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Tips for International Applicants

The college application process is overwhelming. From gathering documents to writing essays, there are several key components to keep track of. For international applicants, however, the process can be even more challenging.

US News recently put together a helpful to-do list for international applicants on how to stay prepared for the challenging college admissions process.

GATHER DOCUMENTATION

In addition to standardized admissions tests like the SAT or ACT, international applicants are often required to submit English language proficiency tests like the TOEFL and IELTS. Experts recommend that international applicants allow for ample time to prepare important documents.

“We always ask our prospective international students to start working on documents that take longer to collect, such as transcripts and test scores,” Amanda Schaller, director of international and graduate enrollment at Lindenwood University in Missouri, says.

Experts also recommend international applicants to plan accordingly for time-consuming aspects of the process, such as visa interviews and campus visits.

“While the COVID-19 restrictions have loosened in most countries around the world, it’s important to plan ahead due to continued wait times for visa interviews,” Dana Brolley, director of international services at the University of Idaho, says. “Global travel remains challenging with flights being costly and then canceled or rescheduled. We encourage students to apply early so they can make travel arrangements as soon as possible.”

PRIORITIZE COLLEGE FIT

College-fit is key for all applicants, including international ones.

“We encourage students to optimize for value, which they need to define for themselves by weighing a combination of factors like education quality, prestige, admissions selectivity, campus culture and location,” Lloyd Nimetz, founder and CEO of Spike Lab, a college admissions consultancy, says.

Additionally, it can be helpful for international applicants to reach out to schools to learn more about what they have to offer.

“I can never say this enough: It’s hard for colleges to recruit you effectively if you don’t make yourself known to them. Introduce yourself over email; fill out the request information form on the website,” Meredith Twombly, vice president of undergraduate admissions and financial aid at Clark University, says.

HIGHLIGHT EXTRACURRICULARS

Grades and test scores are only one aspect of your college application. Admissions officers typically assess applications holistically, meaning they’ll consider other factors too such as extracurricular activities and hobbies.

“We’ve heard from students who have taken up a new language, instrument or new hobby during COVID-19 or dedicated more time to their existing passion – art, music, reading, poetry, writing, etc.,” Tony Cabasco, vice president for enrollment at Bennington College, says.

Experts say it’s critical for international applicants to highlight and document extracurriculars in their application.

“When talking with students, I encourage them to start a diary or portfolio of their activities throughout secondary school,” Brolley says. “It’s easy to forget an award or presentation they did a couple years ago, so having that to work from is really helpful.”

Sources: US News, US News

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