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Are any documents like resume or letter of recommendation required for the application process for a Master's?

31 Aug 2026 · Answered by Mona Negi · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

Yes, nearly every Masters application requires a resume or CV along with two to three letters of recommendation, usually from professors or supervisors. You will also need official transcripts, a statement of purpose explaining your goals, standardized test scores in some cases, and an application fee.

Mona Negi
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Yes, if you are applying for a Master's degree, you should plan on submitting both a resume and letters of recommendation as standard parts of your application. Most programs will not consider your file complete without these documents, so it helps to prepare them early.

Standard Master's Application Requirements

DocumentWhat It Involves
Resume or CVYour professional experience, internships, and technical skills
Letters of Recommendation2 to 3 letters, usually from professors or supervisors
TranscriptsOfficial records from your prior institutions
Statement of PurposeYour academic interests and career goals
Test ScoresGRE or GMAT, though many programs make these optional

Why Requirements Can Vary By Program

You should keep in mind that exact requirements shift by university and program. An MBA or professional program may prefer recommendation letters from your workplace supervisors, while a research-focused degree usually wants academic references who know your classroom performance.

My Advice

Start requesting your recommendation letters well ahead of deadlines, since professors and supervisors need time to write thoughtful ones. Always check the specific admissions page of each university you are targeting, since exact document lists differ.

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