I'm planning on doing my MS in US and my top choice is UCSD (FSU, ASU among others) . My GPA is 8.88 and me IELTS score is 8. I have experience in research (published one paper, another under review). My domain is AI&ML but I'm planning on pursuing general CSE for masters. I have stunning LORs from HODs. What are my chances of getting in? Also what other top colleges can I apply to?

Ans: Hello,

To begin with, thank you for contacting us. I am happy to hear that you intend pursuing your Master’s in Science in the USA. To answer your question first, I would like to tell you that having secured a 8.88 GPA, an impressive score of 8 in the IELTS, research experience with one published paper and one under review, as well as recommendation letters from HODs, you have good chances of securing admission to UCSD and similar respected universities. Your adaptability and dedication to the discipline is demonstrated through your experience with AI and ML combined with your desire to enrol in a more broad Computer Science Engineering (CSE) program. You would be glad to know that research-focused applicants like you are highly valued at UCSD, and your application could be unique from the rest. Concerning your query as to which other top colleges you can apply to, I would like to say that taking into account your profile, universities offering robust programs in CSE and opportunities for AI & ML research, viz., Arizona State University (ASU), Carnegie Mellon University, University of California, Berkeley, and Florida State University (FSU), might be other outstanding choices for your application.

You should bear in mind that several criteria beyond the scope of academics, viz., the calibre of the candidate pool, particular prerequisites for the program, essays, and any other experiences or qualifications you choose to highlight in your application, also play a key role in making admission decisions. Thus, despite your impressive qualifications, I would recommend that you craft a comprehensive application that throws light on your ambitions, enthusiasm, as well as your distinct contributions to the field.

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