10 Tips to Ace College Interviews

Prospective student engaged in an online interview, applying strategies to excel in college admissions - The Red Pen

You might be getting ready for your interview with admissions officers, other university representatives or alumni in preparations for your studies abroad. While the purpose of the interview is to help a university better understand where you may fit into the campus environment, it is also a wonderful opportunity for you to ask questions, convey […]

COVID-19 Effect: FAQs for Current Students

COVID-19 Effect: FAQs for Current Students | The Red Pen

Applicants who have secured admits and are scheduled to start classes this fall are wondering how the current COVID-19 pandemic affects their education. Read on for some frequently asked questions: I have an admit, but what do I do if the campus doesn’t allow on-campus classes this fall? If your university decides not to allow […]

Can a Master’s Degree Help You Get a Better Job?

Can a Master’s Degree Help You Get a Better Job? | The Red Pen

In India, most graduates with a bachelor’s degree focus on building hard skills in the hope that this will lead to a higher probability of employment. While an undergraduate degree can lead to meaningful employment, there is a difference when one compares the role of an employee with a postgraduate degree to one who has […]

How to Write Your Letter of Continued Interest

Writing a signature on a formal letter of continued interest, guidance for prospective students, by The Red Pen

If you have been deferred from your US early application round to the Regular Decision round, or have been placed on a waitlist for either your undergraduate or postgraduate applications, you might be wondering what you can do next. Since this is not an outright rejection, there are a few things you can do to […]

How To Put Together Your Master’s Application?

Preparation for Master's degree application shown by hands typing on a laptop, The Red Pen

In a highly competitive global marketplace, a master’s degree sets you apart from other job candidates. But irrespective of the programme, the application process to graduate schools has several components and can seem lengthy and daunting. But if you begin working on it in advance in a systematic way, there’s no need to worry.  Keep […]

What Does the Ideal Postgraduate Application Timeline Look Like?

What Does the Ideal Postgraduate Application Timeline Look Like? | The Red Pen

For those of you who are planning to pursue a master’s education next year, you need to start working on your applications now! Most postgraduate programmes are extremely competitive, so you need to spend enough time systematically planning your postgraduate application. When should I start my postgraduate application? The ideal time to start your master’s […]

A Guide to Post-Study Work Visas

Visa application form and passport on a desk, preparation for post-study work visas, by The Red Pen.

There are a lot of factors that go into choosing where you should apply for your postgraduate education if you are planning on going abroad. Besides the course, college, admission requirements and fees, one thing you should also consider is the country’s post-study work visa policies. Each country has its own policies that can be […]

Six Ways You Can Fund Your Master’s Degree

Close-up of U.S. currency and a graduation cap, illustrating funding methods for a master's degree - The Red Pen

There’s a lot you have to do once you receive that letter of acceptance and decide to enrol in a postgraduate programme. One of the biggest concerns for many graduate applicants is how to secure or supplement financing for higher studies abroad. Here are six ways to fund your master’s degree.  1) University-specific scholarships and […]

Should I Use American English or British English When Applying to University?

Differences Between American and British English for University Applications - The Red Pen

The English language curriculum set by the Indian boards has evolved over time, differing from the curriculum in international schooling systems such as the US or the UK–upon which the Indian curriculum was originally modelled. Differences in American English, British English and Indian English cover spelling, usage of active/passive voice and specific expressions and idioms. […]

The Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Your Voice in a Master’s Application

The Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Your Voice in a Master’s Application | The Red Pen

If you are applying for a master’s degree at a university abroad, you will be busy preparing your application package over the next couple of months. Organising letters of recommendation, preparing an up-to-date resume, sitting for your GRE/GMAT and writing your Statement of Purpose (SOP) are all equally important components of your application. Your resume […]