Fully Funded PhD Program Scholar Dalim from Cambodia Shares His Journey of Securing a Fully Funded PhD at the UT Austin, USA

My name is Dalim. I grew up in Cambodia. After graduating from my High school, I got bachelor's scholarship to Thailand (Chaiyaphum Rajabhat University), majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Then, I moved to Korea to pursue a master’s degree at Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU). Recently, I just got a fully funded Ph.D position in the USA at UT Austin.

Fully Funded PhD Program, University of Texas at Austin Details

• All are fully funded (stipend + tuition fee + insurance)
• Fully funded PhD program, UT Austin
• Global Korean Scholarship Awardee for Master’s Degree Program, SKKU
• Thai Royal Scholarship Awardee for Undergraduate Program, Chaiyaphum Rajabhat University

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Texas at Austin

How Did You Find Information About Fully Funded PhD Program, University of Texas at Austin and University of Texas at Austin?

I heard about those scholarships from my senior and friends.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

Yes, for me, I try to do a mock test as much as possible and find out what kind of mistakes that I have frequently and then correct them asap.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Fully Funded PhD Program University of Texas at Austin?

First, I have prepared for the English test and then tailored my CV as well as my personal statement. Anyway, it is important to know that a strong application is all about the credentials you have so far, like GPA, academic activities, or competition. Thus, boost it now! If you want to get a scholarship.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe it is my international background, as a Cambodian student studying abroad since my bachelor's, that I experienced many obstacles, and those have made me a persistent and resilient person, which is crucial for solving difficult tasks in future endeavors. I think that most of scholarship organizations prefer to give the scholarship to the students they feel that they are ready to tackle the challenging task, so they can complete the program successfully.

Looking Back, Would You Have Done Anything Differently During Your Time in the Program?

Probably, writing my personal statement in advance. I just looked back at my writing submitted during the application and found out that there are many errors in terms of grammar and words. Also, I want to boost my English score even more.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

To get a scholarship, it is all about your accumulated credentials or experience including English test score, GPA and other academic activities. Personally, I believe that no matter where you are now, there is always an opportunity to get those experiences. So please embrace all opportunities you have now to boost your CV. When you are ready, read the guidelines carefully and apply!