Securing admission in America has not become so hard as to stop you from making your moves when you exploit the 10 tips on how to apply for US college as an international student.
In the United States of America, higher education includes public research universities, private liberal arts colleges, historically black colleges and universities, community colleges, for-profit colleges, and many other kinds and combinations of institutions. College enrollment rates in the United States have increased over the long term. This should speak volume about calming down your worries on the issue of admission into US colleges.
According to Wikipedia analysis, the large majority of the world’s top universities, as listed by various ranking organizations, are in the United States, including 19 of the top 25, and the most prestigious – Harvard University.
As an international student, you have the opportunity which only awaits to be grabbed. For instance, apart from the fact that the US has a diverse, multicultural population, plus no matter where you are coming from, foreign students applying to US universities can find a like-minded and welcoming community of their own and make the US their second home.
It also deserves to known that many US universities offer flexible curriculum and teaching methods, giving international students like you the chance to explore different disciplines, start your degree program remotely, and/or participate in internships.
Gradually, with internships, co-ops, and externships as an international student, you build professional experience and expand your network of contacts while also diversifying your skill set.
Applying for US College as an International Student
Some of the things to do or tips to have on how to apply for US college as an international student are outlined below for your use. We hope you go through each of the cited points and maximize the advantage they offer.
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Research and Pick the School of Your Choice
One of the ways to go in the business of applying for US college is making sure you pick a well-researched school that meets your demands and expectations academically.
Also, once your applications are ready, it is time to begin applying! Foreign student admission policies at US universities and colleges usually allow you to submit your international student application online, along with your supporting documents.
Before sending your applications, double check to make sure you have attached all necessary information and are sending it to the correct recipient or via the official admissions website for each university.
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Identify and Research the Program that Excites you
You need time to research the programs that interest you, which will likely include several universities and colleges. Once you have gathered enough information about the programs and schools, you can make a final list of universities you want to apply to, based on the factors most important to you and your long-term goals.
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Study Well
The SAT and ACT often strike international students as mysterious. Students might not have learned the material in school, and they might not even be familiar with multiple-choice testing. In some countries, students often resort to furious, time-consuming memorization of test questions. In other countries, they resign themselves to low scores and disappointing admissions results.
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Bag Your Transcript and Make it Ready for Evaluation
Some universities may need to evaluate transcripts of your academic records – this is part of how to apply for college in USA for international students. Because there may be a difference in subject names in your home country and the US, transcripts enable admissions officers to make sure all the subjects you have already studied are valid and recognized by the universities you may attend.
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Fly in Colours Academically
One of the most important factors to any successful application is strong academic results. It is possible to be accepted even if your grades don’t meet the entry requirements, but exceeding them will boost your chances. Make sure to put a little extra effort into your final exams, or when completing a bachelor’s. This is one of the best ways to build your application strong.
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Get Up-to-date Info and Start Applications Early
This timeline for the international student’s college application process is different for each student and will especially depend on your top-choice schools’ application deadlines. Always remember to start the US university application process well ahead of the deadlines to account for unexpected delays. For more information about applying to American universities as an international student, visit USA.gov.
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Pass the US Language Exam
Most universities require a minimum score for both undergraduate and graduate students in any English language test, though some may also prefer a specific test. The minimum score is different depending on the university and program, so check the requirements before you apply.
The most common English language tests you can take are:
- International English Language Testing System exam (IELTS)
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
- C1 Advanced
Each evaluates your English reading and writing skills, along with measuring your speaking and listening abilities. These tests are usually available in your country at centers certified for English language testing. You can learn more about each test by visiting their respective website, such as ielts.org.
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Secure Your Student Visa
To study in the US as an international student, you need to acquire a student visa. To start this process, you need to be accepted by one of the universities you have applied to, as they provide you with an important document known as the I-20 or DS-2019, depending on your visa type.
The document you receive depends on the type of program you have applied to and indicates the type of student visa you need: F-1, J-1, or M-1.
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Keep a Positive Attitude
Many students view standardized testing as an ordeal and a barrier. They shouldn’t. Students who set reasonable goals will find that the SAT offers a tremendous opportunity. Many other elements of a student’s application — such as their grades — are immutable, but students have control over their test scores. They therefore should view exams as a chance to strengthen their applications.
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Document Your Work experience
Including relevant work experience in your university application can give you real benefits over other applicants. If you are applying for a master’s program abroad, work experience can be important. Especially to get a place in an MBA program. If you don’t have any work experience, think about getting a part-time job, internship, or volunteering.
In some cases, work experience can help you get a place in a program even if you don’t have the required grades. For example, if your grades are below the required level, but you have strong work experience related to the subject, some universities will still consider your application and offer you a seat.
How to Survive as an International Student in America
Below are ways by which you can survive as an international student getting into the new academic culture and environment of the United States of America:
Attend Orientation
Make sure you arrive at the university in time to attend freshman orientation. You will meet some of your classmates, get information about school activities, and more. This makes it easier to adjust to university life before the term begins.
Engage in Interesting Extracurricular Activities
If you want the full university experience, add extracurricular activities into the mix. From intramural sports to clubs, these activities are an excellent way to make friends and enjoy your time abroad.
Be Open and Sociable
The United States education system is very social. You will be expected to participate in discussions and work in groups. Some professors even count participation toward your final grade, so make sure you participate.
Choose a Befitting Major for Your Academic Excellence
When you go to school in the United States, you have the option to switch majors. You can spend your freshman and even sophomore years taking the core courses that all students must take. Then, you can choose or switch your major.
Sharpen Your Fluency in English
You need to master the language to succeed at a university in the United States. Your professors will expect perfect grammar and structure when you turn in assignments. You need to be proficient in English to accomplish that.
Know the International Student Services
American universities have international student services offices available to help students who are studying abroad. The staff can help you with your unique needs, including visa information. They can even help you if you need to acquire housing.
Get On-Campus Employment
Living in the United States can be costly, especially if you want to immerse yourself in the culture. Getting an on-campus job will help you make the money you need to get the most out of your time in the United States. You might even save enough money to move off-campus.
Ask Your Lecturers Things Not Clear
In the United States, students are encouraged to ask questions. That includes asking the professional questions if you don’t understand something. Don’t hold back if you have a question.
Cultivate Group Study with American and Other International Students
Create a study group with American and international students. This will give you varying perspectives on the material. When you do this, you’ll understand the subject matter better.
Stay in Touch with Your Family
No matter how much you love studying abroad, you will miss your family. Schedule regular video calls, so you can stay in contact with them. You can even play games or watch TV over video chat. This will help you stay connected while studying overseas.
