US Universities Admissions

1. SAT or ACT results (except test flexible or optional tests universities)

 

The SAT and ACT are standardized tests used as a part of the US university admission process. These tests are designed to assess an applicant's readiness for college-level work and provide a standardized measure of academic achievement.

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The SAT and ACT differ in format and content. The SAT places more emphasis on vocabulary and critical reading, while the ACT has more questions and is more time-pressured.

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Not all universities require the SAT or ACT, but many do. Some universities have a test-optional policy, which means that applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, it's important for applicants to check the admission requirements of each university they are interested in to determine whether SAT or ACT scores are required.

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2. Advanced Placement

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Advanced Placement (AP) is another component of the US university application process. AP courses are college-level courses that are taken in high school, and students can opt to take an AP exam at the end of the course to earn college credit or advanced placement in college.

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AP courses and exam scores can be included in the university application process, and may be used to demonstrate an applicant's academic abilities and potential for success in college-level coursework. Some universities may require or strongly recommend that applicants take a certain number of AP courses, while others may not consider AP courses or scores in the admissions process.

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3. English proficiency test, e.g. TOEFL, IELTS

 

If you are an international student and English is not your first language, you may be required to take an English proficiency test as part of the US university application process, depending on the university you are applying to.

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4. School report cards

 

School report cards provide information about an applicant's academic performance and achievements throughout their high school years. Typically, applicants are required to submit transcripts or report cards from grades 9 to 12, which show their grades, class rank, and other academic information.

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5. Extracurricular activities

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Extra-curricular activities are an important aspect of the US university application process, as they demonstrate an applicant's interests, passions, and leadership abilities outside of the classroom. However, there are also some myths and misconceptions about extra-curricular activities that can be misleading for applicants. Here are a few:

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• Myth 1: Quantity over Quality - One of the biggest myths is that applicants need to participate in a large number of extra-curricular activities to be competitive. However, it's much more important to focus on quality over quantity. Admissions officers are more interested in seeing an applicant's depth of involvement and leadership in a few activities, rather than a superficial involvement in many.

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• Myth 2: Only Traditional Activities Count - Many applicants believe that only traditional activities such as sports teams or music groups count as extra-curricular activities. However, admissions officers are interested in a wide range of activities, including community service, internships, research projects, and entrepreneurial ventures.

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• Myth 3: Only School Activities Count - Another misconception is that extra-curricular activities must be school-sponsored to be considered relevant. However, activities pursued outside of school, such as volunteering, working, or participating in community organizations, can also be valuable and demonstrate an applicant's character and leadership abilities.

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• Myth 4: Extra-curricular Activities Must Align with Major - Finally, some applicants believe that their extra-curricular activities must align with their intended major or field of study. However, admissions officers are looking for well-rounded applicants and value a diverse range of interests and experiences.​

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6. Personal statement and essays

 

PS is one of the most important aspects of your application. It provides applicants with an opportunity to share their unique story and personality with admissions officers. It's typically a written essay, and is required by most universities.

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The personal statement allows applicants to reflect on their experiences, achievements, and goals, and explain why they are interested in attending a particular university. It's a chance for applicants to demonstrate their writing skills, critical thinking abilities, and intellectual curiosity.

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7. Statement of Purpose (SOP)

 

A statement of purpose (SOP) is a written essay that is typically required for graduate school applications in the US. It's similar to a personal statement, but there are some key differences.

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While the personal statement is more focused on an applicant's personal experiences, goals, and character, the SOP is more focused on an applicant's academic and professional background, research interests, and future career goals. The SOP is often used to evaluate an applicant's fit for a specific graduate program or research opportunity, and to assess their potential for success in that program or field.

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8. Letters of recommendation

 

Typically, US universities require 1-3 LORs. They provide additional information about an applicant's academic abilities, personal character, and potential for success in college. These letters should be from individuals who know the applicant well and can provide specific examples of their achievements and character.

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​9. Interview

 

While some US universities, such as MIT, always require interviews, others may only conduct interviews if they have alumni in the area. This is more common in large cities like London and less common in smaller towns. These interviews are typically informal and are conducted to make sure that who you are matches your application form. 

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Generally, larger institutions with more alumni, particularly large private universities like Harvard, are more likely to conduct interviews. The decision to conduct interviews is not typically based on the type of candidate, unless the candidate is applying for a specific scholarship or program that requires an interview.