The application portals for the 2023 admission cycle are going to open soon (August or September) for MS in USA. You need to follow the timeline so that you do not lose track of multiple things that need to be completed. Applying late or very close to deadlines can be detrimental to success; especially if you are looking for a fully-funded MS in USA. Let’s check out the Fall 2023 deadlines for MS in USA along with GRE requirements, and application tips.
Fall 2023 Deadlines for MS in USA for Top 65 Universities
[table id=123 /]
Need Help with MS Applications?
Sign up for a 30/60-minute Counselling Session with Tanmoy Ray
MS Application Timeline and Tips
MS in USA application process can be overwhelming and cumbersome. Here is a timeline for reference –
Recommended Post: Universities that Do Not Require GRE for Fall 2023 (for MS Computer Science, Data Science, Busines Analytics, and Biotech/Biomedical)
July – August 2021
- Spend quality time researching the schools and programs. Make a broad list of target universities (10 – 20)
- By now, you should have booked the dates for the standardized tests – GRE/GMAT and IELTS/TOEFL
- Try to appear for GRE/GMAT by August. That would ensure you have ample time to retake the exam if required.
- By all means, you must clear all the exams by the end of September or early October. It will make the whole process smooth. Another advantage of doing so is that if you fail to score the desired score, you can attempt a retake in November.
- If you are eyeing an integrated MS at a top 10/20 US university, you should reach out to the Professors before submitting an application.
- It’s also wise to touch base with your referees (recommenders) in August.
September – October 2021
- Finalize the university list where you wil be applying (ideally, 5 – 8)
- Apply for WES, in case of your shortlisted schools require a WES evaluation
- Check for scholarships and financial aid options
- Start working on your SoP (the generic one). Writing an effective SoP or Personal Statement takes time. It demands multiple rounds of brainstorming, reiteration, proofreading, and editing. On average (as per my experience in the last 3 – 4 years), the final draft for the Generic SoP takes 3 – 5 weeks.
- Get in touch with your potential referees (recommenders). Let them know that you will need either soft copies of LoR or they might need to email the universities directly in November, December, or January. It’s not at all a good practice to ask your College Professors or Manager (or Supervisor / Team Leader) for LoR just one or two weeks before the deadline.
Need Help with MS Applications?
Sign up for a 30/60-minute Counselling Session with Tanmoy Ray
November – December 2021
- Once you are done with the tests (GRE/GMAT & TOEFL/IELTS) and have the scores, it’s time to prepare the final list of colleges/universities. Once you have the final list, prepare the application kit for individual universities.
- As mentioned previously, always try to submit the applications at least 2 – 4 weeks before the deadlines. Anything can happen at the last moment – maybe the application portal is down, your referee could be out of the station, or you might come across an unavoidable circumstance. So, be an early bird.
- Apply to the most selective (or ambitious) universities by mid-November (or early December). You can apply to a few safe schools in January (or early February).
Related Posts
MS Admissions Counselling – How to Choose between Bite-Size and End-to-End Guidance
How to Get into Ivy League Universities for MS from India
Guidance on Writing SoP for Ivy League and Top US Universities with GRE 320 – 340 Scores