Applying to US Colleges as an Expat

While expat students are not considered international, there are a few additional factors to take into consideration as you apply. Below are a few tips to help you submit successful applications as an expat.

High School Curriculum and Grades

If you attend a non-American school, you need to be sure that the college understands your grading scale and curriculum. If your transcripts are not in English, you will need an English translation from a reputable or official translator (requirements vary by school). It is recommended to include a key to the grading scale with your translation. Typically, admissions offices have staff which are familiar with the various international curricula, but even if they aren’t, most will review the student’s application holistically without full grade and course conversions.

Your high school counselor or another school official can also prepare a school profile which is a great resource to provide colleges with an overview of the school. It typically includes information about the curriculum, graduation requirements, exams, grading system, demographics and class sizes, and any other important information that would help give general context of the school. This profile can be shared with all colleges the student applies to and should be written in English.

Proof of English Proficiency

Even if a student has a US passport, if English is not their native language or the language of the school they have attended, they will need to provide proof of proficiency. These requirements vary by college, but typically one of the standard tests such as TOEFL, Duolingo, or IELTS will be necessary. Students should familiarize themselves with the format of the test and do a bit of practice even if they are proficient in English. Luckily, these tests can be taken online at home. Although it may seem unnecessary, some schools require an English proficienty test even from expats attending English speaking schools. It is best to plan on taking one of the tests well before you apply to avoid last minute surprises!

Testing

Although testing is currently optional for admission to many colleges, getting a good score can still help you and give colleges another way to evaluate you, especially if you are attending a high school with a curriculum less familiar to them. Many international high schools offer the PSAT and SAT and/or ACT. If you attend a school which does not offer the tests or dates which fit your schedule, you will need to look elsewhere. This will take planning ahead as the locations and test dates vary and you should register for your spot early. Search the College Board website for upcoming SAT dates and locations near you and the ACT website for ACT dates and locations. Note that the ACT is only offered digitally at international testing locations while it is still available in paper format in the US. The SAT has gone digital everywhere.

Timeline

It is important for students to begin their application process early. In contrast to many colleges abroad, US colleges have application deadlines as early as November of the student’s senior year. Students should take the time to familiarize themselves with the requirements for each of the schools they are interested in applying to well before then. Also, students who will need standardized testing should plan well in advance to give themselves time to register for the tests, prepare well and possibly retake them. Visiting colleges in the US from abroad may not be possible during the school year, so families should plan these in to their summer and longer breaks if possible. The college planning process should really begin by 10th grade at the latest so that students have time to explore their options and prepare well.  

Check out the other posts in our expat series for more tips regarding financial aid and application status for American expats applying to US colleges.

Are Expats Considered International Students?

Not a simple answer

There is no simple answer as you are considered a citizen but often read as international. At most colleges, your application will be read by the international admission team as they as they are responsible for your region and often more familiar with the school curricula and other aspects related to student life in that area. It makes sense that your application would be read in the context of where you are attending school. You would be compared more to the students in your region. However, when it comes down to choosing an expat vs a true international student, you often have the advantage as you are eligible for federal aid and do not have the burden of providing proof of finances.

Although you are not an ‘international student’, you have the benefit of the international experience and hopefully language skills you have gained while living outside of the US. These are great assets to highlight in your applications. How has your international experience shaped you? What can you bring from this to your future campus? I help guide my students to focus on and add activities to their resume which will enhance their application and demonstrate their uniqueness. We also find creative ways to include these international experiences in their essays.   

Our next post in our expat series focuses on how to apply for financial aid as a US expat.

Guide to English Proficiency Tests for College Applications

English proficiency tests could be an application requirement if you are an international student, non-native English speaker or attending a school which is not in English and/or in an English-speaking country. With several options available, it's important to understand the different tests and admissions requirements. In this guide, we'll give you a quick breakdown of what you need to know about English proficiency tests for college applications.

1. Understanding the Importance of English Proficiency Tests: English proficiency tests are a way for colleges and universities to assess a student’s ability to succeed in an English-speaking academic environment. These tests evaluate reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Even if you have taken an SAT, hold a passport to an English speaking country, or have attended a school with some coursework in English, colleges need a way to more thoroughly evaluate your English proficiency before offering you an acceptance and may require an English test.

2. Researching English Proficiency Requirements:  As you are planning your college applications, it is important to research the policies at each of your colleges and allow time to meet testing requirements before your application deadlines. The requirements vary significantly by college and the student’s background. For example, one college may require test scores from an American student at a bilingual school abroad, while another may not. One college may accept any of the six English proficiency tests listed below, while another may only accept a few of them. Some colleges accept the TOEFL iBT home version while others only accept the TOEFL taken at a test center. Do your research to avoid missing an important part of your application and having to take a last- minute test. Also, while many colleges do not have minimum test scores required, they often publish preferred scores. Take a look at those as you prepare for your tests and evaluate your scores.

3. English Proficiency Tests for College Applications:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): This is the most common English test taken for US college admissions with more than 90% of US colleges accepting it and many international universities too. The TOEFL assesses English proficiency through reading, listening, speaking, and writing sections. There is an in-person option at official test centers and a home version. It is only available as a computer based test. The speaking section is done via recording various responses with a microphone. The test now takes less than 2 hours and results are usually available within 2 weeks. Tests are scored through a combination of a computer and examiner.

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): IELTS is a UK based test, but accepted by more than 3,000 colleges in the US. It is the second most common English proficiency test submitted to US colleges. IELTS evaluates language proficiency through listening, reading, writing, and speaking components. The Academic version is primarily available at official test centers, but is available in some regions as a home version as well. It is available on paper and computer. The Speaking section is completed separately with a trained IELTS examiner. The total test time is around 2 hours 45 min and results are usually available in 2 weeks. Tests are scored through a combination of a computer and examiner.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): PTE Academic is a computer-based English proficiency test accepted by more than 1200 US colleges. It assesses speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills and provides rapid results (usually within 48 hours). The speaking section is done via recording various responses with a microphone. It can only be taken at official test centers and total test time is under 2 hours. Tests are scored entirely via computer.

• Duolingo English Test: Emerging as a popular alternative due to the flexibility of taking the test online at any time, the Duolingo English Test evaluates language proficiency through an adaptive computer-based format. It is now accepted by more than 1700 US colleges. It assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills and is accepted by an increasing number of colleges. The testing session is recorded and verified by a Duolingo proctor then scored by a computer and the results are available within 48 hours. Total test time is one hour.

•  iTEP (International Test of English Proficiency): Also chosen because of its flexibility with on-demand testing and quick score turnaround, iTEP offers a comprehensive assessment of reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. It is currently accepted by more than 300 colleges in the US. It is available in-person or at home. The speaking and writing sections are graded by humans. The test takes 90 minutes and scores are available within 24 hours.

• Cambridge:  Accepted by more than 100 US colleges, the Cambridge exams are the longest and most thorough. Cambridge English exams are available at testing locations around the world and can be taken on paper or computer. Students must choose which level of test they will take, but typically only the C1 or C2 are accepted for university admission. The Speaking section is taken face to face with an examiner. The tests take approximately 4 hours and results are available in 2-3 weeks.

4. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Test:

• College Requirements: Research the English proficiency requirements of the colleges and universities you're applying to and choose a test that meets their criteria.

• Test Format: Consider your preferences and strengths when selecting between test center and home-based tests. Also consider the format of the test. Do you prefer recording your own answers or speaking with a human? Do you prefer a paper-based test or computer? Although paper is less common, it is still available for some tests.

• Accessibility and Convenience: Choose a test that is widely available in your region and offers convenient test dates and locations. Some tests are not available in certain regions at all. Also consider that some tests require reserving your spot weeks or even months in advance.

• Timing:  Consider how long the test results take and how much time it takes to get those results sent to colleges. Do you plan on taking the test more than once? It is not possible to retake some of the tests within a short timeframe. Take a look at your college application timeline and consider how much time you need to have your scores available by application deadlines. Also remember that test scores are only valid for a certain amount of time depending on which test you take and which college you are applying to.

5. Preparation for English Proficiency Tests:

• Familiarize yourself with the test format, structure, and question types before test day.

• Make use of free test prep materials provided by most of the testing companies themselves.

• Consider getting additional tutoring or test prep help if needed.

Do your research and plan ahead! Selecting the right English proficiency test and adequately preparing for it are important steps in your college application journey. Contact us for guidance on mapping out your college plan and deciding which test is right for you.

How to Apply for Financial Aid in the US as an International Student

Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students seeking quality education and diverse experiences. However, the cost of attending a U.S. university can be a significant barrier for students no matter where they are from. In this blog post, we'll explore the process of applying for financial aid as an international student at U.S. universities.

Understanding Financial Aid Options

Before diving into the application process, it's important to understand the types of financial aid available for international students:

1.    Institutional Aid:  Aid which comes from the university itself, more common with private universities

Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on academic, athletic, artistic, or other achievements. They may cover part or all of tuition costs. Often, they do not require a separate application and are awarded based on the student’s general application for admission. These are VERY competitive and not offered by some top universities such as the Ivy League institutions.

Need-Based Aid: While international students are not eligible for federal financial aid in the US, many universities offer need-based aid to international students. This aid can come in the form of scholarships and grants which do not have to be repaid. This aid requires some form of application including details on the family’s income and financial resources.

2.     External Scholarships and Grants: There are numerous external organizations, foundations, and governments that offer scholarships and grants to international students studying in the U.S. These can be based on academic merit, field of study, country of origin, or other criteria.

Applying for Financial Aid

The application and policy for institutional aid varies significantly by university. Some universities do not offer need-based aid to international students at all, others such as Columbia or UChicago meet 100% of demonstrated need, and some colleges may offer both need and merit aid. It is important to thoroughly research the policies and requirements for each college before making the decision to apply there.

Colleges which offer need-based aid to international students will require the submission of either the CSS Profile, International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA) or their own version of a financial aid application. This financial aid form is due with or shortly after the application for admission. These forms require information about the family income, assets and expenses. You will usually be required to upload proof such as tax returns and income statements translated to English in order to complete the applications. Begin working on these applications early enough to gather the required documents well ahead of the stated deadlines.

It is common policy that if a student does not apply for financial aid for their first year, they are ineligible for need-based aid for the following years. So if your family truly needs aid, make sure you complete all forms accurately and ON TIME before the student’s first year of college.

Important Questions to Consider

1.     Will applying for aid affect your chances of admission?

2.     Are there other colleges which would give you more aid?

3.     Are there other colleges which are great fits and cost less overall?

4.     Can students get a job and and/or manage a job while attending college?

While the cost of studying in the U.S. can be daunting for international students, there are various financial aid options available to help make education more accessible. By researching opportunities, preparing strong applications, and staying persistent, you can increase your chances of receiving the financial support you need. This is an important issue I help my students and their families navigate as we work together on their college search and applications. If you have questions about applying to US colleges as an international student, schedule a free intro meeting with me.

The new Digital SAT

Big news in the college admissions world recently was that the SAT will be moving to 100% digital testing in the future. They will begin with it internationally in Spring 2023 then continue with the Fall 2023 PSAT both in the US and abroad; by Spring 2024 it will be digital in all locations for both PSAT and SAT.

The test is still required to be taken at a school or official test center. However, the possibility of more test dates and flexibility in test centers scheduling them may make it easier for students to find a test date that fits their schedule and location. For international students, this could make a big difference as their previous test dates and locations were more limited.

Students can bring their own tablets or laptops or they can use those provided at the test site. Graphing calculators will also be built in to the test, so students who feel comfortable using those can leave their own at home. Students will still be provided scratch paper and can use a pen/pencil to work on solutions as needed.

A major difference to be discussed is the difference in the questions students will get. Gone are the days when test centers will be mailed packages of the same test for one test date. Now, students will face different sets of questions based on the accuracy of how they answered previous sections. This will help eliminate the possibility of the hard copy tests being compromised and students copying answers from their neighbors, but the security of the digital versions will also surely be an issue. It will be interesting for us outsiders to see how the tests are scored and scaled when students take different levels of difficulty.

Current 9th graders may not want to take the PSAT 10 in 2023 as it will still be on paper and they would then be taking the digital version of the PSAT/SAT the following Fall 2023. College Board has announced prep materials for the new digital SAT will be available via their Khan Academy Fall 2022. We will see how soon other test prep companies adapt to the changes and offer new prep materials.

With more than 75% of colleges and universities in the US currently test-optional or test-blind, it will be interesting to see how students and colleges adapt to these changes.

 Additional Resources

https://newsroom.collegeboard.org/digital-sat-brings-student-friendly-changes-test-experience

https://www.compassprep.com/digital_sat/

How to Apply to German Universities

Applying to University in Germany

Over the last few years, the number of international students choosing to study in Germany has grown to over 380,000. With most public universities extending free tuition even to international students, the low cost alone is a big draw. In addition, the safety of the country, availability of programs in English, opportunity for an international experience and easy travel within Europe, ability to work as a student and get an extended visa post study, and the high-quality education offered are major reasons international students are interested in attending university in Germany.

How much does it cost?

Public universities other than those in the German state of Baden-Wurttemberg are free for both EU citizens and other international students. Students will need to calculate 700-1000 Euros/month for living expenses in addition to an administrative fee of 300-400 Euros/semester. This often includes public transportation for the semester. In Baden-Wurttemberg, public tuition for non-EU citizens is 1500 Euros/semester. Private universities costs can amount to up to 30,000 Euros depending on the school.

How to Apply

As with other countries, applying to university in Germany as an international and non-EU student is a bit different than for citizens. Unfortunately, there is not one streamlined process as it varies by school and program of choice. 170 universities use the central system, uni-assist, to process the documents and applications of international students. Students typically apply via the program and mail certified copies of their application documents to the system to be processed. They are then verified through the program and the results forwarded to the universities. Other universities use the platform solely for verifying the documents and then require the students to submit a separate application to the school itself (a process known as VPD – preliminary review documentation). Programs such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine and pharmacy have a nationwide limit (Numerus Clausus). Many other programs of study have a regional or university limit. Universities may have additional criteria such as entrance tests, portfolios, or recommendation letters materials in addition to the general requirements. Whatever the program of study and university may be, it is very important to follow the instructions given by the university on how to apply with your specific background.

Students can typically start during summer (March) or winter (September) semesters. Application periods are usually early May to July 15th for the winter semester and early December to January 15th for the summer semester.

Hamburg, a popular student city

The General Application Requirements for international students:

• Certified copies of high school diploma/leaving certificate also known as the university entrance qualification (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung)*

  • Not all diplomas and leaving certificates are eligible for direct entry to a university or to some programs. To find out how yours will be evaluated, use the search tool on Uni-Assist and Anabin.

• If your country requires the passing of an exam to enter university, provide a certified copy and translation of results.*

• Copy of all transcripts/overview of subjects taken and grades*

• Proof of language proficiency – level of German and English required varies by university, check their criteria individually. Proof of proficiency can be shown in several ways.

  • German proficiency can be proven via the DSH test (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang) which is given at universities, TestDaF (German test for non-native speakers) given at various test centers around the world, the Deutsches Sprachdiplom or certificates from the Goethe-Institut.

  • English proficiency can be proven via the IELTS or TOEFL examination, graduation from an English speaking school (only in certain countries), Cambridge English Language Certificates, and sometimes but rarely, having taken English as a subject in school.

• Application fees – if applying via Uni-Assist, the fees are 75 Euros for the first application and 30 Euros for each additional. This includes each subject applied for.

*These documents must be in English or German, if they are not, you will need to provide certified translations of the certified copies. For detailed information on the certification and translations of documents, check out uni-assist. Confirm document language requirements with the universities.

German University Prep Course (Studienkolleg)

Students who do not meet the standards for direct entry to a university or a particular program of interest are recommended to apply to the Studienkolleg. Studienkolleg is a 2 semester college prep program which concludes in an exam to test the student’s levels of German and Math for university entry (Festellungsprüfung). The Studienkolleg is offered at many public universities, universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschule) and private schools and students can choose to take specialized courses depending on what they want to study in university. The cost of these programs is typically 100-400 Euros/semester for public programs and can be more for private. Students need to calculate an additional 700-900 Euros/month for living expenses. Application for Studenkolleg can be done via the uni-assist page or the school itself. Spaces are limited and students typically need a German level of at least B1 to apply.

Visa Requirements

Visa requirements vary by citizenship. Citizens of the EU, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Iceland can enter the country using a valid ID card and register as residents after finding accommodation. Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Israel and several other countries can enter the country without a visa, but will need to apply for a residence permit as they are only permitted to stay for 3 months without one. Seek advice from the German embassy or consulate in your country to get exact details on visa requirements.

If you require a visa to enter the country, you must apply for a student visa or prospective student visa before leaving your country. The documents you will most likely need are:

• Passport valid for time of stay

• Health insurance coverage certificate

  • Public health systems from various countries will cover a student while studying in Germany. If not, the student will need to find insurance valid in Germany which can be from a company in another country or a public company in Germany. For verification of which insurances are valid, contact the university directly.

• Proof of financial resources

  • As of January 1, 2021 students are required to have proof of a minimum of 10,332 Euros for one year of study in Germany. There are various ways to demonstrate this such as proof of income of parents, documentation of someone in Germany who will assist you financially if needed, receipt of scholarships and/or banking statements. The best way to establish proof is to allocate this amount in a separate ‘locked’ account through a German bank which will not be available to use until your arrival in Germany (Sperrkonto).

• Either a university entrance qualification recognized in Germany (can be provided through Uni-Assist for prospective student status) or letter of acceptance from German university (for student visa)

• Certificate of language proficiency, German and/or English depending on program of study

While it may seem overwhelming to put together an application to study in a foreign country, there are many great resources available to help. Remember, the international student office at each university will be the most reliable source of information and place to get your questions answered. Start early to give yourself time to research requirements, form a solid list of universities and programs of interest, gather all of the documents needed and get them processed.

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Additional Resources:

https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/

https://www.hochschulkompass.de/en/

https://www.uni-assist.de/en/tools/uni-assist-universities/

https://www.studying-in-germany.org/why-is-germany-the-perfect-place-to-study-abroad/