How early should you start preparing for your school application? The answer is: It is never too early. You need to take the necessary standardized test, prepare your essays, select your recommenders, gather the required documents, and fill out the online application and these things can’t happen overnight! A new application cycle is around the corner💃🏾and this is the best time to begin your necessary preparations which will prove beneficial to you. Below are some benefits of starting your school application early:
- Choose the Right Schools
You need time to do in-depth research to help you choose schools that would be a good fit for you. You need to objectively evaluate your qualifications and competitiveness in reference to the requirements of the schools in order to apply effectively. If you have a competitive profile to apply to your dream school, by all means, go for it, but make sure you have a fallback plan you are happy with. Starting your school early gives you time to effectively select a list of schools where you are competitive – based on your profile, goals, and what you are looking for in your desired program.
- Developing Your Story
It is vital to have a distinct voice in your application – who are you? What are you looking for and why? How will your chosen program get you there? The most attractive candidates properly articulate their history, present, and future experiences that are relevant to their application. They aren’t reluctant to convey who they are in their essays. Starting your application early gives enough time to reflect and properly articulate your experience.
- Be more Informed about Scholarship Opportunities
Application and scholarship deadlines are critical, yet they do not always happen at the same time. Scholarship applications sometimes have earlier deadline than school applications. Also, the earlier you begin your application, the more probable it is that you will receive a substantial scholarship because a lot of the time, it is always first come first serve. So, people who apply early are more likely to get the most money. You would also be informed of all of the scholarship options open to you.
- More Time to do in-depth Research
Use the additional time you have since you applied early to explore and research the schools from various perspectives (academics, student life, location, etc.). Explore internship and research possibilities, and participate in online webinars to learn about specific programs. It’s essential to understand the tools available to help you succeed on campus. Don’t make your selection just based on whether the school is close to your favorite uncle or favorite movie star’s house😏.
- Start Building Relationships and Connections
It is important to establish a relationship with your admissions counselor. Admission counselors can assist you by providing information on unique programs, connecting you with professors or current students, addressing any questions or concerns you may have, and assisting you with the next stages in the process. Starting your school application early gives you time to do this.
The earlier you apply to schools, the more time you will have to decide where you want to attend. There are many excellent schools to select from, so allow yourself plenty of time to locate the perfect match. As a result, when you make your final selection, you will be completely sure about it!
Also, when you apply early you’ll be able to plan for unforeseeable situations. For example, If your recommender ghosts you, you’ll have enough time to change that recommender before the application deadline.
While it may be tempting to apply to your top-choice school early in order to get it out of the way and get a decision as soon as possible, it’s essential to understand how your application strategy can affect your chances of admission. Applying early can benefit applicants who are prepared and can harm those who are not. So seek expert help to assist you in working on your school application strategy. Reach out to us today, let’s assist you in your application to schools abroad.