Application Packet Preparation :

Once you are through with the university selection and online applications you need to start preparing the application packets to be sent to the universities to complete your application. The requirements of different universities are different. Some expect you to send two packets, one to the Graduate Admissions Office and one to the Department while others make it convenient and cheaper for you by asking you to send just one packet, either to the Admissions Office or the Department. Also the contents of the packet vary. Some would want you to send a financial statement, or a separate departmental application  or a merit based award form. Preparing packets becomes rather confusing if you are applying to too many colleges. Go through the university and department websites thoroughly to find out about any of their requirements before starting the packet preparation.

Here is a list of what your application packet should contain :

1. Application Fees or Receipt of online fee payment.

2. Recommendation Letters if not mailed separately to the universities by your recommenders.

3. Statement of  Purpose : Always better to put in a copy even if you have submitted your SOP online.

4. Resume : Maximum 2 pages.

5. College Transcripts.

6. Photocopy of GRE and TOEFL score reports.

7. Certification of finances form and bank statement. (If reqd. by university)

8. Merit Based Award Form. (If the university has one)

9. Departmental Application (If the department has one)

10. Cover Letter stating your application number or ID, the lists of items sent and any other information you feel essential.