Institutions in the US would look at applications holistically. What this means is that institutions usually do not just focus on one aspect of the application requirements, but they choose to consider all the aspects. What the institutions look for in diversity and consistency. Diversity as in how much is a student willing to try his/her hand e.g.: working on various projects, internships, work experience (handling various responsibilities), and extracurricular activities.
Consistency in academics and standardised testing. for e.g.: someone doing very well just in academics (has a really good GPA) and has not participated in extracurriculars, contributed to community service, or has not done well in standardised tests may not be a successful applicant.
Let’s understand and discuss some important aspects that could make your application more effective:
1. Grade point average (GPA): US universities assess your scholastic abilities by GPA (Grade Point Average) as there is no official grading system to choose from or regulatory bodies to administer the student evaluation method. Most commonly, institutions follow a four-point grading system, where you are graded on a scale of 0 to 4, with 4 being the maximum.
Most universities would define a minimum GPA requirement for specific programs. If you are applying for UG admission, the university may consider your scores from the 9th std onwards. If you are at PG application the university would look at your latest qualification i.e. and bachelor’s or a master’s degree.
So, it is important to understand the GPA requirements of your dream institution and start working accordingly well in advance.
2. English Language Proficiency: Though English is one of the most commonly used languages in India nowadays, India is still not considered an English-speaking country. Because of this Indian students have to prove their English language proficiency to US institutions for admission purposes. The institutions would just like to understand how good the candidate’s understanding of the English Language in terms of reading is, writing, listening, and speaking. Most universities have a minimum requirement in tests like IELTS that a candidate has to fulfil. So, it is important to understand the IELTS requirements of your dream institution and start working accordingly well in advance.
3. Standardised testing scores in exams like SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT: Just like the academic scores, common standardised testing exams like SAT ACT and GRE or GMAT also play an important role in admission decisions. Some universities would specify a minimum range of scores acceptable for their respective courses. However, some institutions would not specify a min range of scores but would like to complete a holistic review of a student’s academic or professional journey.
4. For UG application, universities require SAT or ACT scores: If you are a PG applicant, please consider preparing for GMAT in case you are looking for Business and Management courses or GRE in case you are applying for tech or Engineering related courses. However, some institutions may accept GRE in Lieu of the GMAT and vice versa.
Note: Standardised testing is not the sole criteria for admissions, the university would look at apps holistically.
5. Essays and Statement of Purpose (SOP): At the UG level, most institutions would have predefined essay topics to choose from. These have to be answered by the student within the specified word limit. Additionally, there could be more university-specific short questions for the student to answer. Some of these essays may also present you with an opportunity to discuss aspects of your academic journey that may not have been mentioned elsewhere.
At the PG level, some institutions may need specific essays for specialised courses like MBA and other MS courses as well. These may or may not have a predefined topic or word limit. Some institutions may also require you to submit a video essay as well.
6. Statement of purpose (SOP): The Statement of Purpose is an opportunity given to UG/PG students to represent themselves in front of the admissions committee. Your SOP to study in the US is a personal essay that covers academic history, professional background, and reasons why you want to take admission to your selected US university. You must submit a good SOP since it is an important consideration for the admission committee.
7. Letter of Recommendation (LOR): It’s compulsory to submit a LOR when applying for admission at any study level in a US institution. Depending on the course and institution, you might be asked to submit two to three LORs (academic or professional based on your background and choice of the program).Up to 3 Letters may be required, based on the university and course you have chosen to apply.
It is important to submit an effective application for admissions to US universities. The US institutions hold a very good reputation globally. The institutions receive applications from all across the globe. Making the institutions very competitive. Due to this competitive nature of admissions, it is important that your application is the best and is submitted on time with all the required documents so as to avoid any delays. For any assistance in filling up the admission forms, you can get in touch with the international education experts at IDP who can help you in the entire process.
