When it comes to applying for college, what do you really need to get the process started? No matter where you are planning on studying or what you hope you study, the process for applying for college is fairly similar. Here is our guide to college prep 101.
1. High School Transcript
To verify your education meets the standards for college entry, every college and university will require an official form of proof of attaining a high school education. For different countries, a translation of one's transcript may be required depending on where you are from and where you intend to study. In addition, different countries hold different academic programs to different standards. If you have taken any AP, IB, CAPE, or college-entry equivalent courses, be sure to check how they transfer to your school of choice. Note for specific majors, especially in STEM, it is important to verify your academic program meets the standard for entry. If you have taken a business package stream and wish to apply for a STEM college degree, you may require additional courses in math and science to attain admittance.
2. Recommendation Letter (1-2)
As part of your application package, some institutions may ask for a letter of recommendation. Usually, letters from teachers or employers are sufficient, so it is vital that you work to develop a strong relationship with a teacher or employer to request a letter during your admissions prep process. It is advisable to ask at least 1-2 people and to give your requestee ample time to create the letter of recommendation. It can help if you give your requestee a run-down of your achievements and the intent with the letter. As part of your application process, it is important you track and ensure your letters of recommendation are submitted in a timely fashion as to not impact your admissions process.
3. Standardized Test Scores
Depending on where you plan to study, the education system of that country may require standardized testing as a method to gauge your academic intellect. If you plan on studying in the US, taking the SAT and ACT exams is a tradition for college admissions. Check for testing dates in your area. Standardized testing should not be taken lightly as your scores significantly impact your chances of admissions at the school of your choice. It is recommended to prepare and take these exams anywhere from 1-3 times. If you plan on studying in the Netherlands, standardized testing may not be required, but AP or college-entry equivalent courses may be required for your program. If you are studying outside of your home country, it is key to check on what admissions requirements are standard for the schools of your choice. If you are applying from a country whose official language is not English, you may be required to take an English proficiency test like the TOEFL.
The Application Process
Though the application process may differ based on location and the specific school, usually most institutions will require a formal application for admission to either a school or college at their institution. Many countries have a centralized application platform from which to apply to a variety of schools. In the US, this is known as the Common App, in the UK, it is referred to as UCAS, and in the NL, Studielink. This centralized application platform allows you to apply to many schools at once, uploading documents to one location, and reducing the number of essay questions required to apply. Smaller or independent schools may have a private application system, with their own set of unique essay questions, so be sure to check with your school's admissions resources on what method of application is preferred.
Note applying to colleges does come at a cost. Each school does require an application fee, so it is helpful to know which schools you want to apply to, but also which are likely to accept your application.
If you have any questions or are unsure about the college application process, reach out to a member of our team @ connect.empoweru@gmail.com
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