How to Make Your Application Stand Out

Applying to universities is a daunting task especially when you’re competing against other talented students. Here are key tips to create a compelling, authentic story that will catch the attention of all admissions officers!  

1. Your Unique Story 

To stand out from thousands of applicants, reflect on what makes you unique, such as experiences that have shaped you (ie overcoming challenges, passion), what draws you to your chosen field (ie life event, talent), and how you can connect your story to your future goals. Create an interesting narrative about how your interests have turned into a passion, and how this has led you towards a particular career path.  

2. Highlight Key Extracurriculars 

With extracurricular activities, focus on depth and impact, emphasizing 1 to 2 activities that you excel at. Highlight leadership, team player and communication skills, ie a role in a sports team. Show how extracurricular activities are relevant to your field, ie if you’re applying to study physics, list awards won in science competitions. Admissions officers are looking for impact not mere participation. 

3. Good Reference Letters 

A good recommendation will go a long way. Choose the right referees, ie teachers or mentors who know you well and will vouch for you. Give them background materials (ie CV, personal statement or list of key achievements) to make their job easier. Ask early so that they have enough time to write a good reference.  

4. Show Interest in the University 

A good strategy involves showing interest in the university. Research carefully and fact check information from primary sources. Tailor your application, mentioning specific programs, professors or unique opportunities. Engage with the university – attend virtual tours, webinars or open days. Connect with current students or alumni to gain better insight.  

5. Final Editing 

First impressions count. Make sure that you proofread your statement for grammar, spelling and formatting errors. Follow instructions such as word limits and submission guidelines, and submit your application early!  

Finally... 

Remember to have a key theme running throughout your application. Think of 3 key points about yourself that you want the admissions team to remember you by. While having stellar grades, good references and great test scores certainly help, standing out involves telling your unique story, showing your passion and how you will be an asset to the university community.  

If you have any questions about applications, please reach out to our admissions team.  

Extracurricular activities continue at a leading US university

如何让你的申请脱颖而出

申请大学是一项艰巨的任务，尤其是当你与其他才华横溢的学生竞争时。以下是一些关键建议，帮助你打造一个引人注目且真实的故事，吸引招生官的注意！ 

1. 你的独特故事 

要想从成千上万的申请者中脱颖而出，反思是什么让你与众不同，例如塑造你的经历（如克服挑战、热情），是什么吸引你选择这个领域（如生活事件、天赋），以及如何将你的故事与未来目标联系起来。创造一个有趣的叙述，讲述你的兴趣如何转化为热情，以及这如何引导你走向特定的职业道路。  

2. 突出关键课外活动 

在课外活动方面，注重深度和影响力，强调你擅长的1到2项活动。突出领导力、团队合作和沟通技巧，例如在运动队中的角色。展示课外活动如何与你的领域相关，例如如果你申请学习物理，列出在科学竞赛中获得的奖项。招生官看重的是影响力，而不仅仅是参与。 

3. 优秀的推荐信 

一封好的推荐信会大有帮助。选择合适的推荐人，例如了解你并愿意为你担保的老师或导师。为他们提供背景材料（如简历、个人陈述或关键成就列表），以简化他们的工作。尽早提出请求，以便他们有足够的时间写出一封好的推荐信。 

4. 展示对大学的兴趣 

一个好的策略是展示对大学的兴趣。仔细研究并从主要来源核实信息。量身定制你的申请，提及具体的项目、教授或独特的机会。与大学互动——参加虚拟导览、网络研讨会或开放日。与在校学生或校友联系，以获得更深入的了解。 

5. 最终编辑 

第一印象很重要。确保你检查了个人陈述中的语法、拼写和格式错误。遵循字数限制和提交指南等指示，并尽早提交申请！ 

最后... 

记住，在你的申请中贯穿一个关键主题。思考关于你自己的3个关键点，你希望招生团队记住这些。虽然出色的成绩、优秀的推荐信和优异的考试成绩当然有帮助，但脱颖而出需要讲述你的独特故事，展示你的热情，以及你如何成为大学社区的宝贵资产。 

如果你对申请有任何疑问，请联系我们的招生团队。