Easy Steps to Get Into LSE (Or Any Dream Uni, Really)

Spoiler: It’s not that deep… but also, it kinda is.

I saw this hot take on Instagram recently: “Master’s degrees are Asian people’s version of a gap year.” And honestly? I felt that in my soul.

Because while Ashley is in Bali finding herself with a backpack and a coconut, we’re over here in Delhi, Bombay, and Bangalore trying to find ourselves through 3,000-word SOPs, cold emails to alumni, and trying to decode what the heck a “Statement of Academic Purpose” even means.

But jokes aside, the study-abroad journey — especially to a place like the London School of Economics — will be intense, beautiful, and deeply clarifying. If you’re someone who’s looking to get into LSE (or any other dream uni), here’s a no-BS, mildly chaotic, but very real guide I wish I had when I started.

Step 1: Ask Yourself: “Why Am I Doing This?” Like, Really.

And no, “I hate my job” or “I just want to escape India for a bit” doesn’t count — even if that is your honest reason (zero judgment).

You need clarity. For me, I knew I wanted to lead my career into climate change communication. That gave me a sense of direction — the kind of programs I was looking for, and the ones I wasn’t. Once you have your reason, start shortlisting universities. I created an Excel sheet (yes, I’m that girl) with course details, eligibility, profs, application deadlines — the works. Your “why” will also become the heart of your SOP — so the sooner you figure this out, the better.

Step 2: Don’t Apply to 15 Universities. Just Don’t.

It’s tempting to apply everywhere — out of FOMO or fear. But if you don’t know why you’re applying to a university, it’ll show in your application. Plus, you’ll end up broke and burnt out.

I applied to 6 unis, but in hindsight, I could’ve done with just 3-4. For example, I applied to both King’s and Goldsmiths — similar vibes — when I could’ve easily picked one. Instead, go deep. Read course structures, stalk profs on Google Scholar, explore student societies. You’re not just applying for a course — you’re choosing an ecosystem.

Now, let’s talk about grades — because I really need to say this.

I let my average marks hold me back for way too long. I kept wondering if any university would even consider me. But here’s the thing: your story matters more than your scores — especially in your application essays. One underwhelming mark sheet isn’t the end of the road. Ignore the people who say, “You’ll never get into that university with those marks.” Yes, academics matter — but they aren’t the whole picture.

If your grades aren’t perfect, own it. Talk about the journey. Show what you did despite the setbacks. Show resilience. Show growth. Show the person behind the paper. Because admissions committees aren’t looking for perfection — they’re looking for potential.

And that? That lives in your story, not just your GPA.

Step 3: Write From the Gut, Then Let ChatGPT Clean It Up

Hold up. Before you type, “Write my SOP for LSE,” take a breath.

Start by journaling your actual thoughts. Why do you want this course? What makes you wake up and do what you do? Dig up projects from school, internships, or work that shaped your thinking. For example, I mentioned my experience covering COVID across India for ThePrint — not as a flex, but to show what I learned about how communication shapes mindsets. 

The starting to my story^

A video by @Murradonrun (love his channel) changed the way I saw SOP writing. He said: “Don’t just say you’re passionate — show it with a lived experience.” That hit me. ChatGPT can help tidy up your language, but only you can bring the soul.

Watch at 6:20

Pro Tip: Make your friends (or even better, strangers) read your SOP and ask them: “What did you learn about me from this?” My flatmate and younger brother gave me wildly different feedback — and both were equally helpful. (Shoutout to Aaryan and Hrishita)

Step 4: Career Counsellors Are Like Gym Trainers

They’ll help you get into shape, give structure, push deadlines. But they can’t lift the weight for you. Your motivation, your clarity, your story — that’s on you.

Also, they’re a blessing when it comes to documentation (especially if you’re dealing with WES evaluations or US visa nonsense). Use them wisely. So yeah, definitely worth it. Just don’t expect them to hand you your dream admit on a platter.

Step 5: LinkedIn Is the New Google — Especially for Uni Research

Forget the glossy brochures. The Real tea is on LinkedIn.

Search your course + university → Filter by “People” → Message alumni nicely. Most desis are super helpful. Ask them about the course, the vibe, what they wish they knew before they joined.

Also, make sure your LinkedIn is updated. It’s not just about being searchable — it’s about backing up your story. When I said I traveled for a documentary, I had those posts on my socials. When I wrote about caring about climate, my X (Twitter) had posts engaging with climate orgs and news. Receipts matter.

Step 6: Money Talk is Self-Care

Do not skip this.

Do your homework — check tuition fees, rent (hello, London!), living costs, part-time work policies, and scholarship options. Most scholarships are either need-based or come with a long list of merit requirements. And let’s be honest — I was pretty average in school. My grades weren’t stellar.

I started this journey thinking I’d only go if I got a scholarship. I applied to a few, including Chevening. I didn’t get it. In my experience, scholarships aren’t as easy-peasy as they often seem online. However, I’ve been incredibly fortunate that my parents chose to support my education.

Step 7: Manifest It, But Also Put in the Work

Make that vision board. Journal it. Script it. Dream it.

But also? Write. Rewrite. Panic. Doubt yourself. Overthink. Take a break. Come back. Rewrite again. Hit submit. Breathe.

Some things will work, some won’t. I had my heart set on Columbia. But my undergrad credits didn’t match the 4-year requirement, and I was crushed. I thought my dream was slipping away. But guess what? LSE happened. And honestly? I couldn’t have planned it better if I tried.

So yeah, Do the work. Tell your story. And know that your marks aren’t everything — your voice is. Good luck. You’ve got this. 🌍✌🏽

My Vision board for 2025