Timetable

Choosing Universities

TOEFL

GRE

Statement of Purpose

Recommendations

Resume

Other Documents and Issues

Waiting for Decision

Making Choices

Before Departure

Upon Arrival

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Forum

Questions? Comments?
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Timetable: 12-month Countdown Until Enrollment

12-18 months before you wish to enroll
Consider you reasons for studying in the USA
Which PhD programs interest you?
Start working on your English, see TOEFL for suggestions

August-September
Write to schools for catalogs and application forms. See Sample Letter.
Continue preparing for TOEFL.
Start preparing for GRE General and Subject. You might want to order preparation books.

September - November
Register for standardized tests (TOEFL, GRE, etc.)
Take any required test before mid-December, better until the end of November and definitely before you submit your application.

November - December
Prepare and sign official transcripts from your current Institute/University.
Ask for letters of recommendation.
Write the statement of purpose.
Complete and mail applications.

January - April
Be sure you met all application deadlines, your applications have been received, are complete and being considered.
Correspond with the secretary, faculty members and current graduate students. Regularly check on the status of your application. See Waiting for Decision for ideas.

February - April (rarely May)
Receive letters of acceptance/rejection. Decide where to study.
Inform all schools about your decision.
Organize your finances, apply for housing and medical insurance.

Summer Months
Make travel plans.
Receive I-20 and apply for U.S. visa.
Contact your school's International Student Office with your arrival plans.
Attend pre-departure orientation at the American Center.