International Scholarship Preparation Study Plan
- Prepared for
- Alex Johnson
- Field of study
- Computer Science (Master's level)
- Target intake
- September 2027
- Duration
- 12 months (April 2026 – March 2027)
Primary goal
Secure admission and full funding to a competitive international master's programme in Computer Science
Executive Summary
This study plan outlines a structured 12-month preparation pathway covering programme research, English language improvement, academic profile strengthening, document preparation, and application submission. Each phase includes measurable milestones to ensure steady progress toward a successful scholarship outcome.
Objectives
- Achieve IELTS overall band 7.5 with no section below 6.5
- Shortlist and apply to 5–7 fully funded programmes aligned with academic profile
- Prepare professional CV, motivation letter, study/research proposal, and reference package
- Complete at least one portfolio project demonstrating graduate-level technical ability
Current Baseline
- B.Sc. Computer Science completed (GPA 3.89/4.0)
- Current IELTS: 7.0 (target improvement in Writing and Speaking)
- One research poster and one NGO software project on record
- Two academic referees identified and briefed
Phased Implementation Plan
Phase 1 — Programme research & eligibility mapping (Months 1–2)
Objective: Build a realistic, ranked list of target scholarships and programmes.
- Identify 20+ opportunities using Maseer Borsia filters (field, funding, nationality, degree level).
- Verify eligibility requirements directly on official programme websites.
- Create a master tracker with deadlines, document lists, language requirements, and contact emails.
- Shortlist 7 programmes: 3 ambitious, 2 target, 2 safe options.
- Attend at least one online information session or embassy/university webinar.
Milestone: Completed shortlist with confirmed deadlines and document checklist by end of Month 2.
Phase 2 — Language & academic strengthening (Months 3–5)
Objective: Reach IELTS 7.5 and strengthen evidence of research readiness.
- Study English 90 minutes daily: alternating reading, writing Task 2 essays, and speaking practice.
- Book IELTS exam for Month 5; take one full mock test per fortnight.
- Complete one advanced online course (e.g. distributed systems or cloud architecture) with certificate.
- Build one portfolio project with documentation, GitHub repository, and short demo video.
- Present a technical topic at a student seminar or local meetup to strengthen communication skills.
Milestone: IELTS 7.5 achieved and portfolio project published by end of Month 5.
Phase 3 — Application documents (Months 6–8)
Objective: Prepare polished, programme-specific application materials.
- Draft Europass-style CV and customise for each programme's priorities.
- Write core motivation letter (800–1,000 words) and create tailored versions per application.
- Prepare study plan / research proposal where required (1,000–1,500 words).
- Request recommendation letters 10 weeks before earliest deadline; provide referees with CV and draft statement.
- Review all documents with Maseer Borsia advisor for structure, clarity, and consistency.
Milestone: Full document package ready for first application by end of Month 8.
Phase 4 — Submission, interviews & follow-up (Months 9–12)
Objective: Submit strong applications on time and prepare for selection stages.
- Submit each application at least 3 weeks before deadline; keep PDF copies of all submissions.
- Track status in Maseer Borsia saved opportunities dashboard.
- Prepare for interviews: research programme faculty, practise motivation and career goal questions.
- Send polite follow-up emails if confirmation of receipt is not received within 10 business days.
- Send thank-you notes to referees after submission; update them on outcomes.
Milestone: All target applications submitted; at least one interview completed by end of Month 12.
Weekly Study Routine
| Day | Focus | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | IELTS Reading | Timed reading passages + vocabulary notebook (90 min) |
| Tuesday | Scholarship research | Review 3 programmes; update tracker; note new deadlines (60 min) |
| Wednesday | IELTS Writing | Task 2 essay draft + self-review against band descriptors (90 min) |
| Thursday | Document editing | Revise CV or motivation letter section with advisor feedback (60 min) |
| Friday | Planning & admin | Weekly review: deadlines, referee status, missing documents (45 min) |
| Saturday | Technical skills | Portfolio project or online course module (2–3 hrs) |
| Sunday | Recovery & reading | Light academic reading; speaking practice with peer (60 min) |
Recommended Resources
- Maseer Borsia opportunity database and saved-list tracker
- Official programme websites and Erasmus Mundus catalogue
- IELTS Cambridge practice tests and Writing Task 2 band descriptors
- GitHub portfolio and Europass CV template
- University writing centres' motivation letter guides (MIT, Oxford, DAAD)
Success Metrics
- IELTS overall ≥ 7.5
- Minimum 5 complete applications submitted before deadlines
- Zero missing documents at submission stage
- At least 1 interview invitation or shortlist notification