What documents do I need to study abroad?

Many prospective international students complain about their admissions applications being declined by the schools to which they applied. The simple explanation for this is that most times, students do not send or provide the relevant documentation to the admissions department. These documents are so important that failing to include them in an application will result in the application being rejected.Are you wondering what these documents are? Let’s break them down for you. They contain the following, but are not limited to:

1. International passport

2. School certificate/transcript

3. Statement of purpose

4. CV/résumé

5. Portfolio

6. Academic references/ letters of recommendation

7. Proof of English-language proficiency (e.g. IELTS certificate or other language tests)

8. Admissions test results (e.g. GMAT/GRE results, for graduate programs)

1. International Passport

You would be required to scan the first page of your international passport- this page contains your passport photograph and your personal information. This would be used by the university to identify you.

2. School certificate/transcript

School transcripts are used by overseas universities to check the academic ability of applicantsIf you are applying to a undergraduate degree, you will need to provide your high school transcripts.If you are applying to a graduate degree, you will need to provide transcripts from your college years.The method of submitting transcripts varies depending on the requirements of the school to which you are applying, but there are three general ways to submit transcripts: online, by mail, and certified by a third party.Welcome to contact us for more details about transcripts.

3. Statement of purpose

A statement of purpose (or a personal statement) is a major aspect of a school application, that informs admissions committees about who you are, your academic and professional goals, and how you can contribute to the graduate program to which you are applying.Your statement of purpose can make or mar your application and so you must put special attention into ensuring that you communicate your intentions. Your IDP counsellor can also help look through your Statement of Purpose to ensure it is of outstanding quality.

4. CV/Resume

Your CV (curriculum vitae) or resume usually contains your academic and professional experience.Universities are not necessarily interested in a detailed description of all of your jobs and extracurricular activities, though you should definitely include them in your application. What they really want to see is how your previous experience/roles relate to or demonstrates your interest in the program you wish to pursue.If a particular experience or job role doesn’t align with the program you’re applying for, it’s best to remove it from your CV. Also, it’s important to fill up your CV if you have study gaps. Universities want to know what you’ve been doing between the year you graduated from school and the period of your present application. Don’t leave unexplainable study gaps. However, if you have unavoidable study gaps, it’s best to give your reasons and explain them clearly in your Personal Statement.You can also emphasize in your CV the inclusion of published academic papers (if any), work (paid or unpaid) in academic groups, relevant voluntary activities, and so on.

5. Portfolio

Only very specialized programs necessitate the use of a portfolio.A portfolio is a collection of work that demonstrates your abilities, personality, and creativityIt should tell your story from beginning to end, from what you've learned and created to what you intend to do next.In order to be considered for a master's degree in the arts, design, or architecture, you must submit a portfolio. Universities expect your portfolio to reflect your experience and, yes, your talent in your chosen field. They'll also consider your clients and the types of projects you've completed.

6. Academic references/ letters of recommendation

A letter of recommendation is a letter in which the writer describes and vouches for the skills, character traits, and overall quality of the student being recommended. This may be from a professional, academic, or personal standpoint.Your lecturer, project supervisor, senior colleague, CEO, etc. are examples of people that you can get a letter of recommendation from. You would be required to submit one or two letters of recommendation.

7. Proof of English-language proficiency (e.g., IELTS certificate or other language tests)

The university of your choice will likely request evidence of English language proficiency, such as the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or other language tests.Some colleges, on the other hand, grant exemptions to students who have earned good grades in KCSE English (credit minimum) and can demonstrate that they were taught in English at their institution. For postgraduates, this is usually done by submitting a letter from the university that states that you were taught in English.Ready to crosscheck your documents? You can contact your IDP counsellor to put you through for free.

Discuss Your Study Abroad Options With an IDP counsellors

This article was an overview of international student working hours. To have a personalised discussion regarding your options for jobs, internships and graduate visas for international students, reach out to IDP and schedule an appointment with our counsellor. IDP counsellor can provide you with up-to-date information and recommendations to help you make a confident and informed decision!