8. Apply Early and Follow the Instructions
A surprisingly common mistake is submitting a strong application incorrectly.
You can have excellent grades and a great personal statement and still lose an opportunity because you missed a required document or deadline.
Therefore before submitting, check:
* Have I completed every section?
* Are all documents in the required format?
* Have my referees submitted their letters?
* Did I answer the actual questions?
* Is my name consistent across documents?
* Did I submit before the deadline in the correct time zone?
Keep screenshots or confirmation emails after submitting important applications.
That gives you a record if something goes wrong.