Compile your University Application Packs
10-12 months before beginning your study
Each component is equally important, however, you can counter a weak component (e.g. low degree classification) with a stronger component (e.g. excellent standardised test scores and references).

Application form
Email, write to, fax or phone the US university’s Director of Graduate Admissions for prospectuses, application forms and financial aid information. You may have to pay for prospectuses. Forms and information may also be online. Also contact the department for information on courses and faculty. Give your name, address, nationality, qualifications obtained, proposed degree subject and ideal start date.

Transcripts
A transcript is an official record of your undergraduate classes (and postgraduate classes if you have already completed a Masters degree), exam marks and grades on coursework. You will need an original transcript, on letter-headed paper and signed by your university's registrar, for each US university or funding body application. US universities will often ask for these transcripts to be provided in sealed envelopes, with a stamp and signature across the seal. A key to the grading system should be included.

Click here to download a sample transcript

References
The university or funding body may also request that your references are provided in sealed envelopes with the referee’s signature across the seal.

Click here to download advice on letters of recommendation

Non-refundable application fee
These range from $30 to $100 per school and payment is often required in US$. You may have to pay your bank a small fee to write you a cheque in US$.