How to Apply to U.S. Schools

U.S. colleges and universities set their own requirements for admission. The following guidelines are intended to assist you in your search for undergraduate education. It is advisable to start this process approximately at least one year before you plan to begin studies in the U.S. The American academic year begins between August and September, and students generally request admission for the fall term.

1. Obtain information about institutions that offer the program you want to pursue. Use reference guides such as International Student Handbook, CD-ROMs and surf the Internet to locate specific institutions that offer the degree you are seeking.
   
   
2. Communicate directly with the Undergraduate Admissions offices of the U.S. educational institutions to obtain information and application forms. Indicate the major academic area of interest to you. Make sure that you have your name printed consistently and clearly on all correspondence.
   
   
3. Read all materials received carefully to determine whether the program you want is offered; whether you meet the minimum academic requirement; if you require financial assistance; whether your proposed program is available; and whether you can meet the application deadlines.
   
   
4. Apply to more than one institution (at least four). U.S. institutions receive many applications and often cannot accommodate all qualified applicants. You may decide which institution to attend after you have received your letters of acceptance.
   
   
5. Complete the admission application carefully and thoroughly. Be consistent when giving your name and contact information on the application and in all correspondence. If some of your records are under a different name, be sure you indicate that on the application. Complete all items on the application and submit all items requested.
   
   
6. Submit the appropriate application fee in U.S. currency (bank cheques, money orders or by credit card) with your application. Most institutions will not process an application without the fee.
   
   
7. Request your secondary level institution to provide official academic records both in the native language and in English translation. Official documents must bear the seal of the school and authorized signature. Photocopies are not usually acceptable unless they are officially attested as exact copies of the original document.
   
   
8. Non-native English speakers are usually required to take the Test on English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Register early for the TOEFL and request the Educational Testing Service to forward your scores to the institutions to which you are applying.
   
   
9. Register for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), or other tests that may be required by the institution to which you are applying.
   
   
10. Request letters of recommendation as required by the program/institution. Teachers and Guidance Counselors generally write these letters.
    
    
11. Submit verification of scholarship or other financial support.
    
    
12. Note the deadlines for application. Allow time for mail delays, application consideration, and for obtaining passport and visa when you are admitted. Apply early.
    
    
13. Allow 6 8 weeks after sending your complete application to the institution of your choice for an admission decision. Many schools and departments, however, send admission offers around March and April for the fall semester.
    
    
14. It is courteous to notify an institution if you will not accept their offer of admission.
    
    
15. Remember: Institutions will only forward the Certificate of Eligibility (I-20 or IAP-66) after you have been accepted, your level of English proficiency has been determined, and your funding has been established as sufficient to meet the institution's expenses.

Application Timetable