Leland+ for Master’s Programs

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.

Master's Applications: School Selection Strategy

An overview of which schools to apply to for Master's programs.

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.

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.

Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholar Letter of Rec

Sample letter of rec for military vet selected as a Knight-Hennessy Scholar.

Essay Edit: Watch Me Transform an Underwhelming Master Essay Draft

Ever wonder what turns a decent essay into an admit-worthy one? In this live session, expert Leland coach and former AdComs at Harvard Karla M. will walk you through the process of transforming a real, underwhelming master’s essay into a compelling, polished narrative. You’ll see how to refine structure, elevate storytelling, and bring clarity and personality to your writing. By the end, you’ll have a clear framework and practical editing techniques to strengthen your own essays and stand out in the admissions process.

Top-Ranked Free Master’s in … Denmark and Sweden

Think University of Copenhagen, Lund University, Stockholm University, and Technical University of Denmark. These top-ranked Scandinavian institutions represent just the tip of what the Nordic countries offer: world-class master's degrees with tuition from zero to €17,000 annually, far below North American alternatives. Behind these prestigious names are remarkable opportunities to pursue advanced degrees delivering exceptional return on investment while building careers in two of the world's happiest, most innovative countries. Denmark and Sweden host dozens of top-ranked institutions offering hundreds of English-taught master's programs spanning all major disciplines. Denmark provides an automatic three-year post-study work permit, while Sweden offers one to two years for job searching, with clear paths to permanent residence. What if this high-quality, budget-friendly pathway to Scandinavian career success is exactly your calling?

Top-Ranked Free Master’s in … Belgium and the Netherlands

Think KU Leuven, University of Amsterdam, Utrecht University, and TU Delft. These top-ranked institutions represent just the tip of what the Low Countries offer: world-class master's degrees with tuition from zero to a few thousand Euros annually, far below North American alternatives. Behind these prestigious names are remarkable opportunities to pursue advanced degrees delivering exceptional return on investment while building careers in Europe's most internationally connected economies. Belgium and the Netherlands host dozens of top-ranked institutions offering over 200 English-taught master's programs spanning business, engineering, sciences, and humanities. Post-study work permits allow one to three years for job searching, with straightforward paths to permanent residence for skilled graduates. What if this high-quality, budget-friendly pathway to European career success is exactly your calling?

CV Guide for Graduate School Admissions

How do graduate admissions committees view CVs? What's most important to include? What type of format should I use? Your answers are in this guide!

The Amy Approach: Understanding Financial Aid

A financial aid guide for graduate students.

Knight-Hennessy Individual Interview Prep Guide

Sample Questions and Guideline of Knight-Hennessy Finalist Interview

UIUC Statement of Purpose: Controls for Sustainable Energy

A mechanical engineering student's compelling statement of purpose for UIUC, detailing her passion for controls and sustainable energy research.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.