Thinking about applying to university in the US in 2024?

Here’s what you should be doing over the next few months.  

The US University admissions process is an exciting journey to embark on, yet it is renowned for being a complicated system to navigate. Here are the key things that you should consider when applying to US Universities.  

Understanding the US Admissions Process 

 The US university admissions process is unique and multifaceted. Unlike many other countries, American universities often consider more than just academic achievements, including things like standardised test scores – such as the SAT or ACT – extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and essays.  

Researching and Finalising College Options  

Begin by researching universities and courses that align with your academic interests and longer-term career goals. Consider factors such as location, teaching structure, culture, and the levels of support available before applying to any given university. The US hosts a diverse range of institutions, from large research universities to smaller liberal arts colleges, so there’s bound to be a college that is the perfect fit for you.  

Top tip: seek insights from current students or alumni, attend virtual or in-person university fairs, and follow university LinkedIn pages to gain a deeper understanding of each institution, beyond the information shown on their website.  

 It’s important to select a variety of universities to apply to in order to maximise your chances of acceptance. It’s generally recommended to apply to a mixture of colleges at differing competitiveness – a common strategy amongst applicants is to apply to a blend of ‘safe’ schools that they think they will certainly be accepted into, ‘match’ schools that they are likely to get into, and ‘reach’ schools that they aspire to but have lower chances of getting into.  

 Top tip: apply to 10-20 universities to maximise your chances of acceptance.

Standardised Tests

Students are typically required to take standardised tests such as the SAT or ACT, though these tests are increasingly becoming more optional. The SAT is a multiple-choice paper that tests mathematical and evidence-based reading and writing skills and is designed to measure a high school student's readiness for university. It also provides universities with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. The ACT contains multiple-choice questions in English, maths, reading, and science.

It's important to check whether the university that you are applying to requires an ACT or SAT score, or if not, consider taking one of the tests to enhance your application. Be sure to register for the test deadline – usually around 5 weeks before the test date – to ensure that you can submit your university application on time!

English Proficiency 

Demonstrating proficiency in English is a vital component of the application process. Most US universities require international applicants to take an English language proficiency test such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Be sure to check the specific requirements of each university that you are applying to. 

Essays

Your essay/personal statement is a crucial element of the application. Use this opportunity to showcase your personality, interests, and why you're a good fit for the chosen course. Tailor your essay to each university's specific requirements to convey that you fully understand the expectations of the course and what it entails.

 Highlight your extracurricular activities and achievements. US universities value well-rounded individuals, so emphasise your involvement in clubs, sports, volunteering initiatives, or any other extracurricular activities that you have taken part in to demonstrate your skills and interests. 

 Transcript Evaluation

US universities often require the submission of academic transcripts. It's important to have your transcripts evaluated by a reputable credential evaluation service to ensure that your academic achievements are understood in the US context. 

Letters of Recommendation

Obtain strong letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who know you well academically and personally. These letters provide insight into your character, achievements, and potential for success in higher education. 

Apply

Ensure that you have all of your documents prepared and then submit your application! Once accepted to a US university, you'll need to apply for a student visa (typically an F-1 or J-1 visa). Familiarise yourself with the application process, required documents, and any potential interviews with the US embassy.

If you need any help with interview prep and admissions, please reach out to us! Our mentors are here to support you!