After the ACT & SAT: A guide for international students

This post was written in collaboration with Kajol M. and amber Plus, a student-services platform.

Introduction

Applying to college in the U.S. as an international student is an exciting but involved process that requires thorough preparation and planning. As you finish your ACT or SAT exams, you’re likely starting to think ahead about leaving for college and what steps come next.

First of all, congratulations on successfully reaching this important milestone. Now, it’s time to focus on the next stage of your college journey, a stage that’s vital for shaping your future. Many students fall into the trap of procrastination or take it easy at this crucial time, not realizing that preparing and leaving for college is a process built on completing every required step along the way.

Staying on top of each step in the application process is essential if you want to attend your desired college and make the transition to undergraduate life as seamless as possible. In this blog, we will guide you on how to prepare for leaving for college after taking the ACT or SAT, and what you should get ready for as you embark on life at college.

Determine whether you have to retake the ACT/SAT test

Your first step after receiving your ACT or SAT results is to assess whether your score meets the admission requirements of your target universities. This evaluation is crucial before moving forward because you have the flexibility to take the SAT or ACT multiple times. If your current score does not align with the standards of your desired institutions, you should explore how to retake your exam and plan for upcoming SAT and ACT international test dates to improve your performance.

With each attempt, you can refine your test-taking strategy and focus on areas that need improvement. Be sure to leave enough time after any retakes to thoroughly prepare your application materials and send your finalized scores to universities.

Shortlisting universities based on your score

Now that you have your SAT/ACT results, begin the university shortlisting process. The next step is to create your final list of universities to which you plan to apply.

At the time of registering for your SAT or ACT, you may have selected four of your desired universities to send scores to free of cost. If you wish to submit your scores to more universities, you can do so even after taking the test. Based on your score, you can make a list of universities in which you have a high chance, medium chance, or low chance of getting accepted to that college.

Most universities request grades from your ninth year or first year of secondary school onwards. Before submitting your application, make sure you have your full transcript prepared. Also, make sure you send the information on your application correctly; any mistakes on your part could have consequences.

Take other required tests

For international students, most schools will request scores from English proficiency exams such as IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, or any other English test accepted by universities.

You can schedule these English language tests at your convenience. However, it is highly recommended to take these tests well in advance to ensure you receive your results before university application deadlines. Properly aligning your English proficiency exams with ACT or SAT international test dates will help streamline your application process and improve your chances of meeting all university requirements.

SOP (Statement of purpose) & LOR (Letter of Recommendation)

A statement of purpose is a crucial document that introduces you to the university, highlighting your academic goals, accomplishments, and both your professional and personal attributes. The statement of purpose allows universities to evaluate your fit for their programs and plays a crucial role in the selection process. Therefore, after completing your admissions exams, you should focus on crafting a compelling statement of purpose.

When it comes to how many letters of recommendation for college applications are needed, most universities request two or three. A letter of recommendation is written by your mentors or professors and should clearly reflect your character, achievements, and potential as a student. Obtaining strong letters of recommendation from the right individuals can significantly enhance your application and increase your chances of being accepted by the university. Don’t overlook this important step if you want to maximize your opportunities for admission.

After selecting & converting the college

Once you’ve received your offer letter, it’s time to move forward with essential logistics as part of your international student journey. Following these international student tips will help ensure a smooth transition and demonstrate your preparedness, much like you did when preparing your statement of purpose:

• Make sure your passport and student visa are valid and up-to-date, as these are crucial documents for all international students.
• Arrange your bank statements and financial documentation, which are often required alongside your statement of purpose during the admissions process.
• Confirm the status of your education loan or scholarship, if applicable, as financial planning is a key international student tip.

By following these international student tips and staying organized with all necessary documents, you can avoid complications later on.

Relocation for international students

After these steps, you’re ready to start leaving for college. This is a major milestone for any student, especially those relocating internationally. As part of essential international student tips, consider your accommodation options early. Most colleges in the US offer on-campus housing, which can be convenient for new students. Alternatively, you can explore off-campus student housing near your university for more flexibility and independence.

To simplify your move, look into dedicated student accommodations that cater specifically to the needs of international students. Services like Amber Plus packages provide valuable international student tips by assisting with airport transfers, opening student bank accounts, setting up SIM cards, and more. Leveraging these resources can make the move and transition to college much smoother.

Conclusion

From shortlisting colleges to preparing essential documents like letters of recommendation and travel forms, every step is crucial as you move closer to your dream institution. For international students, it’s important to pay attention to details: following the tips above can help avoid common mistakes such as submitting incomplete applications or missing document deadlines.

Though it might seem rare, many students overlook key application materials, resulting in unnecessary stress. Stay organized and proactive throughout this process, ensuring you’re ahead in gathering all documentation and completing steps on time for a smooth transition when leaving for college.

How can amber help you?

amber helps you secure ideal student accommodation on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), amber is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs. Download the amber app from the Google Play Store or App Store to book an affordable home for your adventure.