Checklist for International Students

Non-American students applying to American private schools have to comply with several additional requirements besides the usual applications documentation and procedures. This checklist for international students will help you stay organized throughout the complicated process. Most private schools which accept international students give clear instructions about their admissions procedures. They also will be happy to answer your questions.

Every international student needs to apply for a student visa. This is a major process which requires plenty of time before your travel dates to work through. Just getting an appointment at the U.S. Consulate in your city can be a chore. Appointments are frequently booked many weeks in advance during peak travel periods. Do not leave your visa application to the last minute.

The following items are fairly typical of the sort of thing most schools will have on their international students' checklists:

Application Form

The application forms and documentation must be submitted by the required deadline. Frankly, the earlier you can submit it, the better off you will be.

Official School Transcript

Request this official document well in advance. Make sure that you include any translations or explanations as required by the school.

Student Essay

The student essay takes on an enhanced importance for international students. The school needs to know that you will be happy in your new environment and culture. It will look for fluency in written English as well.

Math Exam

Competency in math is important. Make sure you offer good scores.

TOEFL Score Report

The Test of English as a Foreign Language score report is another important document which your school needs to receive and review as soon as possible. A good TOEFL score and demonstrated competency in English language indicates that you will be able to handle the academic work at your new American school. Be sure to practise for the TOEFL exam before you actually take it.

Letters of Recommendation: Math and English

The school will also want to see strong letters of recommendation from your current English and math teachers.

Campus Visit and/or Phone Interview

Wherever possible, try to visit the school. It is really the only way to know whether your child will be happy in her new surroundings.

I-20 Documentation

Once you have been accepted, the school can issue the I-20 which allows you to begin the F1 visa application process. You need to allow 3-4 months to let that process play out.