EPLT Online

We had a record number of applications for starting the MET program in September 2008, so thank you to the many MET students and graduates who have passed the good word along about the program. A lot of our new applicants say that they have heard about the program from a colleague, which we are very pleased to hear.

Unfortunately, the influx of applications has brought to the fore a major issue that could seriously delay the evaluation and acceptance of your application. This problem is in regards to references.Many applicants are making use of the new e-reference option by providing valid email addresses for their three references. However, some of you are still having your referees mail in their reference. This is fine, but there are a couple of things to keep in mind.

As stated on the MET Applications page, a mailed reference must be signed both on the reference itself and across the seal of the envelope. The Faculty of Graduate Studies does not accept references that do not arrive in our office in this manner. Unfortunately, far too many new applicants have had references arrive this way, and we have to request that they be sent to us again. This wastes the reference’s time as well as putting a major delay on the evaluation of the application, even more so if the reference is from a foreign company. We can make no exceptions on this issue, though, so it is imperative that you make sure your reference is aware of this requirement.

Another suggestion (one I’ve made before, but I’ll just reiterate it here) is that you be aware of what the reference will probably say about you. References are confidential, but you should have a general idea that they’re going to give you a good reference. We’ve had a few references come in that have rated most of the applicant’s categories (research ability, Intellectual Capacity, etc) in the 2-3 range (5 being the best), which isn’t much of a recommendation.

Also, make sure that you emphasize that the reference knows that you are applying to a graduate program, so they should stress why they think you would do well in that program. Telling us that you’re a wonderful teacher who all the students like tells us about you, but it doesn’t convince us that you would do well in our program.

I have done a few posts on references on this blog, so explore the MET section for more tips, as well as tips on the submission of transcripts. As always, if you have any questions, you can contact me at any time.