Expert: Bruce - 8/6/2006

Question
Hello..

This fall i will be starting my senior year. Unfortunately i have no clue about college application processes.

I live abroad ( the middle east) and i would like to apply to a few IVY LEAGUES in the US.

thing is :

should i apply through internet or mail?

what kind of information do i have to send about me?

when do i send it?

exactly what is required..

thanK you

sArah

Answer
Hi Sarah,

Applying to US universities should not pose too much of a problem.

Question: Are you a US citizen or permanent resident?

I'll take your questions in order;

Internet or e-mail - check the Web sites of the schools you are considering to see what advice they offer. Many colleges are preferring electronic application these days. But, I would avoid this if your internet service is at all shaky.

The most selective colleges in the US will have application deadlines, perhaps November 1 or December 1. If you are really looking at top schools, you should start ASAP going online and downloading applications or requesting that material be sent to you.

Do you attend an American school? If so, you should line up a few teachers to be recommenders for you. If you attend an international school that does not make use of an American type curriculum, you should ask the colleges you are pursuing if they require you to do anything with the transcript (e.g. have it translated).

If you are homeschooled, please let me know, as that brings in a whole other set of things to be aware of.

Colleges will want to see with your application:

essays (they will instruct on this)
recommendations
They may require an interview with an alum in your area.
Transcripts from all high schools attended
Scores on SAT or ACT exam

I assume you are a great student. Keep in mind that IVY's are very hard to get in to. So, you should have a list of real good but not IVY's that you will also apply to. These schools will also have fall deadlines.

Are you hoping to attend college in a particular region, or for a certain subject?

some great but not IVY colleges:

University of Chicago
Stanford (CA)
Northwestern ILL)
Rice  (TX)
Miami of Ohio
University of Rochester (NY)
University of Virginia
Davidson (NC)
Washington University (MO)