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How do I create a strong application?

When crafting a strong application for further education, such as graduate school or professional programs, it is important to focus on aspects that demonstrate your academic readiness, alignment with program goals, and potential contributions to the academic community.

Here are three concrete steps to enhance your application:

  1. Tailored Essays & Personal Statements

  2. Strong Letters of Recommendation

  3. Evidence of Research and Engagement

 

Want to dig a bit deeper? Try these activities:  

Review the Further Education Module

Toolkit & Resources page (Further Education section)

1. Tailored Essays or Personal Statements

Your personal statement is an important part of your application. It should reflect your academic achievements and professional experiences and demonstrate your passion for the field, your research interests, and how they align with the program's faculty and resources.

Dr. Mikhail Burke shares what he thinks makes a good application.

 

Highlight specific aspects of the program that attract you and discuss how your previous work or school prepared you for success in this new environment. Personalize each statement for each program to which you apply, as generic statements are often less compelling.​

2. Strong Letters of Recommendation

Choose recommenders who know you and can speak specifically about your qualifications and potential for further study. It is also beneficial to select individuals who have observed you in relevant academic or professional settings.

Career Educator -Hannah Stevenson shares advice on how to ask a professor for a reference letter. 

 

Provide them with your resume, personal statement, and information about the program to which you are applying to help them write a detailed and supportive letter

3. Evidence of Research and Engagement

Demonstrating your engagement with the field through classes you have taken, research experiences, conference presentations, publications, or relevant work experience can significantly strengthen your application.

Here are some ways to get research experience at UofT:

  • Work Study - Research Experience Stream supports students in locating and participating in faculty-led research opportunities. These positions provide the opportunity to undertake or support a research project under the direction of a faculty member and involve the application of foundational methodologies and/or theories within a research field.
  • The Undergraduate Research Explorer is designed to help you explore the diverse undergraduate research opportunities at the University of Toronto. This is a filterable tool that will allow you to learn about research programs and funding opportunities.

 

Gathering more information on further education?

Check out these Career Start links about further education: