The plan, step by step
Build your research profile
Research experience is what turns a good application into a funded one. A paper with a DOI and a supervisor's recommendation are the strongest proof.
Choose countries and programmes
Decide between a taught master's, a research master's and a PhD, and shortlist countries by funding, language and work rights.
Take language tests
Most programmes ask for IELTS or TOEFL. Some US programmes also ask for the GRE.
Contact professors
For research degrees, write to professors whose work matches yours. A short, specific email about their research gets replies.
Write your documents
Statement of purpose, CV, letters of recommendation and, for PhDs, a research statement or proposal.
Apply
Submit applications before the funding deadlines, which are often earlier than the admission deadlines.
Prepare for interviews
Many funded programmes and scholarships interview shortlisted applicants about their research.
Apply for your visa
Gather financial documents and admission letters, and prepare for the visa interview.
Popular destinations
USA
Many funded MS and PhD places through research and teaching assistantships.
Canada
Research master's and PhDs funded by professors' grants and university awards.
Germany
Low or no tuition at public universities, and DAAD scholarships.
United Kingdom
One year master's degrees and Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships.
Australia
Research degrees with university scholarships and Australia Awards.
Japan, South Korea and China
Government scholarships such as MEXT, the Global Korea Scholarship and the Chinese Government Scholarship.
How ScholarLabs AI helps you study abroad
Research course and virtual lab
Learn research methods and publish a paper with a supervisor.
Professor emailing
We find matching professors and write personalised emails about your research.
SOP, LOR and research statement
Documents written around your paper and your research story.
University applications
We prepare and submit applications with you, document by document.
Interview grooming
Mock interviews with feedback for admission and scholarship interviews.
Visa support
Visa interview preparation and application support with the Premium package.
Frequently asked questions
How early should I start my study abroad preparation?
About twelve months before your target intake. Research and publishing take five to six months, and applications and funding deadlines come three to nine months before the start date.
Is IELTS required to study abroad?
Most universities in English speaking countries ask for IELTS or TOEFL. Some accept a medium of instruction letter. Check each programme's requirements.
How do I find a professor to supervise my MS or PhD?
Search for recent papers in your area, note who wrote them, and read the professor's lab page. Then send a short email that refers to their work and explains how your experience fits. Our professor emailing service does this for you.
Can ScholarLabs AI help with my visa?
Yes. The Premium package includes visa interview preparation and visa application support. Individual visa services are also available on request.
Plan your study abroad with us
From your first paper to your visa: compare the Standard and Premium support packages.