(page under development)

An outline schedule

Applications to university in the USA should run to these key dates:

In your Year 12

By the spring term:

you should be researching suitable universities.

By the summer term:

you should be preparing for entrance testing.

In your Year 13

Between September and November: 

you will take your entrance tests.

Between October and January: 

you will submit your applications in line with published deadlines.

Between November and February: 

you will submit applications for financial aid (if applicable).

Between March and April: 

you will receive admission decisions from the universities you've applied to.

By May: 

you will indicate your final choice of university.

Elements of the application

Standardised Tests

Most universities in the USA require one or more standardised tests.

SAT or ACT: 

These are tests which identify aptitude, and thus suitability for university degree-level study.  Most universities in the USA accept either SAT or ACT, so you will need to explore which test best matches your strengths.

SAT Subject Tests: 

Some competitive university courses require or recommend subject-specific tests.  Check the application process for your targeted course.

English Proficiency Tests: 

Non-first-language English speakers generally need to take the TOEFL or IELTS tests.

Suggestions concerning testing:

• The earlier you start engaging with the application processes, the better.  Year 12 is the perfect time.

• You might think about taking tests more than once, in order to improve your scores.

• As with all matters connected to applications to US universities, make sure you understand the specific requirements for applications to your targeted universities.  There are significant differences, depending on where you apply.

Transcripts

In line with the US High School system, official ‘transcripts’ are required from your current school.  In the US system, these transcripts are an official copy of your school results from across your subjects.  

The English independent school system on which The British School operates does not generate official term-by-term results.  Instead, equivalent academic results are those generated by the official examination system (e.g. iGCSE, A Level, etc.).  

The British School will send a  ‘transcript’ equivalent of your results to the universities to which you’re applying.  This data is likely to be based on classwork, internal school tests, and predicted grades.  This information therefore constitutes a supporting ‘transcript equivalent’, and will be accompanied by an explanatory note, clarifying to the US university how the English independent high-school system works.

Some US universities may require additional clarification of the data being presented in support of your application, and if so, they will advise.

Essays

A ‘personal essay’ is a key factor in your application.

The Common Application Essay is a general essay which can be used in application to more than one university, through The Common Application.

Supplemental Essays are those required additionally by individual universities.  Check out the entrance requirements carefully for your targeted courses.

Suggestions concerning essays:

• You can start drafting essays well ahead of schedule, as this will enable you to refine and revise your material.

• Aim to write authentically, drawing attention to what makes your application special.

• Focus any supplemental essays on the target university and its requirements, avoiding any generic material.

Letters of Recommendation

Two or three letters of application are generally required by universities in support of your application.

These letters are normally written by teachers who know you well as a student.  Some universities may allow an additional letter of recommendation, from a non-teacher, such as a coach, mentor, or employer.  

Suggestions concerning letters of recommendation:

• Make sure your referees are kept updated on your progress and understand your ambitions for university study.

Extracurricular Activities

The university experience in the USA is about more than study and examinations - it’s about an all-round education.  This why US universities are looking for applications from candidates with a broad profile.  Academic drive and performance are prerequisites, but to those you should be adding other notable experiences.

Suggestions  concerning extracurricular activities:

• Make sure your application highlights the range of your experiences and achievements, and that those are substantial and genuine.  You don’t necessarily need a large quantity of extracurricular activities, but there should be depth in what you list.

Photo - University of California, Berkeley, California, USA.   Photo - PxHere.