What are the particular challenges and opportunities for international students applying to American universities?
Since the United States is home to many of the best colleges and universities in the world, it’s no wonder that so many international students apply to American schools. The culture of higher education has changed, however, over the past few decades, and even colleges that were once considered easy to get into and now more competitive than ever. What does this challenging environment mean for international applicants for American colleges?
As mentioned in a previous blog, if you’re an international student, you’ll definitely want to get a jump start on your college applications, since you’re much more likely than an American applicant is to encounter unexpected delays or difficulties along the way. (Even getting a high school transcript that an American admissions committee can read can potentially be a problem.) Also, if English isn’t your first language, be sure to give yourself extra time to prepare for the SAT or ACT exam, which will contain English vocabulary designed to challenge even native English speakers.
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If I’m from outside of the United States, what do I need to know about applying to colleges within the U.S.?
The United States has some of the best colleges and universities in the world, and it’s not surprising that many international students want to apply to them. If you’re one of those students, however, you may be feeling a little intimidated. What’s the process of applying to colleges and universities in America, and how is it different for international students?
First, make sure not to put off your applications until the last minute. This is important for anyone applying to college, but it’s especially important for international applicants. Do your research early, and don’t be afraid to call or email the admissions office, if there are questions you have about applying that aren’t answered on the college website. There are many wonderful colleges in the U.S. you may not have heard of, and its worth consulting US News and World Report, or the Fiske Guide. If you’re from another country, even something as straightforward as a high school transcript is more likely to be in a format–or language–unfamiliar to college admissions officers in the United States. Give yourself plenty of time to adjust for any confusion.
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