Thread by @chao_mbogho

Dear followers who are currently seeking opportunities and funding for Masters/PhD studies. This makes me really happy so I would like to give you some tips in this thread that would hopefully assist you.

1. Do your homework on which universities you want to go to. For postgrad courses, you want to see that they have a research lab/group that works in the area you are interested in. Also, check that they have the expertise. Browse their websites with a fine tooth comb.

2. Before you apply, reach out to the faculty members whose areas of research resonate with yours. It is common to send out an email to the department or to a particular person - but you need to get your pitch right, and for Ph.D., a concept paper in hand.

3. Before you apply, decide on what research/subject area (even generally so) you are interested in. Going in blind will not serve your purpose. This means that you have to spend time in self-reflection and choosing.

4. So let us assume that you are now ready and have some potential supervisor who is interested in supervising you + you know generally what you want, it is time to put together your funding application.

5. Some funding applications come together with the course application, but some do not. For those that do not, you want to ensure that you have secured a course acceptance first.

6. In the funding application, some of the best purpose statements have seen include: a) Why you want to study for this subject NOW. b) Why it is important now for your society or world c) How it ties to the values of the research school d) how you intend to use the knowledge...

6.b) The topic of how to write a funding proposal is an entire seminar. Perhaps I will hold one soon.

7. If applying overseas, please ENSURE that you secure primary full funding BEFORE you make travel plans. I would advise against traveling abroad with the "hope" of getting funding while studying or after you start.

7b) Ideally, you want to look out for funding opportunities that allow you to hold other funding if you get them. Ensure you ask this if it is not clear in your Terms of Agreement or application. Some are very strict and do not allow you to hold other scholarships.

7c) The advantage of being able to get multiple sources of funding is, once your primary funding is taken care of, you can secure additional funding for field work, conference travel, equipment, etc.

8. A strong point on referees. Always & ONLY get references from people who actually want you to success. Do not rely on template references. Preferably get references from people who have been to postgrad themselves and/or understand the rigor involved as well as your strengths.

9. Rejection will feel bad, but this is okay. Postgrad applications are not easy but you can make putting one together one of your best works yet.

If you get rejected, move on to the next opportunity. Cast your net wide but do not compromise on quality of places you apply to.

Finally, but importantly, know WHY you want to start a postgrad degree. It definitely should not be just for just and not because everyone is doing it. You will get value for your time and effort if you start this process with a clear purpose.

Now go on, and win. :)