How to Fill out the Common App Form: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Step-by-step instructions for filling out the Common App form successfully - The Red Pen

If you have your heart set on pursuing your undergraduate studies in the US, it’s worth your time to understand the Common Application (Common App) form. Easing the tedious process of filling out multiple forms for different colleges, Common App is a single online college application form that more than 900 colleges evaluate.  The first […]

Singapore Undergraduate Studies: Everything You Need to Know

Singapore undergraduate studies guide and admission process - The Red Pen

Singapore provides an exceptional environment for undergraduate students seeking unparalleled opportunities to acquire knowledge and cultivate critical thinking skills. It is home to around 55,000 international students, of which 43 percent are pursuing undergraduate courses. Some of its most sought-after degrees include cybersecurity, media and animation, hospitality and tourism, business analytics and digital economy, logistics […]

Demonstrated Interest: Why it’s Important for Undergraduate Admissions

Young woman in a cozy sweater with a backpack, showing enthusiasm for college applications and demonstrated interest - The Red Pen

Many US colleges for international students have become highly selective. Harvard University’s acceptance rate fell from 10.5 percent to 3.19 percent within a decade. Besides the best and brightest, universities are looking for sincerity. Students must demonstrate interest to express their desire to join the college.  What is demonstrated interest?  Unlike your grades, test scores, […]

5 Mistakes You Need to Avoid in Postgraduate Applications

Hand preventing dominoes from falling, representing common mistakes to avoid in postgraduate applications – The Red Pen

Mastering the art of a successful postgraduate application is a meticulous process that demands four to five months of diligent planning. Even the most organised individuals often commit a few common mistakes that can hinder their chances of success. In this post, we will explore five prevalent mistakes made during postgraduate applications and provide valuable […]

US Undergraduate Standardised Testing: All You Need to Know

Young student studying on a laptop surrounded by school supplies, symbolizing preparation for US standardized testing – US Undergraduate Standardised Testing: All You Need to Know | The Red Pen

Although several US colleges have introduced test-optional and test-blind admissions policies, standardised testing is still significant for undergraduate applications to US universities. It may be in your best interest to take these tests. Even though the test may not be compulsory, a good score may tip the scales in your favour and increase your chances […]

UC Application Made Easy: A Guide for International Students

Simplified UC Application Process for International Students - The Red Pen

Considered one of the best public university systems in the US, the University of California (UC) has nine undergraduate campuses – UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Santa Barbara, UC San Diego, UC Irvine, UC Davis, UC Santa Cruz, UC Riverside, and UC Merced. You must apply through the UC application form to pursue your undergraduate degree […]

Social Service for Postgraduate Admissions: How to Leverage it?

College students engaged in social service

Social service is vital in graduate school admissions and relevant across various streams, including science and finance. But as experienced postgraduate admissions counsellors, we’ve noticed a trend emerge in recent years. Often social science applicants organically showcase community service on their resumes. But our engineers, artists, financiers, and natural scientists focus more on talent development […]

The Ultimate Guide to Undergraduate Courses in the US

Comprehensive overview of US undergraduate programs for students - The Red Pen

US colleges are undoubtedly popular among international students. In a survey conducted by the Institute of International Education with 550+ higher education institutions in the US, 65 percent of the universities revealed that they had seen a surge in international student enrolments for undergraduate courses since the pandemic. But before you apply, let’s understand US […]

How to Ace Imperial College London’s (ICL) Q&A for Master’s Applications

Prospective Master’s student strategizing responses for Imperial College London’s application interview - The Red Pen

Imperial College London (ICL) and several universities that offer a master’s programme in the UK have replaced their statement of purpose (SOP) format with a questionnaire that demands skilled and thoroughly thought-through responses. An unassuming applicant can struggle with the complexity of the questions and submit superficial answers. But don’t worry. As leading global postgraduate […]

Common Mistakes in Master’s Application Essays for Studying Abroad

Young academic preparing her application for a Master's program abroad, consulting essential essay guidelines - The Red Pen

Whether it’s a personal statement or statement of purpose (SOP), your master’s application essay is an opportunity to showcase who you are to the admissions committee beyond just your grades. However, writing these essays can be tricky. We at The Red Pen work with hundreds of postgraduate applicants every year. Despite providing clear guidelines and […]