Study Abroad Application (8 Documents)

Here’s all you need to know about your study abroad application documents. 

These documents may seem enormous, but they can be sourced, arranged, and submitted successfully. 

The study abroad application process is arduous, requiring a meticulous approach. However, with the correct information and assistance from our team, you’d get your admission offer. 

The documents for study abroad applications range from essential legal certificates to proofs of academic qualification and many more. And these documents are requested at various stages of the application process. 

Standard documents for study abroad application processes 

Application form

You need an application form to submit your entry to your chosen tertiary institution. This form is available on the school’s website, where it can be filled and submitted digitally. You may also get one from the representing partners of the institution in your country.

Passport Data Page

The passport data page is the biodata page of your passport (international passport data page). This page should contain some bio information such as your complete name, place of birth, and date of birth. 

Academic transcripts and certificates 

It would help if you had your academic transcripts like the SSCE result, university & college graduation transcript. And other relevant transcripts for every qualification you enlist in your application form. 

These transcripts and mark sheets are asked for at the early stage of the application process to enable the admission officers to make the right decision. 

Some institutions may also request certificates of these past academic qualifications, depending on the nature of the degree.

Curriculum vitae

Curriculum vitae (CV) is also called a resume and is essential for all postgraduate study abroad applications. 

This document is not mandatory for undergraduate degree applications. However, it’s essential for masters and other postgraduate applications. 

If you have an array of interests and experiences, it’s advised that you curate a new CV to reflect your interest, experience, and need for more training in the field of application. 

Proof of language proficiency

The proof of language proficiency is a significant criterion for international students – whether an undergraduate or postgraduate degree application. 

Students who are yet to complete their language proficiency test may be granted conditional admission. However, they’d need to provide this document for an unconditional offer of admission.  

Some standard language proficiency proofs include 

• IELTS and TOEFL for English-speaking regions
• DILF, DELF, and DALF, for french speaking territories
• ACTFL and LPT for Spanish regions. 

Always endeavor to commence your intended destination’s language proficiency test as soon as you choose the country to pursue your international education goals. 

Proof of funds / financial documents

Studying abroad is financially demanding; this, coupled with the high cost of living in some countries, has made the proof of funds a vital requirement for every international education application. 

It could be a bank statement, an open equity line of credit, a copy of the money market account balance, or any other document to prove that you can provide personal and academic financial needs. 

Motivation letter/ letter of intent/ statement of purpose 

This letter should be concise; a summary of your reason for choosing the program and school. The letter should contain your background, past academic qualifications, current aspirations, and career goals. 

This letter gives the admission officer some insight into your persona, motivations, life goals and helps the board issue you an offer. 

Reference letter

The reference letter is additional evidence to the curriculum vitae,  letter of purpose/motivation, etc., but from an outsider’s perspective. 

Any adult can write a reference letter; however, for admission purposes, it is best considered if it’s written by an expert in your intended field of study, someone who has the right things to say about you.

Other documents 

Additional documents required for admission application would vary amongst schools and regions.

However, if needed or suggested, documents like a scanned copy of a government-issued ID, birth certificates, and any other document you believe is noteworthy, like awards, letters of appreciation for your commitment towards a course (especially if it’s relevant to the program you are applying for) should all be included, as they could essentially impact the admission team’s decision in your favor.

 

Do you have questions or concerns about your study abroad application? Reach out to our team at Gryn Index.