Steps In Application Process

Application Process

International students often underestimate the amount of time required to apply for admission to a college or university in the United States. You can avoid this mistake by setting a schedule for yourself that begins well in advance of the time that you plan to begin your studies.

When setting your timetable, always remember that starting the process early is the best way forward. You will 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 up to ten months before the beginning of the school term.

Especially for schools with competitive admissions, the application process takes a significant amount of time and effort. You will need to write personal statements and request recommendations from teachers or others who know you well. Even if you are applying on line via the Common Application, you will want to get started early. University websites 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

• Keep working hard in school

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”)

10 Months Before U.S. Study

• Retake entrance exams if scores were unsatisfactory

• Line up all required financing

• 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 will require international undergraduate and graduate students to demonstrate their knowledge and English language proficiency as part of the admissions process through standardized tests. These tests are valuable as a common measure of the skills and abilities of people from different educational backgrounds. Your scores on these tests will play a role in determining whether or not you are admitted to your schools of choice, so learn as much as you can about them before you have to take them.