How to Avoid Common Application Mistakes

We know application season is tough. Especially, if you are writing it during the holiday season. As you are polishing up those final details on your application, there are several common pitfalls that even the most diligent applicants can fall into. Avoiding these mistakes can make the difference between a strong, compelling application and one that gets overlooked. Let's explore some of the most frequent errors and how to steer clear of them, ensuring your application to Columbia SIPA shines.

Starting with the Basics 

1. Follow the instructions: Make sure that you are following the prompts, word limit and document submission guidelines. Not following these instructions could put your application at a disadvantage. 
2. Check for Grammar, Spelling, and Typos: Ensure that you have the correct spelling. Make sure you spell Columbia, not the country. Know the difference between "I want a master's degree” vs. “I want a Master of Public Administration.” You need to be careful with the capitalization, apostrophes, and other spelling errors. If you are still unsure, I just suggest that you use “graduate degree” where it is appropriate. 

Application Essays 

3. Be specific: While reading your essays, the admissions committee wants to know: what are your skills, what are your goals, and how SIPA can help you.  

   However, you want to show the admissions committee who you are now, but don’t just repeat what your resume says. See if there is a specific moment in your personal or professional experience that can help illustrate who you are as a character. Don’t just tell us that you are passionate. But, show how you felt in those moments and how that made you passionate and established your goals.  

   If you are applying to multiple schools, it is a good idea to write one personal statement that you can tailor to multiple schools. However, make sure that you are being specific to SIPA. Also, make sure that you did not mention any other school than SIPA. 

4. Make sure you submit by the deadline: You don’t need to wait for your recommenders to upload their documents for you to submit. You can still submit your application, and they will be able to upload anytime before the deadline. Remember, you cannot do the video interview until AFTER  you submit your application. That video interview also needs to be completed by the deadline. So, make sure that you submit on time!