Leland+ for Master’s Programs
Popular on Leland+
Am I Ready to Apply to Grad School?
Applying to graduate school is a big step—and knowing when you’re truly ready can make all the difference. In this workshop, Kelly B.—a former Stanford admissions officer with experience reviewing thousands of applications across disciplines—will help you evaluate your readiness, strengthen your application strategy, and understand what admissions committees are really looking for. Whether you’re still exploring programs or preparing to hit submit, Kelly will share insider insights and practical tools to assess where you are in the process, highlight your unique strengths, and position yourself as a strong candidate.
How to Land a Place at Oxford or Cambridge Panel
Securing a Master's offer from Oxford or Cambridge is one of the most competitive admissions challenges in the world. With rigorous academic standards, unique interview formats, and a highly selective admissions process, standing out requires more than just strong grades. In this panel, Adam B. and Zuwena V. with Matthew M. as a moderator will share proven strategies for excelling at every stage of the Master's admissions process for these elite schools. You’ll gain insights into building a strong academic profile, writing a compelling personal statement, preparing for subject-specific assessments, and navigating the interview. Whether you’re just beginning your application or fine-tuning your final materials, this session will give you the clarity and confidence you need to maximize your chances of success at these world-class institutions.
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.
(Sept 2025) 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Brainstorming Workshop
Use this worksheet to pull out your best stories before you write a single sentence.
Personal Statement/Diversity Essay Brainstorm Guide
Your guide to uncovering authentic stories for your PS or Diversity Essay. This guide will help you go deeper with your personal stories and write something that deeply reflects who you are.
Knight-Hennessy Individual Interview Prep Guide
Sample Questions and Guideline of Knight-Hennessy Finalist Interview
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.
Nurse Practitioner vs. Physician Assistant
Basics differences between these similar paths.
Grad School Applications Tracker
Applying for grad school, but don't know where to start? Use this Google Sheets to keep track of all your graduate school applications, including tests, recommendation letters, and overall application status!
