportunity to present yourself beyond your academic records and test scores. It is a reflection of your motivations, achievements, and aspirations. Follow these steps to craft a strong SOP:
The SOP should answer the basic point “ Your main reason for applying for this course is ?” SOP reflects the link between your personal life, educational background, and future aspirations. It is a documented narration of your reasoning in a professional manner. So, essentially the SOP is that document that helps the reader/admin team to understand your core reason for applying to that particular program.
The introduction paragraph of the SOP must strike a chord with the reader. It should be interesting in terms of its narration keeping authenticity in mind. You can start with something that resonates with your reasoning behind selecting a particular program. It could be a personal experience or something that has motivated you to study a particular subject. Tie up the introduction with the background and your future goals.
Ensure that your background throws proper light on your educational journey, internships, and projects undertaken along with co-curricular activities and job experience if any. This part of the SOP along with academics highlights your progress and realising your future pathway. You must highlight how the program selected is in line with your academics and work experience if any. Ensure that you mention your achievements humbly.
Make it clear why you’re applying to that specific program. Mention the faculty members you admire, particular courses you’re excited about, or specific research interests that align with your goals. Demonstrating that you’ve researched the program will show your genuine interest and preparedness.
Your SOP must speak about your career goals including both short and long term. Elaborate on how this course is the stepping stone for your future goals. Specify how this course will help you to work and will also ensure that you expose yourself to global careers. You could specifically mention that you would like to work in a multinational corporation or get into research and development etc. SOP essentially should showcase your vision for yourself in the future ahead.
The SOP needs to end in a way that reflects your self-belief and confidence in the program that you plan to enroll in. The end of the SOP should reflect your commitment and passion for the subject/ area selected. It is highly recommended that you also mention how by completing this course you will serve society at large.
Do not mention things that are general and do not put typical statements. SOP is all about your beliefs, dreams, and personality. Be honest about your expectations, experiences, and dreams, and ensure the same is reflected in your SOP with clarity and authenticity.
Once you have the order of your SOP in place and the draft is ready, go through the document thoroughly, and check the grammar, punctuation, spelling, etc. Read each line and ensure that the SOP is exactly what you aspire to do and is your expression. It is recommended to ask someone to review the SOP and make the changes if it resonates with you.
A Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is a letter that is given by someone external for whom you have worked, taught you, or has been your guide in any academic projects or mentor during any internships, etc. The letter of recommendation is essentially a written format of the external person’s impression of you.
You should select a recommender who knows you due to academics or in a professional manner. This recommender should be able to mention your working style, team playing capacity, leadership qualities, subject knowledge, etc. Make sure they mention your work is in line with your plans within the particular program.
The recommender should be told the purpose of the LOR. Make sure that your credibility and abilities are mentioned properly. Also make sure that along with your academic qualifications, your personality is highlighted well in terms of nature, and mental strength as well.
The letter should start with the association that you have with the recommender. It is important to mention how and in what capacity the recommender knows you and for how long. It can be a teacher, a professor, or a mentor from the office.
The main part of the letter should focus on your strengths and achievements which should be specific. Be sure to avoid general and common statements which do not reflect your real personality. Personal qualities should be highlighted along with academic and work-based references. The LOR should be personalized to your personality and not be in general.
To ensure that the letter ends with a strong recommendation. It should highlight the recommender’s confidence in your abilities and academic progress which are aligned to your future goals. The letter should end on a comfortable and assertive note which is believable as well.
The letter should be formal yet personalized. Do not mention extremely personal experiences or language. Ensure that the letter is genuine and has the perfect human touch. Personal and professional touch should complement each other in the letter exuding recommenders’ belief in your capabilities.
It is important to understand that both the Statement of Purpose and the Letter of Recommendation are a reflection of your personality. Be authentic and genuine giving it a perfect personal and professional touch. Focus on clarity, purpose, and authenticity of the matter rather than making it a complete “ ONLY AND ONLY GOOD “ statement about yourself. Let these documents reveal your dreams and achievements.
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