Application Process for Students

Application Process

International students often underestimate the amount of time required to apply for admission to a college or university in the United States. Avoid this mistake by setting a schedule for yourself that starts well in advance of the time that you plan to begin your studies. When setting your timetable, always remember that doing things early is the best way forward. You need to allow yourself sufficient time to thoroughly research the institution and/or program that will best serve your academic and professional goals. Then you must meet the application deadlines of the universities to which you apply, which may be as much as 10 months before the beginning of the school term.

The need for an early start holds true even if you are able to access electronic applications on the Internet. University Web sites and other academic Internet sites may provide quick and convenient access to the required application forms, but you still need time to research your options, contact teachers and institutions to provide recommendations and transcripts, and sign up for required entrance exams in time to meet application deadlines.

Application Timeline

The application timeline will help you plan out your 18 months leading up to studying in the USA.

18 months before U.S. study

• Research various colleges and universities programs
• Register and prepare for required entrance exams

12-14 months before U.S. study

• Choose the schools to which you will apply
• Obtain all necessary information and forms for each school
• Take required entrance exams

10-12 months before U.S. study

• Request any forms and information again, if necessary
• Identify your references and supply them with required reference forms
• Request transcripts from your school/s
• Write your application essay (also called a “personal statement”)
• Retake entrance exams if scores were unsatisfactory

10 months before U.S. study

• Complete and mail applications
• Electronic Applications: An Additional Note

3 months before U.S. study

• Apply for your student visa
• Research health insurance options for your time abroad
• Make travel arrangements for when you arrive in the U.S.

Standardized Tests
Most U.S. colleges and universities require that you take one or more standardized admissions tests in order to gain entrance into their programs. We can provide you with further information about the various tests, and what you need to do in order to take and complete the tests.

(Source: http://www.internationalstudent.com/study_usa/application-process/timeline/ )
 

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Graduate Study in the USA

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