Applying for a Master’s Degree Abroad? Read Five Tips for Preparing Your Application

Applying to a graduate program requires preparation and dedication. Beyond meeting the requirements, a strong application should clearly communicate the candidate’s motivations and explain how their studies can make a difference in their personal and professional development, as well as in their broader community.

Through Luksic Scholars, Fundación Luksic supports Chileans in accessing international graduate programs, helping them develop their skills and use their knowledge to contribute to the country’s development.

Here are five tips to keep in mind when applying to a graduate program:

1. Get to know the program in depth

Researching the program’s characteristics, objectives and areas of study is the first step when choosing a graduate program. With this information, applicants can assess whether the opportunity truly aligns with their interests and background, allowing them to better tailor their application.

 2. Prepare your application in advance and stay informed

Once you have chosen a program, it is essential to review the requirements and identify which documents are needed, as these may vary depending on the program.

Gustavo Hunter, a Luksic Scholar who will pursue a program in Sustainability Management at Columbia University, highlights the importance of researching the process in advance and following the official channels of Fundación Luksic and the universities: “For me, it was essential to follow their social media, because they offer information sessions where you can learn about the details, requirements and recommendations for preparing a strong application.”

3. Tailor your recommendation letter to the program

A recommendation letter should be aligned with the program you are applying to and provide relevant information about the candidate’s skills and strengths. For example, if an applicant wants to specialize in public policy, the letter should highlight their strengths, experience or demonstrated interest in that field.

Stefany Fuenzalida, a Luksic Scholar who will pursue a Master’s in International Development at Sciences Po, recommends including elements that help showcase the applicant’s background and trajectory: “I recommend including a personal or professional story that could be valuable to the university, because many institutions value interdisciplinary perspectives and the local insights that applicants can bring. It is also very important to highlight how your experience can contribute to your country and to society more broadly.”

Zoe Zabala, a Luksic Scholar who will pursue a Master of Public Policy at the London School of Economics, also shared advice for those preparing their applications: “In particular, I recommend identifying the elements that set you apart from others, such as your academic and personal development and your life story. Own your story, don’t be afraid to want to give your best for Chile and for the challenges ahead, and make sure all of that comes through in your application.”

5. Connect your experience with what you want to achieve

Your application should show why the program you are applying to is a meaningful step in your journey. To do this, it is important to connect your experience, interests and future goals, explaining what motivates you to study the field and how you hope to apply what you learn.

Eileen Saffery, a Luksic Scholarship recipient who will pursue a Master’s in Circular Economy at the University of Edinburgh, emphasizes that the starting point is taking the leap: “It’s not an easy process, but you only live once and you have to take the opportunities—you have to go for it. You have to take action, look for information on social media and ask for guidance. For example, Fundación Luksic was able to support and guide me. And when it comes to your motivation, be yourself, be authentic about what you want to do and how you want to contribute to Chile and the world.”

Fundación Luksic offers scholarships for a range of international graduate programs. In this link, you can explore the available opportunities, along with information about each program, its requirements and application deadlines. Applications are submitted directly through the universities, according to their respective admission and financial aid processes. New calls and information sessions are also announced through Fundación Luksic’s social media channels (@fundacionluksic).