Leland+ for PhD Programs
Popular on Leland+
Master's and PhD Applications: Getting Started
Beyond the GRE: Building a Winning Grad School Application
In this session, Leland coach Loubna B. will walk you through how to build a compelling graduate school application that goes far beyond just test scores. Drawing on her experience mentoring students into competitive master’s and PhD programs, she’ll share what admissions committees really want to see in your essays, recommendations, and overall narrative. You’ll gain actionable strategies for highlighting your unique strengths, showcasing research or professional experience, and weaving your story into a cohesive, stand-out application. Whether you’re early in the process or putting on the finishing touches, this workshop will equip you with the tools to craft an application that sets you apart.
School List Development Guide
A step-by-step guide to developing a balanced and compelling school list for any master’s program. Learn how to categorize, research, and narrow your options strategically.
Master's Application Timeline & Checklist
Never miss a deadline again. Download the essential timeline and checklist used by successful applicants to manage all phases of their graduate school applications.
From Draft to Done: Finalizing Your PhD Applications
Applying to PhD programs is a long process—and the final stretch can make all the difference. In this session, Madeleine L., Diane K., and Kenneth T., will teach you how to refine and polish your application materials so that every component works together to present a cohesive, compelling story. We’ll cover strategies for tightening your statement of purpose, ensuring your research interests are clear, aligning your recommenders, and avoiding last-minute mistakes. Whether you’re weeks away from submitting or just want a stronger review process, this event will give you practical tools to finalize your PhD applications with confidence.
Graduate Admissions Committee Structure & Roles
Stop guessing how your application is reviewed. Understand the structure, hierarchy, and roles of the graduate admissions committee to strategically frame your candidacy.
The PhD Edge: How to Craft a Compelling Application
Applying to PhD programs is about more than strong grades and test scores—it’s about demonstrating your potential as a researcher and future scholar. In this session, top admissions expert coach Loubna B. will share insider strategies for building a standout application that highlights both your academic strengths and your research vision. You’ll learn how to craft a compelling statement of purpose, showcase your research experiences, and position your long-term goals in a way that resonates with faculty reviewers. We’ll also cover how to secure strong recommendations, avoid common mistakes, and tailor your application to specific programs. Whether you’re early in the process or polishing your materials, this event will give you the tools and confidence to approach PhD admissions with clarity and purpose.
Checklist: PhD School List Development and Prospective Faculty Search
Stop wasting time: Use this actionable framework to build your PhD school list and find the right faculty mentors. Learn how to target programs that match your research and maximize your admissions odds.
Inside the Grad Admissions Office from ex-Stanford Graduate Admissions Committee Member
An ex-Stanford Graduate Admissions Committee member reveals the unwritten rules of application review. Learn exactly what adcoms discuss and look for in a candidate.
How to Create a Competitive PhD Application
Applying to PhD programs is about more than strong grades and test scores—it’s about demonstrating research potential, academic fit, and a clear vision for your scholarly path. In this session, Leland coach and former AdComs Director at Princeton and Penn, Melissa A. will break down exactly what makes an applicant stand out in a highly selective process. Whether you’re applying this cycle or planning ahead, you’ll leave with a clear strategy for building a strong, cohesive, and competitive PhD application.
Building Your School List
A tool for filtering and organizing your master’s program targets. Use this list framework to assess fit and maximize your admissions chances.
PhD to Industry: How to Successfully Navigate the Transition
Graduate students devote countless hours and effort into producing the best research possible. But little do we get the chance to candidly discuss midst all the papers and figures - how can we start laying the foundation that will help launch us into the next stage of our career? In this compact 30-minute session, Diane K. (PhD in Biomedical Engineering | Biotech Corp Dev | ex-Goldman), will share tips on how to best set up for success during your PhD studies for your long-term career goals. PhD students of all stages - from just applied/started to dissertation-ready, and even recently defended - will be able to walk away with actionable recommendations. Come with questions and leave with a roadmap to confidently navigate your PhD studies and transition into industry.
Your Next Chapter: Navigating the Road to Graduate School
Thinking about graduate school but not sure where to start? This session will break down the entire journey—from choosing the right program to preparing a standout application. From Aric F., Zuwena V. and Matthew M., You’ll learn what admissions committees are really looking for, how to position your academic and professional experiences, and strategies to make your application shine. This event will equip you with the insights and tools to confidently take the next step toward your future.
Staying Organized During PhD Applications
Staying organized can make all the difference during the demanding PhD application process. In this session, Jennifer D.—a first-generation college student who went on to earn a JD/PhD in History at Stanford University and was selected as a Knight-Hennessy Scholar—will share proven systems and strategies for managing deadlines, recommendation letters, research statements, and more. You’ll learn how to structure your application workflow, track submissions efficiently, and reduce stress while keeping your materials polished and cohesive. Whether you’re applying this cycle or planning ahead, this session will help you approach the process with clarity, confidence, and control.
