I want to pursue an undergraduate degree in the USA, what should I do?

There are 5 important areas that you need to focus on, to get into a great undergraduate degree program in the USA. Before we go on to the 5 areas that are needed for you to successfully get admitted, let us tell you that the underlying element is preparedness. In other words, you need to give yourself time to get to where you want to be.

Here are the 5 things you need to get placed into the right undergraduate program in a great university in the USA.

1. SAT and ACT

Most students, especially Indians, are now taking both the SAT and the ACT. The SAT is seen as more of an aptitude test while the ACT is more closely associated with understanding of high school curriculum. If you are coming from another country, taking a couple of ACT exams and getting a good score on them tells the university that you are ready for the rigours of university education in the USA.

2. Profile Building – Academic

You should have a good academic profile. But that does not just mean great scores throughout. You need to demonstrate skill in multiple areas of academics. Just having a great score in your major subjects is not enough, you need to be able to display skills in other areas as well – especially languages and other literary pursuits. Knowing a foreign language, publishing a book of stories and poems (in any language) are all important markers of academic achievement.

3. Non-academic Profile

Many students, especially from India focus on more certifications and academic pursuits but do not pay enough attention to the extra-curricular aspects of learning. Most top universities in the USA are looking for well-rounded individuals. That means you should not just be someone who excels at studying, you must also excel in life. Involving yourself in activities both long and short term – that are not purely related to academics is an area that can be a decision changer when it comes to admissions.

Wondering How to Build a Non-academic Profile?

Look for our post highlighting the 7 things you can do that will add to your proflile - and these have got nothing to do with studying more!

7 Awesome Tips

4. IELTS Scores

If you are educated in India, take the IELTS / TOEFL test as proof of English proficiency. This is something that you would need at the time of application. Plan your test date accordingly. If you have any doubts about how you might perform, take a mock test. If you are not sure about the results, simply take a fully evaluated mock IELTS test. At First Academy, we have the best training for IELTS and the best IELTS Writing Assessment to help you score a 7 band in IELTS in your first attempt.

5. Essay Preparation

Most universities require one or the other form of essays. It could be a general statement, or an answer to a specific set of questions. It is recommended that you have enough and more time to draft, craft, redraft, fine-tune, and finalise essays. Generally speaking – a well done personal statement will take about 6 months. Or else, hire a writer who can do it for you!

The Final Word

While all these are ways to improve your chances, no single aspect of your profile will truly have the ability to cement a place. It is all about how all the things you have done, and all that you are work together to present a winning picture to the admission committees.