Applying to US universities: The application process

Your students have done their research and have selected which US universities they want to apply to. What, then, does application to a US university usually entail?

Standardised tests

Standardised tests in university applications refer to exams that are administered and scored in a consistent manner to provide a standardised measure of a student’s academic abilities and aptitude. These tests are designed to assess skills and knowledge in areas such as mathematics, reading comprehension and writing.

Common standardised tests used in university applications include the SAT and ACT, with the former focusing on critical reading, writing and mathematics, and the latter covering English, mathematics, reading and science.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the limitations of standardised tests as a means of capturing a student’s overall academic potential. Universities have started placing more emphasis on the student’s full high-school transcript, which includes grades, coursework and overall academic performance over several years. The full transcript provides a more comprehensive view of the student’s abilities, achievements and consistency in academic performance.

Many universities now adopt a holistic approach to admissions, considering various factors, such as extracurricular activities, personal essays, recommendation letters and proven leadership skills. This shift reflects the acknowledgment that a student’s potential extends beyond a single standardised test score. While standardised tests are still important in many admissions processes, the full high-school transcript and holistic assessment of an applicant’s capabilities have gained significance in recent years.  

According to the Common App, one of the most frequently used university application portals in the US, only 4 per cent of its member colleges – numbering more than 1,000 – require a test score from applicants.

In the 2022-23 application cycle, 47 per cent of all applicants on the Common App reported scores as part of their applications. It is important to acknowledge that test-optional policies do not necessarily mean that universities are looking for test parity. In other words, being test-optional does not force an institution to admit applicants who submit scores and those who do not in equal numbers.

Should you submit a test score if a university is test-optional?

If you have achieved a high score on standardised tests like the SAT or ACT, and your score is above the average for admitted students at the university, it can strengthen your application and demonstrate your academic abilities.

If your test score aligns with the rest of your application and supports your overall academic profile, including your grades and coursework, it can provide additional evidence of your preparedness for university-level work.

Some university programmes or scholarships will have specific test score requirements. If you are applying to such a programme or seeking a merit-based scholarship that considers test scores, submitting your scores might be necessary or advantageous.

If your test scores initially reflected poorer performance, but have significantly improved over time or through retakes, that can demonstrate perseverance, growth and a commitment to academic improvement.

Ultimately, the decision to submit a test score should be based on a thoughtful evaluation of your individual circumstances, the specific requirements or expectations of the university or programme, and whether your test score adds value to your overall application.

A number of universities in the US have now reinstated the need for applicants to provide standardised test scores. These include the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Georgetown University, the entire public system in Georgia, the University of Florida, the University of Central Florida and Florida International University. There is an added caveat at Georgetown: applicants have to disclose scores for every test session they have sat.

Test-blind universities

At the other end of the spectrum, there are universities and systems with test-blind policies. This means that universities will not consider or review standardised test scores as part of the admissions process, regardless of whether applicants submit their scores. The University of California public system is a leader in this test-blind policy.

Interviews

While not all universities in the US conduct interviews as part of the application process, some do. Interview practices can vary widely, with some universities offering optional interviews, while others require or strongly recommend them. These interviews provide an opportunity for applicants to showcase their personalities, interests and experiences, and to learn more about the university. It is important for students to research and understand the interview policies of the universities they are applying to.

To prepare for university interviews, students should research the university, its programmes and its values. They should also review their application materials and be prepared to discuss their academic achievements, extracurricular activities and future goals. It’s beneficial to practise answering common interview questions and to engage in mock interviews with teachers, counsellors or family members.  

Students should also dress professionally, arrive on time and demonstrate enthusiasm and genuine interest during the interview. Being well prepared and confident can greatly enhance the chances of making a positive impression on the interviewer.  

The following universities interview applicants:  

• Harvard University  
• Yale University  
• Stanford University  
• Columbia University  
• University of Pennsylvania (through the Alumni Interview Program)  
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)  
• Princeton University (through the Princeton Optional Alumni Interview Program)  
• Dartmouth College  
• Brown University  
• University of Chicago.

It is important to note that interview policies can change over time, so it’s always recommended to check the admissions websites of the specific universities you’re interested in for the most up-to-date information regarding their interview practices. Additionally, not all interview programmes are available for every applicant or in every location, so it’s essential to review the details provided by each university to understand their specific requirements and offerings.  

Application plans  

For many students, applying to university in the US can feel like an alphabet soup, with many combinations, permutations and perceived advantages or disadvantages of the different acronyms.  

Let’s try to make sense of it all.  

Early Decision (ED)

Early Decision is a binding agreement between the student and the university. If a student applies through Early Decision and is accepted, they must withdraw all other applications and enrol in that particular university. Early Decision applications are typically due in November, and students usually receive admission decisions by mid-December. This option is ideal for students who have clear first-choice universities and are certain they want to attend if admitted.  

Early Action (EA)

Early Action is a non-binding early application plan that allows students to apply to universities and receive early-admission decisions without being committed to enrol. Early Action applications are usually due in November, and students typically receive admission decisions at some stage between mid-December and mid-February. This option provides students with the advantage of early notification while still allowing them to consider other universities and compare financial-aid packages.  

Restrictive Early Action (REA)

Restrictive Early Action is similar to Early Action, but – the clue is in the name – it comes with some restrictions. Under REA, students are allowed to apply early to public universities, but they cannot make Early Decision or Early Action applications to private institutions. REA applications are typically due in November, and admission decisions are usually released by mid-December or January.  

Single Choice Early Action (SCEA)

Single Choice Early Action is a restricted early application plan offered by some universities, including Harvard, Yale and Princeton. Students who apply through SCEA can apply early to public schools, but cannot make Early Decision or Early Action applications to private universities. SCEA applications are usually due in November, and students receive admission decisions by mid-December or January.  

It’s important to note that each university might have its own specific policies and variations of these early-application plans, so it’s essential to carefully review the guidelines and deadlines for each institution you’re considering.  

Why do so many students apply through an early plan?  

Many students believe that there is a statistical advantage to applying through an early plan. But statistics will only be on a student’s side if they have the academic record, the extracurricular and supercurricular activities and the applicant profile that universities are looking for.  

Here are some reasons why students opt for Early Decision:  

Demonstrated interest: By applying through Early Decision, students can demonstrate a strong level of interest and commitment to a particular university. This can be beneficial, especially if the university considers demonstrated interest as a factor in the admission process.  

Higher acceptance rates: Some universities tend to have higher acceptance rates for Early Decision applicants compared with their regular decision pool. This can be attributed to the fact that Early Decision applicants are typically viewed as more committed and enthusiastic about attending the university. Plus, Early Decision applicants represent a smaller proportion of the overall application pool, so there’s less competition.  

Early notification: One of the primary advantages of Early Decision is that students receive their admission decisions earlier, usually by mid-December. This allows them to have a clear understanding of their college plans sooner, and thus potentially relieve stress associated with the application process.  

While there might be some statistical advantages to Early Decision applications at certain universities, it’s crucial to carefully consider the implications before making a decision. Applying through Early Decision is a binding agreement, meaning that if students are accepted, they are obligated to enrol at that specific university and withdraw all other applications. It’s important to weigh factors such as financial considerations, the fit with the university and the ability to compare financial-aid packages before committing to Early Decision.   

Ultimately, the decision to apply through Early Decision should be based on thorough research, personal circumstances and a genuine desire to attend the specific university. It’s essential to carefully review the policies and requirements of each university to make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and preferences.  

Early Decision applicants and their counsellors sign the Early Decision agreement, reminding all parties of the terms and conditions involved. This agreement is quoted below:  

 “If the student is accepted under an Early Decision plan, the student must promptly withdraw the applications to other colleges and universities and make no additional applications to any other university in any country. If the student is an Early Decision candidate and is seeking financial aid, the student need not withdraw other applications until the student has received notification about financial aid from the admitting Early Decision institution.”