Study Abroad: Getting ready for the college admission process

Many students who aspire to study abroad believe they need to start planning for it only in Grade 12. But college applications require a lot of time, thought, and effort. High school students who are determined to pursue their studies abroad should aim to begin the groundwork as early as Grades 9/10. Starting early gives students and their parents a clear understanding of what the college application process entails, and prepares them to deal with the entire process without getting stressed or overwhelmed. Students can create an action plan for themselves spanning Grades 9-12, and approach the college admission process systematically.

What can students do in Grades 9/10 to prepare themselves for the ride ahead?

Maintain Focus on School Grades

Many students believe that only their ‘Board’ results or Grade 12 academics matter. There couldn’t be a bigger myth. Universities look at a student’s academic transcripts of 4 years (9-12), if not longer. It is important to never lose sight of this, and try your best to perform well in academics throughout high school, not just in Grade 12.

Reflect Internally

Students should try and gain a better understanding of themselves – their interests, skills, limitations, and aspirations. An understanding of oneself can help students choose projects and activities sensibly as they begin thinking about building their profile. Understanding oneself is also required to help write meaningful essays.

Start Building Your Profile

Universities abroad don’t just focus on academics. Your experiences and achievements beyond studies – in school and outside – are important, as they help admission officers gain insights into who you are as a person. Some students believe they need a long list of extra-curricular activities to strengthen their application, but this is a myth. Instead, you should involve yourself deeply in a small number of activities or projects for a long period of time (a sport, the arts, writing, research, community work etc.). You should have created an impact in whatever it is you choose to do - climbed to a leadership position, grown as a person, developed some skills etc. You can’t suddenly pick something in Grade 12 and claim it’s your passion. This looks superficial and probably is.

Begin Exploring Your Options

Start researching to understand your options. Which country do you want to apply to colleges in? Understand how the experience differs between countries – USA vs. UK vs. Singapore, and so on. Attend college fairs, and learn about different universities from your seniors, friends, and family who’ve been through the experience before. Doing your homework early will make the entire college shortlisting process less daunting in Grade 12.

Develop Reading and Writing Skills

Being able to write well, read through large volumes of information and derive sense, and carry out research, are crucial skills needed at university. Develop these habits when you’re younger and it will be of tremendous help to you in your applications, and also in college and life. Make it a habit to read books and the news.

Prepare for Test-Taking

Standardised tests (such as the SAT) are an important part of your application. While students typically take these tests in Grades 11/12, they can start preparing for standardised tests earlier through options such as the PSAT (Preliminary SAT), a test conducted by the College Board, makers of SAT. By taking the PSAT in Grade 9/10, students get a real sense of what the SAT is. The PSAT Score Report gives students detailed feedback on their skill gaps - by identifying weaknesses early, students understand what they need to work on most. The PSAT also gives students free access to My College QuickStart, a free web-based college planning tool.

Then, in Grade 11…

Take Your Tests

Students should take their standardised tests (such as SAT) in Grade 11. This way, if you need to retake, you still have time for it later. Also, it helps reduce the burden in Grade 12. If the universities you plan to apply to require other tests, such as SAT Subject Tests, you can consider completing these at the end of Grade 11, or early on in Grade 12.

Think About What You Want to Study

Some students know exactly what they want to study at college, while others are confused. It is normal to be confused, with so many options at your disposal, so don’t panic if you are a bit lost. Start reflecting internally on what you enjoy learning about, as this might determine which colleges you apply to. If you plan to pursue your studies in the US, most colleges don’t expect you to declare a major in the first year – you can study various subjects and decide your major later.

Begin Thinking about what Best-Fit Means to You

Determine which factors will determine your choice of colleges. Is it the location, or the university’s rank in your chosen course? Are financial aid and scholarships an important factor for you, or are you looking at a college where you can pursue a particular sport seriously? Every student is influenced by different factors when choosing universities. Don’t blindly look at rankings; instead, shortlist 10-12 universities that meet ‘your’ needs. If you must look at rankings, check the university’s rank in the course/major you want to pursue, and not an overall ranking.

And Finally, in Grade 12

All the groundwork you do through Grades 9-11 will pay off in Grade 12. You’ll feel more prepared, and less overwhelmed. So now, in the final year of high school, you should:

• Attend college fairs, visit university websites, and understand individual university requirements, application deadlines etc. If applying to the U.S., decide if you’re applying ED (Early Decision)/EA (Early Action) to any university, and create a working timeline for yourself.
• Work with a college counselor and parents to finalize the list of 8-10 colleges you will apply to.
• Essays – Writing essays take time, and there are many to write. All the profile building will help you come up with good content. Give yourself a few months to perfect your essays. Start early with your drafts, get feedback, and keep improving till you’re happy with the final outcome.
• Put it all together – Fill in your applications, get your letters of recommendation, finish your financial aid documents and anything else the universities require.

College applications require discipline, hard work, and effort. Making sure that you have a plan to tackle every component, and having a support system to help you through the process, will make the process easier for you. And if you do everything at the right time, you will find the process enjoyable and realize there is no reason to stress.