USA

General College search

EducationUSA – A great starting point for all things related to higher education in the US. Regularly hosts useful webinars.

CollegeScorecard– Lets you search and compare colleges.

College Board BigFuture – A comprehensive list of US colleges; a great place to start your research.

College Navigator – A government-run site with useful information for finding and comparing colleges.

Colleges That Change Lives and The Hidden Ivies – Resources for finding lesser-known yet high-quality institutions.

College Reviews and Student Insights

Unigo – Features comments from students and faculty, providing insights beyond brochures.

College Confidential – A forum where students discuss colleges and share experiences.

College Results Online – Offers insights into freshman-to-sophomore retention rates and graduation rates.

Niche (formerly College Prowler) – Provides rankings and student reviews for US colleges.

Program Quality & Accreditation (by field)

ABET – Search accredited computing, engineering, and technology programs.

AACSB – Directory of accredited business schools.

CCNE – Nursing program accreditation lookup.

NAAB / APA / CAHIIM – Check accreditation in architecture, psychology (doctoral), and health information programs.

Virtual College Visits

YouVisit (EAB) / CampusTours – 360° virtual tours across many US campuses.

CampusReel – Student-shot campus videos and day-in-the-life content

eCampusTours – A website that allows you to virtually visit college campuses.

Step-by-Step USA Application Process

Applying to US universities can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into clear steps makes it manageable. Follow this guide to stay organized and on track.

Step 1: Research & Categorize Universities

Start by identifying a mix of Reach, Target, and Safety schools based on your academic profile. Research universities based on academics, campus life, financial aid, and career prospects using trusted resources:

College Board BigFuture

College Navigator

Creating a spreadsheet can help track deadlines, application requirements, and platform preferences.

Step 2: Check Application Deadlines & Decision Plans

Different universities have different admissions timelines. Be aware of Early Decision (ED), Early Action (EA), Regular Decision (RD), and Rolling Admissions deadlines.
Check individual university policies to determine which application timeline is best for you. More details can be found on BigFuture’s Decision Plan Guide.

Step 3: Choose the Right Application Platform

US universities accept applications through different platforms. Select the one that applies to your chosen schools:

Common App – Used by over 900 universities.

Coalition App – Used by approximately 150 schools.

ApplyTexas – Public universities in Texas.

UC Application – University of California schools.

Cal State Apply – California State University system.

Most students apply via Common App, but check if your university requires a different platform.

Step 4: Prepare & Submit Standardized Tests (If Required)

Many universities are test-optional, but some still require standardized test scores. Check the policies of your target schools:

SAT Information – Learn about the SAT, a common admissions test for US colleges.

ACT Information – Details on the ACT, another standardized test option.

TOEFL Information – Required for non-native English speakers at many US institutions.

IELTS Information – Another widely accepted English proficiency test.**

Check university websites to see if they accept Duolingo English Test as an alternative.

Step 5: Gather Required Documents & Essays

Universities require a set of documents to assess your academic and personal profile:

High School Transcripts – Official transcripts sent by your school counselor.

SAT/ACT Scores (if required) – Sent directly by testing organizations.

Letters of Recommendation – Usually 2-3 from teachers or counselors.

Personal Statement & Supplemental Essays – The Common App essay prompts (650 words) plus additional school-specific prompts. Common App Essay Prompts

Extracurricular Activities & Resume – Highlight leadership, awards, and involvement.

Step 6: Apply for Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial aid options vary for domestic and international students:

FAFSA – Required for US Citizens & Permanent Residents.

CSS Profile – Required by many private universities.

Scholarships for International Students – Limited options through resources like NAFSA.

Additional scholarships can be found on Fastweb and Scholarships.com.

Step 7: Submit Applications & Track Status

Before submitting, review your application to ensure all materials are complete:

Check Common App / Coalition App portal for missing documents.

Follow up with recommenders to confirm letter submissions.

Look for application confirmation emails from universities.

If required, submit portfolios (for arts/music programs).

Some schools allow you to send mid-year grade reports to strengthen your application.

Step 8: Apply for Student Visa

International students must obtain a visa to study in the US. The primary visa types include:

F-1 Visa: For academic studies.​

M-1 Visa: For vocational or non-academic studies.​

Visa Application Steps:

Receive an I-20 Form from your university.

Pay the SEVIS Fee: SEVIS Payment Portal

Complete the DS-160 Visa Application Form: Apply Here

Schedule a US Embassy Visa Interview.

Step 9: Prepare for College Life

Before arriving on campus, take the necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition:

Arrange Housing – Decide between on-campus dorms or off-campus apartments.

Health Insurance – Required by most universities.

Cultural Adaptation – Understand US academic culture and classroom expectations.

Banking & Budgeting – Set up a US bank account and manage expenses.

Watching YouTube videos on “A Day in the Life of a College Student” can offer valuable insights into campus life.

Pre-Application Considerations

Holistic Application Strategy

Build an authentic extracurricular profile that aligns with personal interests and career goals.

Demonstrate leadership and initiative through independent projects, research, or community involvement.

Ensure a cohesive application narrative—essays, activities, and recommendations should support your story.

Resource: NY Post: Common Application Mistakes

Credential Evaluation

International students may need to translate and evaluate their transcripts.

Use official credential evaluation services like WES, ECE, or NACES-affiliated agencies.

Verify that evaluations align with university requirements.

Explore Alternative Pathways

Gap Year & Alternative Pathways

Some students take a gap year before attending university. Consider:

Gap year programs & volunteering opportunities

How to defer admission properly

Pros & cons of taking a gap year –  Gap Year Association

Community Colleges & Transfer Pathways

Why consider community college?

Lower tuition costs

Easier admissions requirements

2+2 Transfer Programs (Start at a community college, then transfer to a university) – Community College Review

Athletic Recruitment & NCAA Requirements

Student-athletes must register with the NCAA Eligibility Center.

How to contact college coaches and showcase sports achievements.

NCAA Eligibility Center 

National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)

Scholarships Beyond FAFSA

Merit-based, need-based, and private scholarships:

Fastweb

Scholarships.com

Going Merry

The Gates Scholarship

US Style ECA Sheet

USA Application Preliminary Checklist