Question about non-electronic submissions

[MIA]

Hi all,

I'm applying to UBC's English Phd program. It says on the website that the two copies of official transcript have to be received by them in sealed endorsed envelopes. Does that mean I get my previous college to send the transcripts directly to UBC, or do I get them to send them to me and just not open the envelope and put it inside my own envelope with the rest of my application?

Also, am I meant to do something similar with the LORs? Do I get my profs to send them directly to UBC or do I have them post them to me, and if they're posted to me, should they be in sealed envelopes?

I didn't like the idea of everything being sent in by all these various people and not having it all together in one envelope, in case something got lost.

TIA

[fuzzylogician]

You could ask the department to make sure, but if they don't say the materials has to be mailed directly to them I think it's ok to send everything yourself in one large envelope. Get both the transcripts and the lors in signed sealed envelopes, keep them sealed and put them in your large envelope. I agree that's the best way to send things, because then you can track the envelope and at least know everything got sent and received by the department.

[rogue]

I didn't like the idea of everything being sent in by all these various people and not having it all together in one envelope, in case something got lost.

I feel the same way. With the exception of a few schools that wanted either the LORs or transcripts sent directly, I'm collecting and compiling all my stuff so I can send (and track) it myself.

[focused]

Is it possible that your recommenders may submit their letters online? Most of the programs to which I'm applying actually strongly encourage that applicant submit online all materials, including letters of recommendation. That way, you'll be able to track online when your recommenders have submitted their letters, and your transcript will be the only item you'll need to send via courier.