Applying to a U.S. college can be an overwhelming process if not planned timely. A student needs to keep the various elements – college research, application deadlines, standardized test scores, recommendations, college application essays, visa requirements, etc.- in mind.
Ideally, one needs to draft a realistic college application process ‘timeline’ 20 months before one has to study in the U.S. However, students tend to procrastinate the entire process and end up directionless. So, START PLANNING NOW.
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Mistake #2: Delaying the SAT/ACT/Subject Test prep until the senior year
Scores of standardized tests like the ACT, SAT, and SAT Subject Tests account for almost 33% of the college application of international students. Hence, there is no way one can take these components lightly. Most students plan to take these tests at the end of their junior year and the beginning of their senior year. If you happen to fall into this category, it is time to reconsider your plan.
Ideally, international students should target their SAT/ACT and Subject Tests attempts between the following months
GRADE 10 (ideal for the first attempt): October – December
GRADE 11 (ideal for the second attempt): July – October
GRADE 12 (too late if taken after October): before October
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Mistake #3: Not targeting the right college
International students tend to select their target colleges based on rankings or on the basis of how “famous” or “well-known” these colleges are. While running after these high-ranked colleges, students tend to undervalue potentially excellent undergraduate programs at smaller liberal arts colleges or at lesser-known regional universities. One should filter target colleges on the basis of other factors like location, weather conditions, accessibility, cost of living, courses, student-to-teacher ratio, cultural diversity, average scores required, fees, available financial aid, and an acceptance rate of international students.
Hence, do not get guided by “big names” or “the best colleges” as then you are prone to ignoring strong undergraduate programs which are well within your reach.
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Mistake #4: Being modest in your college application essays
Almost all U.S. colleges require students to prove that they are a perfect fit for their college. These proofs come in the form of personal essays and a list of achievements. Many students tend to become casual about this part of the college application. Ideally, one should try to include every possible significant thing one has done in school: good grades, involvement in sports, music, art, dance, or any social initiative taken.
Remember: Sharing your accomplishments and interests is not “bragging.” Rather, if done right, it can actually impress the admission committee and can open doors to numerous incentives.
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Mistake #5: Having no clear passion
Don’t be under the wrong impression that colleges get super impressed only by good grades and perfect test scores. In reality, they are actually searching for something which reflects your passionate side: your bona fide area of interest and notable achievements in that area. Hence, it is advisable to reflect and figure out your interests and passions in both academic and non-academic areas at the earliest and then build on them.
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