Universities in the US look at both Academics as well as non-academic components which can include sports, research, arts, community service, employment, etc. While academics certainly come first, universities in the US look at the overall picture and want students who are excelling in different domains. 

First, I’ll talk about the importance of Academics.

Importance of Academics

For a masters degree, academics are very important. These include:

• Undergraduate GPA. Most programs require at least a 3.0 GPA but a 3.5 or above GPA is considered the most ideal. The equivalent of a 3.0 GPA is 7.0 on a 10 point scale. So, it’s important that you have at least a 7.0 CGPA. 
• Your GRE or GMAT scores. Business-related programs require a GMAT score for their applications. While all other types of programs require a GRE score. You can choose what test to take depending upon the program you are applying to. 
• Your GRE subject test scores. Most master’s degrees do not require a GRE subject test score but some do. GRE subject tests are available in six subject areas which are: Biology, Chemistry, Literature, Mathematics, Physics and Psychology. 
• Your English Proficiency tests scores which can include either TOEFL or IELTS

Academics are really important! So make sure you study hard. But that’s not it. Academics are just one component of your application. Now, let’s talk about the other important components.

Other Important Components

Other components of your application that have equal importance are: 

• Your CV and work experience  (This can include any part-time or full-time jobs, freelance work, as well as internships. Consider this to be an extremely important component of your application.) 
• Your Personal essay or Statement of Purpose 
• Your extracurricular activities, which can include any volunteer or community service experience 
• Your research experience, and
• Your letters of recommendation 

We know that’s a lot of stuff to remember, so let’s look at an example for a clearer understanding: 

Let’s say you are applying to MIT for a master’s in mechanical engineering degree, you will need an excellent CGPA, at least a 310 on the GRE,  and at least a 100 on the TOEFL or a 7.0 on the IELTS. You will also require interesting research or work experience that adds value to your application. Apart from this, you would need a good story to tell! The admissions committee really looks at why a student is interested in doing a graduate degree and why is keen on joining their particular program! Basically, they look at applications from a holistic point of view. 

Sign up at UniRely to get guidance from university-specific mentors and counselors on your application process to universities in the US. To get more information about how to apply to universities abroad for your master’s degree, please visit our website – www.unirely.com.