All master’s, PhD, professional doctoral, and postdoctoral applicants require resources and tools before, during, and even after the application process to universities and their positions and programs. These resources and tools vary from English test preparation sources and plagiarism-checking tools, such as Grammarly, to AI-powered application management systems/platforms like Applyindex. Even access to flight ticket and accommodation websites with discounts and offers is useful for those who need to travel to a location other than their current location to take language tests or attend visa interviews and biometrics. This article provides a list of essential tools and resources that all applicants need for their application process.
Application Process Management Toolkit
Want to make your university application journey smoother and more effective? Whether you are applying for a course-based master’s, research master’s, professional doctorate, PhD, or postdoctoral position, Applyindex’s tools provide a powerful opportunity to elevate your entire application process. Think of these tools as puzzle pieces (each designed to simplify a specific step of your academic journey) coming together to help you secure admission to one of your target universities. Keep in mind that Applyindex offers the most comprehensive experience for PhD applicants, as some features are exclusively tailored for those who want to find a PhD with full funding. Notion is an alternative to organizing your university application-related research, application deadlines, and notes.
Language Learning and Test Prep Resources
Many students worldwide are required to take language proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, DELF, DALF, TestDaF, and others, as well as standardized tests like GRE General, as part of their application process. Postdoctoral applicants, however, are typically exempt from these tests. Instead, their language proficiency is often demonstrated through their publications or evaluated during interviews. In some cases, universities or programs may waive the language requirement for certain applicants. Nevertheless, students must still be able to communicate effectively throughout their studies. The following resources can help you learn a new language and prepare for any language test relevant to your academic goals.
| Tool/Platform | Description | Take Action |
|---|---|---|
| Rocket Languages | Learn English, French, German, Spanish, and many other languages with Rocket Languages’ unique personalized teaching methods. | Use Rocket Language for a lifetime with only one payment |
| Mondly | Learn any language you want with Mondly. It is used by 140+ million people worldwide. | Try Mondly at 65% off! |
| Coursera | Take online courses with Coursera to boost your language proficiency test scores before applying | Explore Coursera’s Test Prep Courses |
| Udemy | Take online courses with Udemy to boost your language proficiency test scores before applying | Explore Udemy’s Test Prep Courses |
| edX | Take online courses with edX to boost your language proficiency test scores before applying | Explore edX’s Test Prep Courses |
Academic Writing Resources and Tools
Crafting a successful application requires more than strong academics and good grades. The right tools can help you write more effectively, organize your research goals, and develop new skills to strengthen your academic CV. Applyindex’s tools and features ensure that your documents, such as your academic CV, statement of purpose (SOP), letter of motivation (LOM), and cover letter (CL), meet the standards expected in competitive application processes. However, if you prefer to manage your application independently, there are many valuable resources available to enhance your academic writing skills, including Grammarly and online courses offered by platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX.
| Tool/Platform | Description | Take Action |
|---|---|---|
| Grammarly | Improve your academic essay writing, CV, SOP, LOM, and emails with advanced grammar and clarity suggestions. | Try Grammarly Free |
| Coursera | Take courses with Coursera to boost your academic writing. | Explore Coursera’s Academic Writing Courses |
| Udemy | Take courses with Udemy to boost your academic writing. | Explore Udemy’s Academic Writing Courses |
| edX | Take courses with edX to boost your academic writing. | Explore edX’s Academic Writing Courses |
Money Transferring and Student Budget Tools
Managing finances across borders can be challenging, particularly for self-funded students who often need to transfer money internationally. In addition to covering living expenses, students must also pay university application fees, tuition deposits, and other essential charges on time (sometimes in different currencies). Delays or high transfer fees can disrupt the entire process. Reliable platforms like Wise and Xe make it easier to send and receive money securely, with transparent exchange rates and low fees. They also help students track spending and plan budgets effectively, ensuring smoother financial management throughout their studies abroad.
| Platform | Description | Button |
|---|---|---|
| Wise | Convert currency in real time, and transfer money abroad with very low exchange rates and fees. Essential when budgeting living costs. | Sign Up for Wise |
| Xe | Convert currency in real time, and transfer money abroad with very low exchange rates and fees. Essential when budgeting living expenses. | Sign Up for Xe |
Flight and Travel Resources
Relocating for academic purposes, whether for a language test, visa interview, biometrics appointment, or other application-related task, can be costly, especially when travel involves long distances or last-minute bookings. Many students face additional expenses such as luggage fees, accommodation, and transportation. Fortunately, trusted travel platforms like Oojo, Gotogate, and Skyscanner provide affordable flight options, exclusive student discounts, and even cashback offers to ease the financial burden. By comparing prices across multiple airlines and booking in advance through these sites, students can significantly reduce travel costs and make their relocation or study-related trips much more manageable and budget-friendly.
| Platform | Description | Button |
|---|---|---|
| Oojo | Discounted flights and travel deals exclusively for students. | Book Now |
| Gotogate | Earn cashback on every flight and booking. | Get Cashback |
| Skyscanner |
Accommodation for Students
Once you’ve secured admission, the next step is finding a safe and affordable place to live. These platforms specialize in verified student housing and short-term rentals around universities worldwide.
| Platform | Description | Button |
|---|---|---|
| AmberStudent | Find verified student housing near top universities in the USA, UK, Europe, and Australia. | Find Housing |
| HousingAnywhere | Great for international students relocating for grad school. Safe rentals across 30+ countries. | Browse Listings |