Jainab Tabassum Banu

This is the admission season for another Fall intake. Across Bangladesh and other non-American countries, students are busy preparing their graduate applications to catch and fulfil their dreams. Many aspire to study abroad but are unsure where to begin. With careful planning and the right strategy, the graduate application process can become a structured and empowering experience rather than an overwhelming one. As a graduate student pursuing my PhD in the United States and as a teacher, I would love to offer some insights to help prospective students and dreamcatchers find a clear roadmap to studying in the US.

First, prospective students must recognise that Bangladeshi students in the US are making meaningful contributions to knowledge and skill development. Their resilience, perseverance, and brilliance are noticed, validated, and appreciated. In fact, Bangladesh is currently the 13th largest sending country of international students to the United States, and the enrolment rate continues to rise. This shows how well our students perform in this land of dreams and opportunities. This also shows that Bangladeshi students have the academic potential to thrive and shine in a fast-moving, innovative learning environment. When students come prepared and informed, they perform better and achieve greater success. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare not only your application materials but also your mindset and readiness for higher studies in the US. before you embark on this journey.

To begin with, the graduate admission process in the US is quite rigorous. Most universities require a similar set of materials, such as a Statement of Purpose (SOP), an academic writing sample (usually a research-based article), language proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo), official transcripts from your most recent degrees, and letters of recommendation from professors who have taught you directly. Universities generally provide writing guidelines or prompts on their websites, so it is strongly advised to read the instructions carefully, as well as the department’s “About” statements, before applying. There is no “one-application-fits-all” approach in graduate admissions. Each application must be tailored to the specific university and programme; otherwise, it risks sounding generic, much like AI!

Let me explain some of the major components of your application materials.

Crafting a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)

The Statement of Purpose (SOP) is the heart of your graduate application. It is often considered the most important part because of both its content and relevance. The SOP gives you the opportunity to tell your story, highlight your achievements, and demonstrate your fit for the programme. While it might sound similar to a cover letter for a job application, it is slightly different. Think of it as a bridge connecting your past experiences with your future aspirations, but written in the present. It explains why you want to study this subject, what you have accomplished so far, and what you hope to achieve with your degree. In other words, this document captures your past, present, and future, and so should be both strong and authentic.

However, “strong” does not mean lengthy. Most universities specify the required length on their websites. Generally, SOPs range from 500 to 1,000 words, though there are exceptions. For instance, Northwestern University requires two statements: an Academic Statement, ranging from 500 to 1000 words and a Personal Statement, ranging from 150 to 250 words, with the website clearly stating, “Please note: The Personal Statement should not duplicate the Academic Statement.” This is why it is crucial to carefully read each programme’s instructions to understand exactly what is expected.

Since many students are curious about the format of SOPs, let me share some important points that you need to keep in mind while drafting your SOP. First, you are not writing a cutthroat statement; rather, you are weaving a compelling and persuasive story that reads like a narrative. Begin with your academic journey, highlight key achievements, and explain how your experiences and achievements led you to your current research interests. End with your future goals and how this programme will help you achieve them.

Tailor your SOP to each programme after analysing their programme requirements and faculty pool. This shows that you have researched the department, faculty, and campus resources. Mention specific professors or courses that align with your interests. They will know that you are both prepared and genuinely interested. Remember, the graduate admission committee receives a huge number of applications. You might not oversell yourself or overpromise about your credibility, but share what makes you stand out. Elucidate how your experiences, backgrounds and perspectives as a Bangladeshi student can add value to the diversity of their learning environment.

In terms of language, avoid generic statements such as “I love literature” or “I am interested in your programme because it is prestigious.” Even AI tools like ChatGPT can generate vague and generic statements like these. Instead, provide clear examples of your academic work, research experience, or coursework that highlight your skills and preparedness not only to learn from the programme but also to contribute to what the department has already built. Graduate admissions committees are looking for students who are capable, curious, and motivated. For your own preparation, you might want to read sample SOPs available online or provided by your professors or mentors.

After drafting your SOP, take time to revise, edit, and proofread carefully. Revision focuses on content and structure, editing improves sentence-level clarity, and proofreading catches grammatical errors. In today’s age of AI, while many students use these tools to polish or even draft their work, your own voice is what graduate committees value. Be confident in your voice and let it shine through your statement. After all, it is called a personal statement for a reason. So, approach your SOP thoughtfully, responsibly, and authentically. A well-crafted SOP can transform your application from ordinary to compelling and enhance your chances of admission to your dream university.

Preparing Your Research Paper or Academic Writing Sample

Most graduate programmes in the US require an academic writing sample, such as a research paper (in the humanities) or a substantial project report to evaluate your ability to think critically, analyse information, and communicate ideas clearly in an academic tone and style. While SOP provides the graduate committees with the idea of your narrative voice, this academic artefact demonstrates your ability to write for a disciplinary audience. It is an opportunity to highlight what you know about your topic and how you approach it, synthesise scholarship, construct your arguments, and contribute your thoughts to the discipline.

Many students wonder what type of research paper to submit and whether it must already be published or under review. The good news is that the writing sample does not need to be a published work. The committees know that publication takes time and is a rigorous process. What matters is that your work is publishable in quality. So, choose a piece that showcases your substantial research skills and intellectual rigour. When selecting your writing sample, always choose your strongest work if you have more than one. Ideally, it should connect to the field you are applying to since admissions committees look for alignment between your interests and their program’s focus and support system. If you do not have a directly relevant piece, your most polished work is still a great choice.

For unpublished research papers, polish them carefully. Get them reviewed by your peers and professors if possible. Make sure your writing has clarity, coherence, and proper academic formatting. Just like SOP, revise it for content and structure, edit for sentence-level clarity, and proofread for grammar or typographical errors. Authenticity is key. Your paper should reflect your unique perspective, insights, and thought process, not generic content or work overly dependent on AI.

It is important to note that US universities and professors are highly attuned to the difference between AI-generated and AI-assisted work. Misusing AI tools risks academic plagiarism, which can seriously jeopardise your chances. Use technology and AI tools wisely, but let your own scholarly voice carry your potential. Remember, the academic writing sample is a chance for you to stand out as an academic. A strong, well-chosen paper demonstrates your readiness for graduate-level scholarship. Research takes time. The earlier you begin, the more time you will have to write, revise, polish, and strengthen your work.

Meeting the Language Proficiency Requirement

As international students, to study in an English-speaking country like the US, we must meet the language proficiency test requirements. Though my undergraduate and graduate degrees in Bangladesh were in English fields, I still had to take a language proficiency test. Your discipline does not matter. If you are from a non-English-speaking country, you must take a recognised test. Language proficiency score is a key part of graduate admissions, as US universities want to ensure that you can fully engage with academic coursework, participate in discussions, and contribute your insights in an English-speaking environment. For those seeking teaching or research assistantships, the minimum score requirement is non-negotiable.

Most programmes accept standardised tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo, but many universities do not accept Duolingo. So, check each institution’s policy carefully. There is a misconception that IELTS and TOEFL carry more weight than Duolingo because of the lengthier testing process. But in reality, as long as the university accepts the test, all are equally valid. Different universities and departments have different minimum score requirements. For example, one programme might require an overall IELTS band of 7.0 with no sub-score below 6.5, while another may accept 6.5 overall. Always check the programme’s website carefully to avoid last-minute preparation.

Before you take the test, prepare thoroughly. The test assesses your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Preparing early, even a year before your application, gives you enough time to practise, familiarise yourself with test formats, and take practice tests if necessary. Many coaching and tutoring centres offer IELTS preparation, but you can also prepare at home, as I did. Read academic articles, newspapers, READ THE DAILY SUN, and engage with English content daily. There is a plethora of reading, writing, and listening practice materials available online. So, make the best use of your broadband or Wi-Fi connection to develop and master this language skill. Speaking, in particular, is a productive skill that requires consistent practice. Speak in English daily with everyone. If you find none, speak in front of your mirror. And validate yourself!

Once you are fully prepared, take the test, earn your score, and stop comparing yourself to friends or relatives. Remember, your academic ability and potential are not defined by a language proficiency test score. However, it gives you the green light and confidence to thrive in an English-speaking academic and cultural environment. It also strengthens your communication skills, which will shape your success in graduate school and beyond.

Securing Strong Letters of Recommendation

You might not realise, but Letters of Recommendation (LORs) are a crucial part of your graduate application. They offer the admissions committee an external perspective on your academic abilities, work ethic, collaborative skills and potential for advanced study. While your SOP and academic writing sample speak in your own voice, your recommenders speak about you. So, their credibility and insight can significantly strengthen your application.

Generally, a graduate admission application requires three letters of recommendation: two from professors who have taught you directly and one from another professor or a coworker. So, choose your recommenders wisely. Select professors or supervisors who have taught you directly or supervised your academic work, know you as a student and as a person, and can speak well about your ability and potential. Sometimes, students only chase professors with big titles and designations. Titles matter, but how your professors represent you to the graduate committee matters more than the titles they hold.

Sometimes, students are in too much haste and do not give professors enough time to write a solid and strong letter. Remember, strong recommendation letters take time. It is professional and polite to approach your recommenders at least a month before the deadline. Always provide them with your CV, draft SOP, and a short note reminding them of the work you did with them, such as specific courses, research papers, or achievements. You can also briefly explain your academic and professional aspirations and why you are applying to specific programmes. This gives your recommenders the context to tailor their letters to support your goals.

Our professors are amazing! They often write many letters each season and can be busy with their own work. So, before inserting their names and email addresses in the application portal, ALWAYS seek their permission. Be polite, organised, and thankful. These professional courtesies make a lasting impression and can ensure stronger recommendation letters from your mentors and professors.

My Final Thoughts and Well Wishes to the Dreamcatchers

The graduate application journey can feel daunting and overwhelming, but with thoughtful preparation, it becomes a structured and empowering process. Each part of the application plays a unique role in telling your academic story to your audience, who are there to support your academic growth. You just need to convince them that you belong to that university. 

As I mentioned before, Bangladeshi students have already proven their brilliance and resilience on global platforms. The next generation can carry this legacy even further. Start early, plan carefully, and succeed in every step of your way. Your dream university is looking for thoughtful, curious, and determined minds. You have those minds! You ARE those minds! With preparation and vision, there is no limit to how far you can go! So, go for it!

The writer is a PhD Candidate at North Dakota State University