Wednesday, November 23, 2016

The Applications Countdown Begins

In less than seven weeks, applications for the 2017/2018 are due.

Before submitting on January 7, 2017, be sure to reach out to us if you still need more guidance. We understand that you may have lingering questions.

To start an application, you need to create an account here and you can consult the application instructions here.

We encourage you to join one of our upcoming virtual sessions on either November 25th or December 7th

Another great way to learn about SAIS Europe’s academic programs is to attend our annual Open Day in Bologna, held this year on December 5th. 


Open Day is the best way to learn about SAIS Europe's Master's programs and get a first-hand look at the campus before applying.  On this day, SAIS Europe opens its doors to prospective students who are considering their post-graduate school options to offer them an opportunity to get to know the faculty, staff and students.

In addition to the resources mentioned above, we have listed some important tips regarding some elements of your application below.  Remember, if you still have questions about your application, you can always email us at: SAIS Europe Admissions Office sais.eu.admissions@jhu.edu.

Résumé/CV
A resume should ideally be between one to two pages. Make sure to highlight all relevant internships, employment, volunteering and student organizations.

Statement of Purpose
This should be less than two pages.  We want to understand why you are applying to graduate school at SAIS. What are you professional goals? Why is our program right for you? How would you contribute and enrich the study body? This is a personal essay about what makes you unique and why our program would be the right fit for you. Tell us something we can’t gather from just looking at your transcripts or CV.


Analytical Essay
This should be on a topic of  national or international importance.  This gives us a sense of how you write. Are you ready to write at a graduate level in English? Can you write an essay presenting a clear argument and support with facts, citations, etc.? This can be on any topic of interest to you – but be sure to present a logical and clear written essay.

Two (2) letters of recommendation
A good rule of thumb is to ideally have one academic letter and one letter from a supervisor (This is strongly recommended for applicants to the Master of Arts in Global Risk (MAGR))  Give your recommenders enough time to write a letter and tell them in detail why you are applying to this program. (Remind them of that class you took, that paper you wrote with a top grade, those extra-curricular activities you were involved in, that important project you delivered on, etc.) The more you prepare them, the better letter they can write about you.  Note: it is better to choose a recommender who knows you well rather than someone who has an ‘impressive title’ but can’t comment on your work ethic, intellect nor character.


TOEFL or IELTS scores, or Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency (non-native English speakers)
All non-native speakers need to submit one of these. If you have taken one of these exams within the last two years, it is still valid. (Remember, you need at least 100 in the TOEFL or a 7 overall in the IELTS to apply.)  If you think you may be exempt from taking this exam, please do get in touch with us. Remember that at SAIS your native /dominant language is the one that meets two out of three criteria below:

(a) The main language of communication between you and one of your parents or caregivers.
(b) An official language in the community where you grew up.
(c) The language of instruction in the high school you attended.

Do consult the application instructions for more details. We wish you the best of luck!

Daniela F. Coleman
Director of Student Recruitment and Admissions, SAIS Europe

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