When applying to universities in the United States, students usually have the choice of applying through the Common Applications Website (listed below) or can apply directly to the university.
Please be aware that not all universities are listed on the Common Applications Website. At each university website you will find all of the information you need to enable you to apply as an international student.
The general requirements
If you want to go to university in the USA, you will generally need a minimum of 6 GCSEs (including English, Mathematics, and Science), and 3 A levels. For some universities you will also need to take the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test), which is a college entrance exam that a lot of universities use. You can take the SAT exam in Romania and staff at IBSB can advise you how to best prepare for this exam and where and when you can take this exam.
Whilst academic grades play the main role in the UK University application process, universities in the United States are much more interested in the whole package and as such will look your extracurricular pursuits and interest for evidence of excellence and interests that have developed over a number of years. Top universities such and Yale, MIT, Harvard, Brown, and Princeton are interested to know in what ways you will be able to contribute to campus life. If you are an accomplished athlete or musician you have a much better chance of being accepted. Debating skills developed over a number of years, writing for your school magazine or publishing whilst at high school, work experience, and community service will also be taken into account when considering placement and scholarships.
Unlike applications to UK universities, where you pay a single fee, there is usually a fee charged for each individual application. On each university website you will be able to find information in regard to applications for international students and the entry requirements for each course, including application fees. You can also ask the university to mail you a prospectus.
US University/College Entry Requirements
- High School diploma or equivalent (GCSE results in your case)
- College transcript with your A level grades listed Some universities will also require that you take the ACT (American College Testing) and the more competitive institutions such as Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Duke and Brown, etc, will also require the SAT II: subject tests.
Again you will need to check the website for each university to check their entry requirements. Once you have been accepted you will receive via post what is known as an I-20 and with this you can then apply for an F1 (student) visa at an American Embassy. There are plenty of ways to find which university is right for you. Some people base their decision on the academic record, or the financial costs of attending as tuition and living costs are expensive for international students in the US. Costs can range from between $20,000 to $65,000 per year, so this is something which you will need to consider when choosing a university. Many students will qualify for a scholarship, ranging from around $10,000 to full tuition and accommodation. You usually apply for a scholarship once you have been accepted. Scholarships may be means based (related to your parents income), or merit based (for those with academic, sporting, or other abilities that may be of interest to the university you are applying for).
Useful websites:
www.commonapp.org
www.educationusa.info
www.nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator
www.50states.com/college
www.universitiesintheusa.com
www.fulbright.ro
