Preparing for US universities

How to choose

Start with the type of programme you want and an honest look at your academic profile. Then think about atmosphere, campus, location and resources — and finances: cost, and the grants you could receive from the university or outside organisations.

Talk to specialists and former students, narrow your list to 10–20 universities and research them in depth. We usually recommend applying to six to ten, from ambitious "reach" schools to ones where your profile is above average. Follow universities on social media and take campus tours online or in person.

Timeline

Start at least 12 months before entry. Applications open on 1 August. Early Decision and Early Action deadlines are usually in early November; regular deadlines fall between late November and early March, mostly in January. A missed deadline means waiting a year — and scholarship applications often need extra documents, so start even earlier if you need funding.

SAT and ACT

Many universities expect SAT or ACT results; some are test-optional, but a strong score still helps at competitive universities. Both tests assess maths, data analysis, reading and writing, but differ in question types, pace and weighting — try both and pick the one that shows you best. Register at least five weeks before the test date and check the last date that fits your application deadline. Universities rarely publish minimum scores, but they do publish the range of admitted students.

Essays

Expect two or three essays or more: the main Common App essay (up to 650 words) plus supplements set by each university. Answer the actual question rather than reusing an essay, avoid errors and empty phrases, and make sure each essay reveals something new rather than repeating the application. Choosing the prompt is a strategic decision.

Other parts of the application

• GPA — the grade point average, with a maximum of 4.0; for international students, it means the highest possible school grades
• IELTS or TOEFL — if you also apply to the UK, IELTS is the logical choice
• A school report and recommendation: universities want to understand your academic context
• An interview — sometimes optional; always say yes and prepare

Decisions

Universities usually announce decisions in March–April, and students have until 1 May to accept. Early applicants hear in December. The outcome can be an acceptance, a place on the waitlist or a rejection. Then comes the visa, and in mid-August orientation days introduce new students to campus life.