Application Review Process

The application review process includes shortlisting those participants who would be part of the Project. The reviewing process is an important part of the program since it will determine the type of applicants you select. 

The applications review process will be subject to the time available to you, the number of applications received and the quality of applications. General considerations for this are provided below:

1. Application steps:

The standard application steps could include the following:

1. Round 1 – Form:  The application form includes filling out the application on google forms and answering the questions in the form.
2. Round 2 – Open House: The Open House would include the shortlisted participants partaking in Open House sessions in groups of 5 or 6. 
3. Round 3 – Personal interview: Personal interviews would include one-on-one interactions with the further shortlisted participants from the Open House.

2. Number of steps:

The number of steps in the review process should be subject to the number of applications received and the first shortlist of applications.  If the number of applications received is less, then you can have fewer steps in the process since the first shortlist itself would be closer to the number of spots available. However, in case you receive more applications but you have shortlisted participants post the second round itself, then you can end the process post the second round.

3. Setting the timeline:

Setting the timeline is important to ensure that the program kicks off on time and that participants are informed of the program dates in advance. Therefore, the form should be live at least 2 months prior to the application deadline and that at least 3 weeks are accounted for conducting Rounds 2 and 3. 

4. Communication to final shortlist:

The final shortlist of applicants should be informed of their selection via individual phone calls. These phone calls are where you should explain the structure of the program, hours required, deliverables, etc. to ensure that participants are aware of what they are getting into.  The formal communication via email should only be sent in after participants confirm their participation on this call. 

5. Communication to other applications:

The candidates who have not been selected should be communicated their results in a timely manner. This is importance since from their perspective, they would have been waiting to find out, as well as plan their schedules, based on this. 

6. Criteria for selection:

You should also iron out those facets of participants which will make them a right fit for the Project. Two key aspects that could be helpful are:

1. Impact on participant: It is important to iron out and assess the impact that the program could have on the participant. This can be in terms of their work, their thought process, or even their personal lives. 
2. Value add to the program: You can also try and assess the impact that participants could have on the program. This can be in terms of your own thought process, information on topics being discussed, personal contexts and perspectives, amongst others.