Applying To a US University

There are certain procedures that you must follow when Applying to a US Universty. Essentially the process is the same for most schools, but there are a few twists that international students must consider. Also there are some common mistakes that international students typically make, often at their own peril.

Research and Inquiries

First, begin with a general inquiry, preferably using the Internet. In the modern era, almost everything you need to know about a school and its process would be outlined on the school’s web page. However, sites are not uniform, and some are more user friendly than others.

If you are unclear about anything, or wish information on scholarships, or application fee waivers, or anything, send an email inquiry. Avoid postal letters! We have seen many flattering letters from international students who mistakenly believe that the said letter is equivalent to an application. Grave mistake! Use the forms! You are much more likely to get quick responses from a university when you are a live, actual applicant.

Admission Fee and Transcripts

Second, pay your application fee and have your transcripts sent. Universities are not fond of hypothetical inquiries. It is a common mistake that international applicants make. Sending a resume or a description of your credentials to ask “what is your chance” will not normally get an enthusiastic or timely response.

Universities generally believe you are a serious applicant when you invest the application fee. By US standards, it is a small investment of usually $25-75. If you are applying to several universities that can be a limiting factor. We discuss ways to address the admission fee problem with the strategic approaches.

Transcripts delay applications processes more than anything else. Since you must request all transcripts from every secondary and post secondary institution, and depend on them to forward it, you will have to be vigilant to follow up with that institution.

Similarly, you will have to keep checking on the status of your application with your prospective institution and not take anything for granted. Keep in mind that some institutions will conditionally admit you with certified copies of your transcripts and exam results. However, before you are eligible for an I-20, most will require that you have the originals sent from the source schools.

Standardized Test

Third, test scores should be completed well in advance and directed to your schools of choice. In most cases, TOEFL, SAT or ACT, or GMAT or GRE if you are post grad, will be needed. As a general rule, TOEFL minimums of 79 (web), 213 (computer) or 550 (paper), will be enough for most schools.

The academic test requirements vary widely depending on the competitiveness of the school. However, if you have completed at least 12 credit hours of post secondary education with good standing in an accredited institution that can typically win you admission as a transfer student.

Beware

Finally, there is one possible quirk to note. Some institutions will require you to submit financial information prior to admitting you. We completely disagree with that approach and would even advocate that prospective students avoid any such institution. It is not that they are disreputable, but we think it signals a rigid philosophy towards international students and forecasts similarly rigid approaches to other processes where discretion can be exercised.  Essentially, they ask you to prove you can pay, before you can be admitted.

Generally, the steps above are all that is required. Whenever possible, do an online transaction or inquiry, and if documents are to be mailed, use express companies to insure delivery.

Before we leave the subject of Applying to a US university here is a basic strategy that will serve to make your task a lot easier. This strategy helps you hedge your bets and stretch your venture capital. Read Strategically Applying to US Universities to learn more about this application strategy.