Student blogs

Applications to Karolinska Institutet (KI) are open! Check the details and deadlines on the KI Master’s application page.

An important component of your KI application, if you apply for a master´s programme, is the CV form. Unlike many applications where you design your own layout, KI requires you to use a specific pre-made CV template provided as a fill-in-the-blank document. From my perspective, this is very positive because it lets admissions programmes evaluate all candidates equally, since they all have the same CV structure.

Each master’s programme has its own CV template, which can be found on the KI webpage and the course-specific webpage

Now that I have guided you on how to find the CV template you need to fill in, let’s talk about how to do it.

Key strategies for your KI CV:

First, the CV content can change from year to year, but in general you need to provide information about your previous education and experience in different areas, for example.

This part differs for each CV template. Check your CV form and be aware of the content you will need to provide well in time. If you have any doubts or questions, you can always contact the course director of your programme. I did this last year while making mine!

Tailor your experience:

You do not need to list every single experience they are asking for. Instead, carefully select experiences that align specifically with the programme you are applying for and will help you stand out. You also don’t need to fill every blank space in the CV.  

Since we all come from very different backgrounds and educational systems, it can be tricky to fit your experience into the most appropriate section. You’ll have to use your best judgment. I was a bit insecure about filling out those blanks, but my advice is to read the instructions on the CV template and be reasonable about where you put each item.

Another important aspect is that you need to be able to provide documentation for the experience you are stating, and it has to be written in English or Swedish. Always check the CV form instructions and see what is accepted for your course.

Craft a compelling statement of intent:

The CV form includes a section for a statement of intent. This is the only place on the CV that you can use your voice, and it is your chance to explain why you are applying to this specific course and connect the dots across your academic and professional background.

While writing this statement can feel intimidating, it is a valuable exercise in reflecting on your goals and motivations. It allows you to connect the different elements of your CV into a narrative. It also allows you to train the skill of building this kind of statement, as many selection processes require one.

It is interesting to explain why you are choosing KI specifically instead of other universities. You could talk about a subject you want to study here, a topic from your course syllabus that you’re really looking forward to, or a professor you’re interested in working with. Try to be specific rather than general, your statement needs to be tailored for KI and the course you are applying for.

Don´t feel intimidated by the document structure or how to fill in the sections and if you have questions about it, contact the admissions programme and/or programme directors (contact information can be found on each programme’s page).

Useful links:

CV form instructions

Admissions dates and requirements

Webinars for prospective students  

Are you applying to KI this year? Let me know which programme in the comments!