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Application requirements vary for each university. Check each school’s web site to see which documents are required. Most schools suggest you begin the application process 12-14 months before you intend on studying in the U.S. This will ensure that you have plenty of time to take necessary tests, gather information, and send your application in as early as possible
Items | Description | Where to find it |
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Application Form | The application form requires you to provide general data about where you are from and your educational background | University website under International Student Application |
Personal Statement | Provides a chance for the applicant to explain to the admissions committee why they should be accepted to the university | University website under International Student Application |
Academic Transcript | Records showing your academic history (classes you have taken and scores received) | Request from your current university or high school |
Letters of Recommendation | Undergraduates should ask for letters from teachers; graduates may request letters from teachers or employers in their field of study. Recommendations should come from someone the student has a strong relationship with. | Request from your professor or employer |
Financial Statement | Proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses while in the U.S. | Request from your bank |
Supporting Material | You may be required to submit a portfolio of work (art) or evidence of work experience | |
Application Fee | Usually between $25-$100 | |
Standardized test | Primarily multiple-choice aptitude tests that are intended to measure the skills necessary for study | Contact oversees advising center |
All Levels | Description | Test Time | Scores |
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TOEFL or IELTS more info |
Measures an individual's ability to communicate in English | Several times a month | Average passing scores: Undergraduates: 550; Graduates: 600 |
Undergraduate | Description | Test Time | Scores |
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SAT I more info |
Multiple choice Reading, math, writing |
6 times a year overseas | Math range: 200-800 English range: 200-800 |
SAT II more info |
Multiple choice and essay subject test Tests knowledge in specific study areas |
6 times a year overseas | Subject range: 200-800 |
ACT more info |
Multiple choice English, mathematics, reading, science, reasoning |
5 times a year | Range: 1-36 |
Graduate | Description | Test Time | Scores |
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GRE more info |
Graduate School Multiple choice verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills |
2 times a year | Verbal range: 200-800 Quantitative Reasoning range: 200-800 Analytical Writing range: 0-6 |
LSAT more info |
Law School Multiple Choice Reading, analytical reasoning, logical reasoning, and verbal skills |
4 times a year | Range: 120-180 |
MCAT more info |
Medical School Multiple choice and writing sample Scientific knowledge in biology, physics, inorganic and organic chemistry, problem solving, critical thinking, and writing skills |
22 times a year | Range: 1-45 |
GMAT more info |
Business School Multiple choice Verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills |
5 months a year | Average: 570 |