To ensure that the application process to the universities and colleges of your choice is a smooth and successful one, we recommend the following:
1. Do Your Research
a. Limit the colleges to which you will apply based on academic strengths, interests, and preferences in terms of geographical area, climate, campus type, size and diversity of student body, range of activities, etc.
b. Complete a detailed investigation into what the college admissions committee will be looking for during the application process, e.g. documents, standardized test scores, etc.
c. Investigate deadlines. Application deadlines vary greatly from one university to another, and even between programs within the same university. Some universities may have separate deadlines for international students. Do your research carefully. Please note- university application deadlines are non-negotiable!
d. Create a table of universities, requirements and deadlines to ensure that, come the fall of your senior year, nothing is missed.
2. Plan Ahead
a. Work towards meeting the expectations of the university: If the university you aspire to attend is highly selective and places a strong emphasis on academic excellence, it is important to put in the effort and work hard. If the university you desire prioritizes extracurricular activities, now is the time to become involved in those activities. If a portfolio is required as part of the application, it is crucial to begin creating one immediately.
b. Make contact with the admissions office of the universities you are interested in. Send an email expressing your interest in the college, and request a brochure or information packet. Inquire about specific programs or majors, and ask any questions you may have. Admissions officers are more likely to favorably consider students who have shown previous interest in their schools and with whom they have had prior contact.
c. Begin considering the following questions: i. How can I make my application stand out? ii. Whom should I approach to write my letters of recommendation? iii. What should be the central focus of my Personal Essay?
d. Take the opportunity to visit as many universities as possible throughout your high school years. While university websites and written materials offer valuable information, nothing compares to a campus visit in order to truly experience the atmosphere and environment of a potential school.
3. Know What to Expect – General Requirements
Depending on the school, and the program, to which you are applying, universities will generally ask for a combination of any of the below:
a. Official school transcripts
b. Grade twelve grades (up to time of application)
c. Standardized test scores
TOEFL/IELTS
SAT Reasoning Test
ACT
d. Recommendation letters from teachers, counselors and/or Heads of Department
e. Personal Statement
f. Application Essay (topic will vary among universities)
g. Interview
h. Proof of involvement in extra-curricular activities
i. Portfolio
j. Audition
4. Tips to Avoid Disappointments!
a. HAVE A BACK UP PLAN!! Many students become so focused on a specific university or program that they forget to create a backup plan in case they don’t get in. Be proactive and think about what other programs or colleges you would still find satisfying if your dream option doesn’t work out. Apply to enough “safe” programs or colleges to increase your chances of acceptance.
b. AVOID PANIC!! Do not wait until the last minute to complete your college application. Start working on your college essay, portfolio, and gathering letters of recommendation early so that you have everything ready ahead of time.
c. GET ORGANIZED!! Different colleges have different admissions requirements. Create a table or some kind of system to help you keep track of what documents you need to send to each college.
d. MEET THE DEADLINES!! COLLEGE DEADLINES ARE NON-NEGOTIABLE!! You have worked hard, maintained good grades, and followed the guidance of your college counselor. The last thing you want is to jeopardize your chances of acceptance due to a missed deadline.
ENJOY THE PROCESS!! While the process of choosing the right career or college may seem complex, it is also a valuable opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. Embrace the experience and look forward to what lies ahead!