Leland+ for Master’s Programs
Popular on Leland+
Comprehensive Guide to Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation can make or break a graduate school application—but too often, applicants underestimate their importance or don’t know how to manage the process strategically. In this session, we’ll cover everything you need to know: whom to ask, when to ask, how to prepare your recommenders, and how to ensure your letters complement and strengthen the rest of your application. You’ll also learn how to approach potential recommenders with confidence, provide the right context and materials, and avoid common pitfalls. With clear guidance from Jennifer P., a Harvard master’s graduate and experienced coach, you’ll walk away with a roadmap to securing strong, authentic recommendations that highlight your strengths and align with your overall story.
3 Secrets of the GRE That Will Raise Your Score Today!
Getting ready for the GRE? Small changes in how you prepare and approach the test can make a big difference in your score. In this workshop, expert test prep coach Bruce H. will reveal three insider strategies that top scorers use to gain an edge on exam day. You’ll learn how to tackle tricky questions with confidence, manage your time more effectively, and avoid the common mistakes that hold test-takers back. Whether you’re just starting your prep or looking for a last-minute boost, these actionable tips will help you raise your score right away.
Statement of Purpose Essay Checklist
Don’t hit submit until you’ve checked every box on this list. Following these steps will help you ensure your essay is flawless and focused.
Applying to US Master’s Programs as an International Applicant
The U.S. admissions process can feel complex and overwhelming for international students—especially when you’re navigating cultural differences, competitive standards, and unfamiliar expectations. In this workshop, Kanishka E.—a Harvard-trained Ph.D. with a decade of experience at elite institutions—will break down what U.S. master’s programs are really looking for and how international applicants can highlight their unique strengths. Whether you’re just starting to explore programs or preparing final materials, this session will give you the insight and tools to stand out in a global applicant pool.
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.
Graduate School Admissions Week (September 15-18) Kickoff
Join us for Leland's Graduate School Admissions Week (September 15–18) Kickoff! Come hear from top admissions experts coaches Tom N., Krysta F., and Amy G. who have helped candidates gain acceptance to their dream master's programs. You’re invited to a week of actionable insights and preparation strategies designed to help you craft a standout application and position yourself for success in the admissions process.
Demystifying Master's Admissions: What You Need to Know
Thinking about graduate school but not sure where to start? In just 30 minutes, this fast-paced and informative session will walk you through the essentials of applying to a master’s program—from choosing the right school to submitting a strong application. Whether you're returning to school after a break, switching careers, or aiming to level up in your field, this webinar will equip you with clear next steps, practical tips, and confidence to begin your journey. Join Amy G., Columbia & NYU Grad Enrollment Leader, to learn what admissions committees look for, how to stand out, and how to stay organized and focused throughout the process.
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.
How to Secure Top Graduate Fellowships: Rhodes, Truman, Knight-Hennessy & More!
Curious about how to earn prestigious fellowships like Rhodes, Marshall, Schwarzman, Knight-Hennessy, and others? In this session, coaches Machmud M. and Claire R.—both Knight-Hennessy Scholars themselves—will share what it takes to stand out in highly competitive selection processes. You’ll learn how to craft a compelling personal narrative, choose and prepare strong recommenders, approach essay prompts, and succeed in interviews, all while highlighting leadership, impact, and academic excellence. Whether you’re exploring opportunities for graduate study abroad, pursuing a master’s in the U.S., or looking to expand your academic and professional horizons, this session will give you clear strategies and practical tools to strengthen your application. With proven frameworks and insights from past awardees, you’ll walk away ready to approach fellowship applications with confidence.
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.
Harvard Masters and McGill PhD: AMA
Thinking about grad school but not sure how to navigate the admissions process? Join us for an open Ask Me Anything session designed to answer your biggest questions about applications, essays, interviews, and more. Led by an experienced grad school coach Haitham S., this session is your chance to get personalized insights on what admissions committees are really looking for. Whether you’re still deciding on programs, polishing your statement of purpose, or preparing for interviews, this AMA will give you clarity and direction.
From Research to Results: Guide to PhD Applications
Thinking about pursuing a PhD but unsure how to navigate the admissions process? Join us for From Research to Results: Guide to PhD Applications, where experienced PhD coach Madeleine L. will break down what it really takes to build a competitive doctoral application. Whether you’re just starting to explore PhD programs or preparing to hit submit, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to strengthen your application and move closer to your academic goals.
Crafting Your Story: Personal Statement Workshop
Your personal statement is one of the most important parts of your grad school application—it’s your chance to go beyond test scores and transcripts to show admissions committees who you really are. In this workshop, expert coach Debby C. will walk you through how to turn your experiences, goals, and passions into a compelling story that stands out. From brainstorming ideas to structuring your narrative and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll gain practical strategies to make your statement authentic, memorable, and impactful. Whether you’re starting with a blank page or revising a draft, this session will give you the tools and confidence to craft an essay that leaves a lasting impression.
How to Write the First Draft of Your Master’s Application SoP in 60 Minutes (or less)
Your Statement of Purpose (SoP) is one of the most important parts of your master’s application—but getting started can feel overwhelming. At the end of this session, you'll walk away with the first draft of your SoP in 60 mins or less. You’ll learn a step-by-step framework to draft a strong first version in under an hour. We’ll cover how to identify your key themes, structure your story, and highlight your academic and professional goals in a way that resonates with admissions committees. The session will be led by Kanishka E., a Leland coach with extensive experience guiding students through competitive graduate applications. You’ll leave with a clear process to take the guesswork out of writing, so you can move from blank page to a compelling SoP draft quickly and confidently. Mostly importantly, we'll get you through the hardest part of your Master's application: getting started.
Strategies for Crushing the New HBS Essays
The Harvard Business School essays have changed—and so has the strategy you’ll need to stand out. In this workshop, Leland coach Andy P. will walk you through proven approaches for tackling the new prompts with clarity and impact. You’ll learn how to identify the stories that best showcase your leadership, values, and potential, while avoiding common pitfalls that weaken otherwise strong applications. Andy will also share practical tips for structuring your essays, weaving a cohesive narrative across your application, and highlighting the qualities HBS is really looking for. Whether you’re just getting started or refining a draft, this session will equip you with actionable strategies to make your essays rise to the top.
Nailing the Schwarzman Scholars Finalist Interview
Have you been selected as a Finalist for the Schwarzman Scholars program? If you've made it this far, a huge congratulations is in order, as you already overcame substantial odds - invitations to the in-person interview are extended to just 5-6% of the total applicant pool. However, the hardest part is yet to come! I'm here to offer advice and tips to help you navigate what will most definitely be one of the most unforgettable days of your life. This free event will cover what to expect in the Finalist round, alongside strategies to prepare for both the behavioral/application-based portion of the interview and the notoriously challenging 'Global Affairs' question.
What Makes a Successful Master’s Applicant in 2025?
Graduate admissions are evolving—and so are the traits that top programs look for. In this session, expert Leland coach Loubna B. will break down what makes a standout Master’s applicant in today’s landscape, from academic readiness to global perspective and career clarity. Whether you’re preparing to apply this cycle or planning ahead, you’ll walk away with clear, actionable insights to strengthen your Master’s applications in 2025 and beyond.
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.
How to Approach Grad School Essays and Personal Statements
Your essays and personal statements are some of the most important parts of your grad school application—and often the hardest to get right. In this session, Michael G. (Schwarzman Scholar) and Elijah D. (Gates-Cambridge), and Erika C. (UPenn M.S.) will walk you through how to craft authentic, memorable essays that make admissions committees take notice. By the end, you’ll have a clear framework for approaching your essays with confidence and a roadmap for writing compelling personal statements that stand out before deadlines hit.
Writing Strong Statements for Graduate Applications: Purpose, Diversity, and Research
Your graduate application statements are a critical opportunity to show admissions committees who you are, what drives you, and how you’ll contribute to their program. In this session, expert Leland coach and former UC Irvine Program Director Bryan M. will guide you through crafting essays that effectively convey your purpose, highlight your unique perspective, and showcase relevant research or professional experiences. By the end, you’ll have actionable strategies to write statements that stand out and make a lasting impression on admissions committees.
