Handling Multiple Admits

Getting your first acceptance letter brings an unmatched sense of joy, whether it comes from your absolute dream institution or a fallback option you applied to. Academic institutions use various methods to communicate their acceptance decisions. While some may mail the I-20 document directly to your postal address, others will email you a congratulatory message detailing specific requirements you must meet to secure the I-20. For example, you might be asked to submit financial paperwork such as a university-specific form, a bank solvency letter, and an affidavit of support, along with official transcripts and occasionally a small, non-refundable deposit to lock in your spot. Additionally, certain institutions may impose strict deadlines for you to officially accept their offer.

As a general rule, it is wise to send in the requested paperwork or pay the small fee in order to request your I-20. Imagine you receive six acceptances out of the eight applications you submitted; how do you choose the finest option among them? If your ultimate dream school happens to be one of those six, your path forward is quite clear-cut. Otherwise, you will need to identify the next highest-ranking institution on your list of acceptances based on the following selection criteria:

1. The curriculum and program structure: ensure it aligns with your personal goals and academic interests. The available elective courses should support the specific specialization you wish to pursue.
2. Research initiatives and lab infrastructure: active research projects indicate that the department is well-funded. This gives you the chance to gain practical research exposure, test and improve your ability to apply theoretical concepts in real-world scenarios, and potentially secure a research assistant position.
3. Career placement and internship prospects: every institution publishes this data online for prospective students to review. You can request a directory of employers attending career fairs on campus as well as past employers who have recruited graduates from that specific school.
4. Financial investment: the total cost of completing your master's studies must remain manageable and affordable for you.
5. Geographical setting, climate, and distance from family or friends: these factors should carry the least weight in your decision-making process.

Once you have locked in your university choice, you can begin organizing the necessary financial paperwork and proceed with your visa application.

Suggested: Steps To Follow After Receiving I-20 Form.

Author:Karishma TijoriwalaCounselor at ISSC.