Graduate School Admissions Competition: What You Should Know

Welcome to what feels like the “Hunger Games” of graduate school admissions. The graduate school admissions competition has never been fiercer. With changes to post-study visa policies in the US and other key countries, as well as a tightening global job market, this admissions cycle is shaping up to be one of the most competitive […]

International Universities Opening Campuses in India: What You Need to Know

International higher education is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Indian students, with 892,989 studying abroad in 2023, are reassessing study abroad options as traditional destinations face growing uncertainty. While overall Indian student outbound numbers dropped by 15 per cent in early 2024, this decline is likely to continue due to ongoing safety concerns, geopolitical instability, and […]

The Return of SAT and ACT in US Universities

Cheerful woman with test results signaling a return to standardised testing, The Red Pen

Editor’s note: This post was updated in October 2025 to include Princeton University’s decision to reinstate standardised testing for fall 2027 applicants. College admissions underwent a profound transformation in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Standardised testing, once a cornerstone of the US admissions process, was quickly sidelined. As the role of the SAT and […]

Master’s Waitlist Strategy: How to Stay in the Running

Applicant looking at her watch — representing a master’s waitlist strategy and patience during the admission process.

After months of preparation, you finally submitted a well-researched, carefully written master’s application with supporting documents and a compelling Statement of Purpose. But when the outcome reads “You’ve been waitlisted,” it can be unsettling. Having a clear master’s waitlist strategy from the start helps you stay calm, respond effectively and improve your chances of turning […]

UK Immigration Policy Changes for Students: What You Need to Know in 2025

In 2022-23, the UK hosted approximately 758,855 international students, with India surpassing China as the largest source country. This phenomenon marked a significant shift in international student demographics, reflecting changing global education trends. However, according to the May 2025 Immigration White Paper, a formal policy document that outlines plans before introducing legislation, the UK government […]

The Ultimate Master’s Strategy: Connecting with Faculty

Many master’s or PhD applicants dedicate countless hours to perfecting their application forms, crafting compelling essays, and meticulously reviewing each line of their resumes. However, they often neglect a crucial strategy: contacting faculty members. University of California, Davis, suggests that initiating thoughtful communication with potential supervisors before applying can significantly enhance your understanding of the […]

Oxbridge Admissions 101: Everything You Need to Know

Two prospective students touring a traditional English town, discussing Oxbridge admissions - The Red Pen

In the realm of higher education, few names carry as much prestige as Oxbridge, a portmanteau of the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. These hallowed institutions, steeped in centuries of tradition and academic excellence, have consistently drawn the brightest minds from around the world. The legacy of Oxbridge universities is marked by […]

Shortlisting US Colleges? Don’t Miss These 6 Key Factors Beyond Rankings

Global network connection with a laptop in use and connected individuals icons – Shortlisting US Colleges? Don’t Miss These 6 Key Factors Beyond Rankings | The Red Pen

According to the Open Doors Report, in the 2022-23 academic year, more than 268,000 Indian students were enrolled in US institutions, underscoring the country’s continued appeal as a study destination. With nearly 4,000 accredited institutions of higher education in the US, deciding where to apply can be overwhelming. Many students, when shortlisting colleges, focus on […]

How to Win a Full Undergraduate Scholarship at Oxford

While international students often pay £35,260 to £59,260 per year at prestigious institutions like the University of Oxford, the Ellison Scholars 2026 Undergraduate Scholarship is changing the narrative. It not only offers a fully funded undergraduate scholarship, but also provides a mission-driven opportunity to develop the skills, mindset, and networks needed to tackle the world’s […]

The Ultimate Guide to Undergraduate Entrance Exams for UK Universities

Ultimate Guide to Undergraduate Entrance Exams for UK Universities Overview - The Red Pen

The UK is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations for bachelor’s degree students. If you’re wondering what exams are required to pursue undergraduate studies in the UK, only a handful of highly selective universities and competitive courses require entrance tests in addition to your UCAS application. Broadly speaking, there are two types of UK […]