
Registration and Admissions Requirements in the United States
The United States has thousands of collegiate institutions. As the registration requirements for each of these schools differ, they must be separately applied to. Although you may be decided about which school you would like to attend, your first choice may not accept you, so it is valuable to research backup schools as well. This process takes time, especially as an international student. We at LIAISON-USA are here to help you through the process. This article is designed to better inform you about the registration and admissions requirements in United States universities.
Testing
Most universities in the United States will require you to take one or more standardized tests in order to be approved to their programs. These admissions tests are required of every student, national or international, and demonstrate a student’s basic knowledge and English language proficiency. They are designed as a means to ensure every student admitted is at the appropriate level of understanding. As scores on these tests are a determining factor in your admission to United States colleges, it is important to be prepared for them. We can help your preparation process; deciding which test is needed (GRE, TOEFL, SAT, ACT, MCAT, LSAT, etc.), reviewing test fees, preparing for the test, and choosing how to take the test (computer or paper based).
Evaluating Your Credentials
Another important aspect in the admissions process in the United States is the evaluation of your credentials. Curriculum varies from country to country; not only in language, but in learning level as well. As such, you may be required to submit your transcripts for evaluation. Credential evaluators or agencies can examine and translate your transcripts, verifying the authenticity of the documents and the official status of your school. They will “translate” your documents into the educational language required for university admissions in the United States. For instance, College admissions in the United States typically require grade point average (GPA) to be expressed on a 4.0 scale. They also count credits by semester. If your transcripts are from a country which uses a different method of GPA expression or credits earned, a credential evaluator will statistically reword the document to fit the standard format for admissions in the United States.
Student Visas
As an international student, one aspect of admissions in the United States that you must consider is the type of visa you will need. Typically, three different types of visas are offered to international students: F1 Visa, J1 Visa, or M1 Visa. There are different applicable scenarios for each visa. For instance, the F1 and J1 Visas allow for employment within the United States, and the M1 Visa does not. There are many factors to consider when applying for a visa, and we can help you decide which one is right for you.
At LIAISON-USA, we are committed to your success. Our well-equipped staff has been in the higher educational system for years, and will help you with every step of the registration and admissions process in the United States.