GRAD ECHO

In general, Masters funding is very limited and in my experience, it is generally even lower outside CS and Engineering fields. However, scholarships can still work out, such as Erasmus Mundas in Europe, Commonwealth Scholarship in the UK and the Fulbright Scholarship for US. I don’t recall recent examples of students taking that path but will let you know if I find someone.

The key components of a graduate school application for MS/PhD programs include Transcripts, Letters of Recommendation (usually 3), Statement of Purpose, Resume/CV, and Test Scores. Universities in some countries (e.g., Australia, UK) also require developing a research proposal when applying for PhD programs.

As a professor who has served on graduate admissions committees, I've seen firsthand how these components are used to evaluate applicants. As we examine each application component in this post, I invite you to imagine yourself as an admission committee member tasked with identifying the most promising candidates from a large applicant pool. The challenge is not just to select candidates who meet the criteria, but also to predict who will thrive in the program. This task requires a careful analysis of the components of graduate applications.

Each element provides a crucial piece of the puzzle, collectively forming a comprehensive picture of the applicant. Committees approach this evaluation holistically, considering how these components interact rather than fixating on any single factor. For instance, a stellar GPA might be offset by weak letters of recommendation, or exceptional research experience could outweigh mediocre test scores.

Now, let's dive into each component, examining its importance, limitations, and how it contributes to the decision-making process:

1. Transcripts

• Importance: Transcripts provide a comprehensive view of an applicant's academic history, including course selection, grades, and overall GPA.
• How they're used: Admissions committees analyze not just the overall GPA, but the trajectory of grades, difficulty of coursework, and performance in subjects crucial to the program. A rising trend in grades can sometimes outweigh a lower overall GPA. They also consider the reputation and rigor of the applicant's institution.
• Limitations: Transcripts don't reveal the full story. They don't show circumstances that might have affected performance (e.g., personal hardships). The predictive power of a GPA can also vary significantly depending on the undergraduate institution's grading policies and the rigor of the coursework.

2. Letters of Recommendation

• Importance: These letters offer insights into an applicant's abilities, work ethic, and potential from those who have worked closely with them.
• How they're used: Admissions committees look for specific examples of the applicant's strengths, research capabilities, and how they compare to other students. Strong letters can significantly boost an application.
• Limitations: Not all recommenders write equally compelling letters. Some may be overly positive without providing substantive information.

3. Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement

• Importance: This is the applicant's chance to directly communicate their goals, research interests, and fit for the program.
• How they're used: Admissions committees assess the clarity of thought, writing ability, and alignment between the applicant's interests and our program's strengths. It's also a chance to explain any weaknesses in the application.
• Limitations: Some applicants may have received extensive help in crafting their statements, potentially masking their thought process, depth of applicant’s experiences, or true writing abilities.

4. Resume/CV

• Importance: This document provides a snapshot of the applicant's academic and professional experiences.
• How they're used: We look for relevant research experience, publications, presentations, and any unique skills or experiences that set the applicant apart.
• Limitations: Resumes can be padded or may not fully capture the depth of an applicant's experiences.

5. Test Scores (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS, GRE)

• Importance: While their significance is decreasing, test scores still aim to provide a standardized metric for comparing applicants from diverse educational backgrounds.
• How they're used: Scores are often used as an initial filter and to complement other parts of the application. High scores can compensate for weaker areas elsewhere.
• Limitations: These tests have been criticized for bias and may not accurately predict graduate school success. Many programs are moving away from requiring them.

6. Research Proposal

(Note: This is primarily needed for PhD applications in some countries/regions, e.g., UK, Australia and Europe but NOT in US/Canada in general)

• Importance: This demonstrates the applicant's ability to conceptualize and plan a research project.
• How they're used: Admissions committees assess the proposal's originality, feasibility, and alignment with faculty research interests. It's a key indicator of research potential.
• Limitations: Proposals may be overly ambitious or may change significantly once the student begins the program.

For undergraduate students aspiring to pursue graduate studies or simply expand their academic horizons, gaining research experience can be invaluable. However, the path to meaningful research involvement isn't always straightforward, especially for students at institutions without extensive research programs. In this article, I will outline effective strategies for undergraduates to acquire and make the most of research opportunities.

Start Early and Be Proactive
The journey into research should ideally begin early in your undergraduate studies. Summer before junior year is an excellent time to start looking for research projects. Don't wait for opportunities to come to you; actively seek them out within your department. This could involve joining a lab, assisting faculty with ongoing projects, or proposing an independent study project. Being proactive demonstrates your enthusiasm and commitment, qualities that faculty members highly value in potential research assistants.

Find a Mentor and Build Relationships
A key step in your research journey is finding a mentor. A faculty advisor can provide invaluable guidance, support, and opportunities for deeper involvement in research. When approaching potential mentors, show genuine interest in their work and come prepared with questions or ideas. As you work with your mentor, focus on building a strong professional relationship. This can lead to more responsibilities, better letters of recommendation, and potentially even co-authorship on publications depending on the extent of research contributions.

Develop Essential Skills and Take Ownership
To excel in research, focus on developing crucial skills related to research methods, statistical analysis, and scientific writing. Take relevant courses, attend workshops, and seek out online resources to enhance your skill set. Once involved in a project, demonstrate your commitment by taking ownership. This means showing genuine engagement, learning new concepts and tools relevant to the research, and proactively exploring new ideas and approaches. Over time, aim to take on more responsibility by suggesting new ideas, contributing to writing papers, presenting work, and even mentoring junior students.

Engage with the Broader Research Community
Research doesn't happen in isolation. Attend talks, seminars, workshops, and conferences to stay informed about current research trends and connect with other researchers. These events provide opportunities to learn about cutting-edge work in your field and network with peers and potential future collaborators or advisors. Engaging with the broader research community can also help you identify new areas of interest and potential future research directions.

Document Your Work and Seek Feedback
Keep detailed records of your research activities, methodologies, and findings. This documentation will be invaluable when writing your statement of purpose or research summaries for graduate school applications. It also helps you track your progress and identify areas for improvement. Regularly seek feedback from your mentor and peers on your work. This not only helps you improve but also demonstrates your commitment to growth and excellence in research.

Consider Gaining Research Experience Post Graduation
If you're attending a university without extensive research programs or haven't had the opportunity to gain research experience during your undergraduate studies, consider dedicating 1-2 years after graduation to working as a research assistant. This extended period allows for deeper engagement with research projects and can significantly strengthen your graduate school applications. Look for RA positions at research-intensive universities or reputable research institutions in your field of interest. This experience can provide you with the skills, research experience, and recommendations needed to compete effectively for reputable graduate programs.

In my view, by following these strategies, undergraduate students can gain valuable research experience that will serve them well going forward. Remember, the key is to be proactive, committed, and always eager to learn. Whether you're working in a well-equipped lab or creating opportunities from limited resources, your attitude, effort and work ethic will be the primary drivers of your success in research.

Thank you for sharing your goals. Embarking on a PhD journey without a research thesis from your MS program is certainly possible. Here are some steps to help you get started:

1. Gain Research Experience: Without a research thesis, it's important to gain research experience. Engage in research projects with faculty or researchers in your field. Seek out research assistant roles or internships aligned with your research interests.

2. Build a Strong Portfolio & Advance Your Knowledge: Utilize your skills in machine learning to work on real-world problems and create a portfolio of projects. This will demonstrate your expertise in the field. In addition, consider taking advanced courses in machine learning and healthcare informatics. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity offer specialized courses that can deepen your knowledge.

3. Network with Professionals: Try to attend conferences, workshops, and seminars related to your areas of interest. Networking with professionals in the field can open up opportunities for collaboration and mentorship.

4. Consider a Second Master's: If you feel you need a stronger foundation in research, you might consider enrolling in a second Master’s program with a focus on research. This can provide you with more structured research experience and strengthen your academic profile.

@researchAI

Thank you for sharing your experience with securing recommendation letters for graduate school applications. I'm sorry to hear you've faced challenges, but your determination is commendable.

Here are some suggestions to help you navigate this process more effectively:

1. Be strategic: Focus on professors who know you well and can speak to your abilities. Ask them to help with approaching other professors.

2. Follow up politely: If you don't receive a response or are asked to come back later, send a gentle reminder after a week or two. Respect their time, but be persistent with your follow-ups every 1-2 weeks.

3. Approaching Professors: When requesting a letter, prepare a brief "elevator pitch" about your graduate school goals and why their recommendation is valuable. Offer your CV, transcript, statement of purpose, and any relevant coursework or projects. This makes it easier for professors to write a substantive letter.

If a professor seems unwilling or unable to write a strong letter, it's better to seek other options. Good luck with your applications!

Applying to PhD programs requires careful preparation and a clear understanding of academic expectations. This post outlines the key challenges faced by doctoral applicants, offering insights to help prospective students navigate the competitive admissions process.

1. Lack of Research Experience:

• Not engaging in substantive research projects
• Lack of familiarity with research methodologies specific to their field
• Lack of understanding of the research publication process

2. Weak Statement of Purpose:

• Failing to articulate one’s motivations, achievements, and fit for the program.
• Failing to craft a compelling narrative that ties past experiences to future goals
• Not demonstrating a clear understanding of the field and current trends
• Overemphasizing personal history without linking to academic interests
• Failing to explain or contextualize weak areas in their academic record
• Not highlighting relevant advanced coursework or independent studies
• Not tailoring the statement to each specific program
• Poor writing quality, including grammar errors and lack of coherence

3. Poor Fit with Program:

• Not matching personal research interests with the program’s core focus areas and faculty strengths
• Overlooking key program attributes such as size, competitiveness, and funding opportunities
• Inadequate research on potential advisors’ research interests, mentorship style, funding status, and student success rates

4. Inadequate Recommender Preparation:

• Not securing strong, detailed letters of recommendation from people who are well acquainted with the applicant’s capabilities and research potential
• Choosing recommenders based solely on prestige rather than personal knowledge of the applicant’s work
• Failing to provide recommenders with enough information about your goals, achievements, and target programs
• Failing to provide recommenders with sufficient time to write thoughtful, in-depth letters

5. Misunderstanding the nature of PhD work:

• Lack of understanding about the essential components of PhD programs and their rigorous nature
• Not considering long-term career pathways both within and outside academia
• Unrealistic expectations about work-life balance during graduate school

6. Inadequate interview preparation (if called/invited):

• Inability to clearly discuss research interests and career objectives during interviews
• Insufficient preparation for in-depth discussions about their field

7. Neglecting to develop essential soft skills:

• Underestimating the importance of effective communication and presentation skills
• Not demonstrating resilience and ability to handle constructive criticism and setbacks

8. Overlooking the importance of interdisciplinary knowledge (if applicable):

• Failing to show how their research interests intersect with or draw from multiple disciplines
• Not highlighting diverse academic or professional experiences that bring unique perspectives to their research

Applying for a Master's program can be a daunting process, but avoiding these common mistakes can improve your chances of success.

1. Insufficient research on program fit

• Failing to understand the program's curriculum and areas of specializations
• Ignoring program competitiveness and acceptance rates
• Failing to research the program’s faculty, resources, and strengths
• Not considering the program's industry connections and job placement rates

2. Weak statement of purpose:

• Failing to articulate one’s motivations, achievements, and fit for the program.
• Failing to craft a compelling narrative that ties past experiences to future goals
• Overemphasizing personal background without linking to academic interests.
• Not tailoring the statement to each specific program
• Failing to address weak areas in their academic record
• Poor writing quality, including grammar errors and lack of coherence

3. Inadequate preparation for recommenders:

• Not securing strong, detailed letters of recommendation from people who from individuals who can attest to your qualifications and potential
• Choosing recommenders solely based on prestige rather than their personal knowledge of you
• Not providing recommenders with sufficient information about their goals and the program
• Not giving recommenders ample time to write letters

4. Underestimating the importance of academic performance and test scores:

• Not addressing weak areas in their academic record
• Insufficient preparation for GRE/GMAT (wherever required), particularly in areas relevant to the program
• Overlooking program-specific requirements or preferred score ranges

5. Overlooking relevant experience:

• Undervaluing internships, project work, or independent studies related to the field
• Neglecting to showcase interdisciplinary experiences that could set them apart (if applicable)
• Failing to highlight leadership roles and relevant co-curricular activities

6. Neglecting to build a professional network:

• Not attending graduate school fairs or information sessions
• Failing to connect with alumni or current students of target programs
• Underutilizing LinkedIn and other professional networking platforms

7. Poor time management in the application process:

• Starting the application process too late
• Underestimating the time needed for essay/SOP revisions and gathering materials
• Missing opportunities for early admission or funding deadlines (if applicable)

8. Inadequate financial planning:

• Not researching and applying for relevant scholarships and grants
• Failing to understand the full cost of attendance, including living expenses
• Not considering the return on investment for different programs

I don't have first-hand experience working with architecture students or their applications; however, choosing between pursuing a master's degree in architecture or gaining work experience after your undergraduate studies depends on your career goals and financial situation. A master's program offers advanced knowledge, specialized skills, and networking opportunities, which can enhance your career prospects and earning potential. However, it is costly and delays your entry into the workforce. On the other hand, working in an architecture firm provides practical experience, immediate income, and professional development, but might limit your long-term career advancement without further education.

To decide, assess your career objectives, financial situation, and readiness for continued education. If your goals require specialized knowledge or roles that typically demand a master's degree, further education might be the best path. Alternatively, gaining work experience can help clarify your interests and provide financial stability. I suggest consulting experts in the architecture field, seeking advice from mentors/teachers, and connecting with professionals to better inform your decision.

Several universities in Europe offer fully funded scholarships for Master's programs such as the University of Amsterdam (Amsterdam Merit Scholarship), ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme, and others. In addition, you can also consider external merit-based scholarships such as Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees and DAAD (Germany) scholarships, as well as country-specific scholarships such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (France) and Orange Tulip Scholarship (Netherlands).

The academic requirements typically include a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, good grades or GPA, and standardized test scores (e.g., GRE, TOEFL/IELTS). Specific requirements may vary, so it's important to carefully review the information on each program's website.

In my experience, having quality research experience can significantly enhance your chances of securing funding. European universities place a high value on GPA/grades when considering funding applications, so being in the top 15-20% of your class will be highly advantageous.

Graduate school can seem daunting, especially with the numerous myths that often circulate. Let's debunk some of the most common misconceptions to help you better navigate your path to higher education.

Myth #1: Only students with a near-perfect GPA get into top graduate programs.
Reality: While a high GPA is important, admission committees consider the entire application, including research experience, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. A somewhat lower GPA can be balanced by other strengths.

Myth #2: Only PhD students receive financial support; MS students have to pay for their education entirely out-of-pocket.
Reality: There are Master’s programs that offer assistantships and scholarships especially in Canada and Europe. In Europe, some programs are tuition-free. Select schools in the US also provide funding for Masters students. One should research funding opportunities specific to their program of interest to reduce or eliminate the need for loans.

Myth #3: Only students from top (local) universities get accepted into top graduate programs.
Reality: Graduate programs value diversity and recognize talent from all types of institutions. Your academic and professional accomplishments and how effectively you've utilized available opportunities are what matter most.

Myth #4: Without extensive research experience, you won't be considered for a good graduate program.
Reality: While research experience is beneficial, it's not mandatory particularly for Master’s programs. Engaging in substantive projects as part of your coursework is also highly regarded. Admissions committees look for applicants who demonstrate a genuine passion for their field, the potential for academic and professional growth, and unique perspectives.

Myth #5: If you haven't published your research, it doesn’t matter.
Reality: Many successful graduate applicants haven't published their research. What's important is your research experience and what you've learned. Presentations, posters, and contributions to projects are highly valuable.

Myth #6: Your Statement of Purpose (SOP) needs to be near perfect
Reality: While clarity and articulation are important, admissions committees care more about your motivations, journey, and how well you fit with their program. Minor errors won't overshadow a compelling narrative that showcases your passion and goals.

Myth #7: You need a detailed, specific research plan before applying.
Reality: Many graduate programs recognize that research interests can evolve over time so they do not look for detailed, specific research plans. They look for applicants who exhibit intellectual curiosity and a readiness to explore diverse areas within their field. Demonstrating a broad direction and a passion for the subject often suffices, showcasing your potential to grow and adapt as you delve deeper into your studies.

In most universities, there are two admission cycles: the Fall cycle, which typically spans from December to February (with some universities having earlier or later deadlines), and the Spring cycle, which usually occurs between July and October. The Fall cycle is the primary cycle, as most admission slots are available during this period, and some universities do not offer a Spring admission cycle.

The Spring cycle is particularly beneficial for students who may have missed the fall deadline or for those who need additional time to improve their standardized test scores or complete essential coursework. However, it's important to note that not all programs or universities offer Spring admissions, and those that do may have fewer spots available.

In my experience, preparing for standardized tests typically takes about 1-3 months of focused study. This timeline can vary depending on the student's familiarity with the test content and their individual learning pace. Starting early provides the flexibility to retake the test if necessary to achieve a higher score.

Taking standardized tests between August and October is a good strategy, particularly for those applying in the Fall cycle. This time frame allows students to receive their scores well before application deadlines, giving them the opportunity to focus on other aspects of their application, such as the statement of purpose and recommendation letters.

That's a great question. While it is challenging to be precise about what constitutes good research but I can share my perspectives. In my view, good research work starts with attempting to solve an important problem—a problem that is relevant, that people care about, one that has the potential to advance knowledge, influence practice, or inform policy.

Once the problem is defined, good research involves employing a sound methodology and evaluation framework to solve it effectively. This process includes thorough investigation of the solution space, analysis, and critical thinking.

For undergraduates, the first research problem is often provided by their professors. The expectation is for the student to demonstrate their ability to solve the problem through various tasks. Excelling in this requires several key qualities:

1. Taking ownership of the project: In other words, showing genuine engagement and responsibility for the project.
2. Ability to learn new things: That is the ability to learn new concepts, tools, and techniques relevant to the research.
3. Initiative: Proactively explore new ideas and approaches.

Having a research publication is beneficial but it is not required for good admissions. If you excel in your research, strong letters of recommendation will reflect your efforts. Additionally, having at least a technical report is very useful.

In my experience, over time, good undergraduates tend to take on more responsibility in research projects by suggesting new ideas, contributing to writing papers, presenting their work, and mentoring junior students.

What should undergrads do to gain good research experience?
To gain research experience as an undergraduate, start by seeking out opportunities within your department. This can involve joining a lab, assisting with faculty projects, or pursuing an independent study. It’s beneficial to get involved as early as possible to gain experience and develop your skills (e.g., summer before the Junior year is a good time to begin looking for projects). Finding a mentor is also crucial; a faculty advisor can provide guidance, support, and opportunities for deeper involvement in research. Be proactive in your research work by proposing ideas, volunteering for additional responsibilities, and seeking feedback to enhance your learning and contributions.

Additionally, focus on developing relevant skills such as research methods, statistical analysis, and research writing. Networking is also important; attend talks/seminars, workshops, and conferences to stay informed about current research trends and connect with other researchers. Finally, keep detailed records of your research activities, methodologies, and findings. This documentation will be very valuable when writing your statement of purpose or research summaries for graduate school applications.

In the US, application fees typically range from $50 to $100 per application. In Europe, many universities, particularly in Germany and the Nordic countries (e.g., Sweden, Norway), have low or no application fees. When fees exist, they range from €50 to €100.

Fee waivers are more commonly offered by US universities, particularly for applicants who demonstrate financial need. In contrast, fee waivers are less common in European universities. One should check directly with universities for availability of such waivers.

The ideal number of universities to apply to varies based on individual circumstances, but in my experience, targeting 8-12 universities is usually sufficient.

Applying to a less competitive, CS-adjacent program to transfer to CS later is a strategy some students consider. However, several factors need to be considered when thinking about such an option. For instance, transfer policies can be uncertain, as changing programs are often competitive and not guaranteed, varying widely between universities. Additionally, some CS programs have prerequisites that are difficult to meet if you start in a different program. Thus, it is important to have a backup plan in case one is unable to transfer.

From an ethical perspective, it's important to ensure that the application accurately reflects the applicants’ true intentions and interests. Fairness is another consideration, as applying to a less competitive program solely to transfer might limit opportunities for students genuinely interested in that field.

As an alternative strategy, you may like to consider broadening your application pool by applying to both highly competitive and less competitive schools to balance your chances. Enhancing one’s profile with relevant projects and internships can improve chances of direct admission to more competitive CS programs. One can also consider other pathways by looking into schools with strong CS programs that may not be in the top 20 but still offer excellent education and opportunities. Finally, you may consider Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering programs, as they often involve significant CS work and can provide a solid foundation in computing without the need for a transfer.

Building on my colleague’s comments, I believe students should give a research orientation to their final year projects. Choosing a project with a research component can help you decide if a research career is right for you. Many universities offer undergraduates the chance to enroll in advanced graduate-level coursework, which often includes semester-long research projects. This experience can help you understand the level of work and commitment required for graduate studies in your field.

Participating in these projects will enhance your appreciation for the research process and its unique demands. It's important to recognize that research is not for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay. However, it’s crucial to be certain about your interest before committing to a graduate program.

I also encourage students to reach out to professors to gain independent research experience and engage with the academic community they aspire to join.

Following Dr. Zafar's insights, I'd like to emphasize that all students in Computer Science or related fields should possess sound data skills. Virtually no fields today can operate without some reliance on data skills, whether directly or indirectly. Whether your focus is on networks, security, or human-computer interaction, data skills are now essential tools in both academic and industrial settings. Building a strong foundation in mathematics and analytical skills through courses in statistics, probability, and linear algebra will also significantly enhance your capabilities within your chosen specialties.

After completing a master's degree, graduates typically follow one of two paths.

One is entering the industry, and it's the path most often taken. Here, those who have excelled academically and enhanced their skills beyond the Bachelor’s degree can expect higher average salaries. The second pathway is, if you have done a Master’s with a thesis and found your interest in research then you can pursue a PhD. A smaller fraction of students also take the leap of launching a startup and building something from scratch that they are passionate about.

Concerning PhDs, it’s important to dispel the myth that they lead solely to academic careers. In reality, many PhD holders find opportunities outside academia. For instance, at tech giant Google, nearly one-third of the workforce holds PhDs, reflecting the company's emphasis on solving future challenges—an ability that PhD training enhances. PhDs are adept at navigating uncertainty and devising innovative solutions to complex problems. This skill set is also valuable in entrepreneurship, where understanding and managing uncertainty is crucial.
I have seen many people who did extremely well in their PhDs and ended up being entrepreneurs.

A general piece of advice I would like to add is the importance of embracing life-long learning. Regardless of your career path, dedicating 15-20% of your time to learning is vital. The skills you acquire today might be obsolete in just a few years, so the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn is essential. This was highlighted recently when over 100,000 skilled employees from top tech companies were laid off. Those who had continuously invested in their learning were better equipped to secure new opportunities in diverse industries. Specializing too narrowly can pose a risk if industry dynamics shift, underscoring the importance of continually updating your knowledge and skills across a broad spectrum.

Profile building varies significantly for both Master's and PhD applicants. For PhD, it is highly valuable to have independent research experience. It signals to the admissions committee that you understand the ups and down of the research process and the uncertainty inherent in research. Without this experience, the admissions committee may find it difficult to assess how well you can manage the transition to the demanding requirements of a PhD program and your potential to succeed.

Broadly speaking, you should try to strive to do well in your courses, especially in subjects relevant to your intended field of graduate study. If you are applying to Computer Science (CS) programs then having good grades in CS, Math and Engineering courses matter more than others because it demonstrates not only your background knowledge but also your ability to grasp complex concepts, and to a certain degree your commitment, work ethic and discipline. Additionally, having independent work experience can significantly enhance your profile. Whether through research projects, internships or even your course projects. This will demonstrate to the admissions committee that you are prepared for graduate-level work and are capable of handling complex tasks independently, which is the norm in graduate school.

For F1 visa applications, you need to provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses for at least the first year of your studies. Typically, this proof can come from:

• Bank statements showing the availability of funds.
• Scholarship letters: If you have received a scholarship, a letter from the institution confirming the scholarship amount (I-20 form may suffice in many cases).
• Sponsorship letters: If someone else (like a parent or other sponsor) is funding your education, a letter from them stating their relationship to you and their commitment to supporting your studies.
• Loan approval documents: If you've secured a loan, documentation that the loan has been approved.

Ideally, having funds in your own name simplifies the process, as it directly demonstrates your available resources, however, this is not the case with most students. Thus, it is common and acceptable for the funds to be in an account owned by a parent or other family member. However, in such cases, additional documentation might be needed, such as affidavit of support (which is a document from the family member or sponsor affirming their relationship to you and their commitment to supporting your studies financially) and/or proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other legal documents establishing the relationship).

Australia and New Zealand share a similar admissions process with the UK, where PhD programs typically span three years. In contrast, PhD programs in the US and Canada often require 5-6 years to complete and accept students directly from their bachelor's degree. However, most PhD programs in Europe, the UK, and New Zealand require a master's degree first, making the total duration comparable. These regions typically expect applicants to have a research proposal ready and to discuss it with a potential advisor before admission, a practice not commonly required in the US.

Countries like Singapore, Korea, and Turkey also have reputable universities that are worth considering. When researching these options, focus on what each university can offer in terms of unique value propositions and the potential impact you could achieve. Consider where you might want to reside post-graduation.

From a broader perspective, regions like North America and Europe generally have more established research ecosystems. However, many other areas offer excellent opportunities for learning and research that you should explore thoroughly.