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College Admissions in the U.S.

Admission to undergraduate and graduate programs at top U.S. schools remains quite competitive. Several state and private universities have re-introduced the requirement that applicants submit standardized tests, while many colleges that remain “test-optional” admit those who do submit scores at a higher rate. At the same time, universities continue to practice “holistic” admissions, meaning that, in addition to considering an applicant’s transcript and test scores, they take into account the student's achievements outside the classroom. This approach makes the selection process at most competitive U.S. universities less straightforward and the result less predictable than it is in most other countries.


Many international students interested in applying to U.S. schools now have questions about changes in visa issuance policy and cutbacks to university research budgets. They wonder about the continued viability of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which for decades has allowed students to remain in the U.S. for a period between one and three years after they graduate. While many universities remain committed to being "global campuses," there is growing political pressure on university leaders to give priority to students from the U.S. How does a student from outside the U.S. find the right campus for him or her and then, after being admitted, navigate the visa process?​​

College Admissions Outside the U.S.

In the past several years, more U.S. students have been interested in applying to universities outside the country. These students may be looking for a college experience that is international from the start. Or they may be citizens of another country, meaning their tuition fees may be much lower than they would be in the U.S. For example, most universities in the European Union charge lower fees for students who are citizens of EU member states. Even those without an EU passport will usually pay less than they will at a university in the U.S. Another reason behind this trend is that schools outside the US do not use the “holistic admissions” approach, instead relying on grades and test scores to decide whether to admit. Graduate students often find it less expensive and faster to get their Ph.D. in Europe.


That said, there are some important considerations. Universities outside the U.S. tend to offer less robust services, meaning that students need to advocate for themselves with course registration, housing, health care, and internship/job placements. Many universities in Europe and Asia have more stringent course prerequisites, particularly in math or science. Additionally, there may be language requirements, with the student required to have reached a high level of fluency before enrolling. Alumni networks may be less developed and tend to revolve around the country where the school is located.

Our undergraduate counseling services include:

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  • An admissions process overview, including Early Action, Early Decision, and Rolling Admissions

 

  • A personalized timeline for your application process

 

  • Transcript review and advice on what courses to take in high school, including AP and IB courses

 

  • A wide-ranging list of universities that includes “reach,” “safety,” and “match” schools. These are schools where the applicant has a low, medium, and high rate of admission. schools 

 

  • A plan for standardized tests (SAT/ACT/AP/IB/TOEFL)

 

  • Making  your involvement with projects outside the classroom (extra-curricular activities) a meaningful part of your application

 

  • Help craft and edit the personal statement (essay) sections of your applications 

 

  • Guidance on letters of recommendation – whom you should ask and what information you should include in your application 

 

  • Draft your activity list

 

  • Interview coaching

 

  • Overview of the financial aid process and recommendations for potential scholarships

 

  • Overview of specific  schools and departments of interest

 

  • Assistance with the student visa petition process and standard interview wait times in your country (if applicable)

 

  • Help with the final selection of which school to attend​

Our services for prospective graduate students from outside the US include:

 

  • Help with selecting the best program that meets your needs (Master’s/Ph.D./LLM/MBA, etc)

 

  • Information about the application process 

 

  • A personalized timeline for your application process

 

  • A list of universities that includes “reach,” “safety,” and “match” schools 

 

  • Advice on standardized tests, such as the GRE/GMAT/LSAT/MCAT

 

  • Guidance on letters of recommendation – whom you should ask and what information you should include in your request 

 

  • Drafting and formatting a resume/CV

 

  • Interview coaching

 

  • Overview of the financial aid process and recommendations for potential scholarships

 

  • Overview of specific schools and departments of interest

 

  • Help craft and edit the personal statement (essay) sections of your applications 

 

  • Assistance with the student visa petition process and the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program

 

  • Help with the final selection of which school to attend

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