What you need to know to make a successful application
Many international students apply to American higher education institutions to enrol in full-time study programmes every year and therefore having a strong admission application is what you need to shine among the crowd. Understanding that the most important part of a student’s international education journey is their admission application, here are some basic things you need to look at when making yours:
Basic improvable factors of US student application
- English-language proficiency test scores:To study in the US, it’s mandatory to clear English-language proficiency tests such as IELTS, especially If you aren’t a native English speaker.
The International English Language Test System (IELTS) is the most accepted English language test globally and is recognised by over 10,000 organisations, including professional associations, employers, educational institutions and governments in 140 countries worldwide.
Know more about IELTS
- Undergraduate CGPA:US universities assess your scholastic abilities by GPA (Grade Point Average) as there is no official grading system to choose from or regulatory bodies to administer the student evaluation method. Most commonly, institutions follow a four-point grading system, where you are graded on a scale of 0 to 4, with 4 being the maximum CGPA (Grade Point Average). However, some universities also follow a nine or ten-point grading system as well. Do check with our Learningpointt counsellor to understand the grading system followed by your desired university.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): Your SOP to study in the US is a personal essay that covers academic history, professional background, and reasons why you want to take admission in your chosen American university. You must submit a good SOP since it is an important consideration for the admission committee.
Do’s and don’ts to write your perfect SOP
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR): It’s compulsory to submit a LOR when applying for admission at any study level in a US institution. Depending on the course and institution, you might be asked to submit two to three LORs (academic or professional based upon your background and choice of the program).
Know how to get a perfect LOR
- University reputation:While university rankings are an important factor when selecting the right American university, it should not be the only criteria you look for. Other factors like survey results, the volume of research publications, general reputation, alumni donations and program size are also equally important. When looking at rankings, do go through rankings for individual academic programs and departments.
- Research/project work: Your desired US university may also ask you to submit a research statement along with your application especially if you apply for a graduate program leading to a PhD. Take it as a chance to talk about your academic interests, showcase your aptitude and engagement that led you to consider this study program
- Essay:If you are applying for any MBA program or an undergraduate course then your essay is the best tool to demonstrate how much you deserve to be in the course. The admission committee gives importance to a well-drafted essay where a student can express their thoughts in a convincing, yet comprehensive manner. Besides, it signifies a crucial ῀15% of your chance of admission.
How to write an essay for MBA
Course-specific improvable factors for your US application
- For Masters of Science (MS)
GRE (Graduate Record Examination): The GRE test is a well-accepted graduation admission test in most English-speaking countries, especially in the US. Further, there are two types of GRE tests i.e., firstly, General GRE test which covers analytical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning and secondly, subject-specific GRE tests, which some graduate colleges and universities (or individual Masters programmes) prefer over the general one.
- For MBA
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT): If you plan to pursue your MBA for the US, you’ll need an impressive GMAT score. This test is meant to assess your analytical and verbal communication skills which are imperative to possess in the business world. Since most US business schools are ranked among the top 50 international business schools, their GMAT cut off is also high as compared to other study abroad destinations.
- For undergraduate courses
Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or American College Test (ACT): If you are applying for a four-year undergraduate program at an American educational institution, then you are required to take the SAT or ACT admission test. These consist of objective multiple type questions and essay writing that tests your skills and knowledge gained during schooling. In addition, it helps universities to make a well-informed decision based on your academic readiness to perform university-level work.
Note: You will not require to submit your test scores of SAT or ACT for the Fall 2021 intake. However, there might be changes in future intakes, and thus it is important to keep checking with your desired university while making your application.
We understand that getting through the admission process of an institution is the most difficult part of your study abroad journey. Don’t worry, our international education specialists are well informed about the entire process and helped thousands of students realise their dreams. Our experts will help you make a successful application to ensure you achieve your American education goals.