Because of the work and the costs involved in putting together a good application, most students limit their applications to between four and seven colleges. However, you can request information from as many universities as you like, keeping in mind any postage costs you may have to pay.
Address your requests for information to the Office of International Undergraduate Admissions. Be brief and clear. Be sure to include the full zip (postal) code for the institution on the envelope. You may also send these inquiries by e-mail.
• Your secondary school diploma or examination results that you have obtained or that you will obtain;
• Any post-secondary study you have undertaken (if applicable);
• The degree and subject you would like to major in and the proposed starting date;
• How you expect to finance your studies. If you need financial assistance from the university;
• Results of TOEFL, SAT, and any other admissions tests, if already taken.
Once you have received the information, read everything thoroughly. Most schools require similar information, but they may ask for it in different ways.
Check the school's application form, Web site, or catalog for the current cost.
This standardized application form is available on the Web and is used by over 130 colleges and universities. You can make as many copies as you need and send them to as many participating institutions as you wish. Each form lists participating colleges and universities with their address and admissions information.
If you plan to begin studies in September, you should hear from the colleges you applied to by mid-April of that year. Schools that offered you admission may ask you to send in a deposit if you wish to accept their offer. If you receive more than one offer of acceptance, write to the colleges you turn down so that they can make offers to those students still on waiting list. Colleges usually send information on housing, health insurance, and orientation at this point.
