Helpful tips and practical advice to enhance your application process and increase your chances of success.

• Start Early:

  Track deadlines at least 2-3 months in advance. Early preparation boosts your chances.

• Ask Recommenders Early:

  Contact your recommenders in advance, ideally 1–2 months ahead. Provide clear details and reminders as needed. Last minute might not work as they are busy with work.

• Clarify Doubts Quickly:

  If application instructions or details are unclear, don’t hesitate to directly email the organizers or administrators for clarification.

• Leverage LinkedIn for Insights:

  Use LinkedIn to find alumni, current participants, or students connected to your desired programme. Reach out, introduce yourself politely, and ask relevant questions.

• Organize Your Emails:

  Create labels or folders in your email for each application to avoid missing critical updates. And check your emails regularly. If possible, have an email address dedicated to important emails and another email address for newsletters etc to avoid missing important updates.

• Customize Each Application:

  Tailor your CV and cover letter/personal statement specifically for each opportunity.

• Follow Up Professionally:

  Don’t hesitate to follow up politely if you don't hear back.

• Set Personal Deadlines:

  Set your internal deadlines at least a week before official deadlines to reduce stress.

• Backup Important Documents:

  Keep copies of important documents in multiple locations (Google Drive, Dropbox, local folder).

• Track Your Expenses:

  Monitoring application costs helps you budget effectively, especially if applying widely.

• Practice Interviews:

  Practice common questions, especially for fellowships, scholarships, or jobs, to boost confidence.

• Ask for Help:

  Seek feedback on your personal statements and CVs from friends, professors, or mentors.

• Stay Positive and Persistent:

  Not every opportunity will work out, and that's okay, stay focused and resilient!