Need inspiration for your college essay? Want to see some recent exemplars? Each of these eloquently reveals family upbringing, values, experiences and inner transformations that bring each of these applicants to life and make them memorable, likable, knowable. #collegeessaygoals
NY Times
Selected Colleges, 2018 Edition
As the political landscape continues to evolve in the US, American and international students are considering broadening their horizons beyond US borders.
Each year, we have some students who decide to apply to colleges and universities in the US and abroad, and if this might be a consideration for you, you should begin to weigh the options of different possible paths. Some of the primary factors students consider when deciding to study in the US or abroad include:
Language: While it may seem obvious, it’s necessary to study in a country where the language of instruction is a language that you have already achieved native or high-level proficiency in. This is why the most popular destinations for American students is often the UK and Australia. While the native language of the country does not have to be one you speak, you should check that the language of instruction is still English (such as in Sweden).
Clarity of Intended Major and Career Goals: Colleges and universities in the US usually offer students more flexibility to explore different subject areas, and even after declaring a major, some offer freedom to choose additional courses or even build your own major. Typically in other countries, students must choose a field of study even before applying. For example, in countries like the UK and Germany you apply to a specific degree program, so you must have a clear sense of purpose by Grade 12. If this sounds like you, you can research the top universities in the world by major here.
Cost: The tuition of US universities is generally higher than that of other countries. Throughout Europe, tuition is subsidized by the government, and even international non-EU students enjoy generally lower tuition.
Application & Entry Process Differences: The college admissions process in the US is complex and the process and factors considered in how highly selective colleges and universities make admissions decisions is rather obtuse. In other countries, admissions decisions are typically fairly black and white, and are based on your transcript, and if required, standardized test scores. In the UK, students must complete an application through UCAS, and different systems use different application processes, so it is important to notify your high school counselor if you are considering universities abroad to ensure you do not miss any deadlines and meet all of the necessary requirements.
Perks of studying outside the US:
Finish in less time-- You can graduate from university in the UK and Europe with a Bachelor’s degree in three years, meaning one less year of tuition.
Much more affordable-- The UK and Europe tuition is much more affordable, and in some countries even free- Germany and Norway don’t charge tuition, even for international students.
Differentiate yourself-- In an increasingly global world, obtaining a bachelor’s degree abroad stands out, and indicates that you have a higher level of maturity, independence, and an ability to adapt
Culture and language immersion-- If you attend a university where there are other languages spoken, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself and expand your worldview well beyond the culture you grew up in.
Increased Network and Travel Opportunities-- You will likely meet classmates and friends from all over the world. Similarly, travel opportunities to many other countries and cultures in places like Europe and Asia are also close at hand.
Curious to dive deeper into the options at home and abroad? Get in touch with us to start a conversation about domestic and international university options, and how to track your course to successful college admissions.
The 11th grade of high school is often regarded as the most challenging year. This is because students often significantly increase their number of college-level courses and it is the final year of year-long grades that colleges will be able to see when you apply.
It is easy to get overwhelmed by everything, so I recommend that all juniors do these six things to guarantee success.
#1: Take the SAT or ACT at least once before the end of your junior year. Make sure you have a calendar of all the test dates for your junior and senior year so you can see when you will have time before a test date to prepare. You do not want to be scrambling to take the SAT or the TOEFL for the first time when you should be focused on your 12th grade grades and your college applications.
#2: Build meaningful relationships and connect with your teachers, especially those in your core academic subjects. In high school, as in life, it's extremely important to have mentors and role models you can go to seek advice from. In this case, these teachers will be the ones to write your recommendation letters for college (pretty important!). You should also ask them if they are willing to write you a recommendation letter before you leave for summer vacation. That way, they have plenty of warning, you are "at the front of the line," and it's possible that they may be inclined to write the letter with more time and thought over the summer holiday. I'll do a different post on how to choose recommenders in the future.
#3 (For some): Take some or all of the SAT subject tests by the end of junior year *if* you are planning to apply to the most selective universities in the US. Not all universities require subject tests, but for those that do, you will need adequate preparation, and it is often best to take those tests at the end of the school year (June test date) that you are completing that class when the material is fresh in your mind.
#4: Finish your junior year with really strong grades. Every year of your high school grades will count when admissions officers review your transcript, but your junior year should have a rigorous course load with a strong GPA that represents your capabilities across all subjects.
#5: Plan a productive and fulfilling summer that will build on your strengths, skills, and experiences. You should not spend the entire summer studying for the SAT! Consider different options like working on college applications, essays, getting a job, an internship, travel, community service, pursuing a hobby you would like to do in college, visiting college campuses, and yes, some test prep.
#6: Try to balance between stretching and challenging yourself and knowing your own limits. Don't take on more than you can handle. For college admissions, it's not how many different activities you do, but showing clear and focused passion and commitment. Junior year is a time when you should practice prioritizing and focusing on what you need to do to succeed.
Preparing for college applications is a marathon and not a sprint, make sure to do things that are fulfilling and aligns with your long-term goals, your hard work will pay off!
