Most colleges and universities require that you take certain tests before you even qualify to apply as a student. Almost very school requires the SAT, a standardized, general test which can be taken several times per year, locally around the country. If English is your second language, you will also need to take TOEFL to test your English skills.
Many schools also require the ACT for undergraduate studies, and for graduates, the GRE or GMAT (depending on whether you are majoring in a math/science or arts discipline). Aspiring doctors will be required to take the MCATS while prospective law students will need to take the LSAT.
Locating a test-taking center and applying to take these tests can take weeks, sometimes months, so plan ahead. And keep in mind that there will be a fee to take each test.
At the bottom of the article are contact information and links to the administrative offices for each test headquarters, in alphabetical order.
Once you have the appropriate test scores, you will need to review the admissions procedures for each school to which you apply. Most ask that you submit test scores, application forms, transcripts from high school (or the foreign equivalent, along with an official US evaluation of the foreign credits), and sometimes an essay. Some schools also have their own admissions tests that you must take. Whether or not you are granted admission will depend on all these factors, especially the grades you have gotten in the past, and your test scores. There is almost always an application fee that must be enclosed before your application can be considered. You should use a cashier's check, money order or personal check from a US bank to pay the fees, or, if they accept credit cards, that's an option. If you are sending money from abroad, make sure it's an international money order or check.
Because international students must be very specific when applying for a student visa, you should review the available majors at the schools you are looking at, choose one, declare that major on your paperwork and note it on your application payment.
Graduate students, and especially law and medical students, often face a more grueling application procedure. Make sure you check with the general admissions office as well as the individual department you would be dealing with for all their requirements.
You will need to prepare an Affidavit of Financial Support and Bank Statement in order to qualify for a student visa. The school will also require this before accepting an international student. In short, you need to prove that you can pay the cost of attending your college, and the cost of living while in the US. This form must also include an attached bank statement to show that you have the funds. Everything needs to be an original, not a copy, so make copies for yourself.
When sending so many important documents, including originals, it's best to send them by express, registered or certified mail. Check the school's requirements and what they accept.
Good luck!
Test Offices
ACT P.O. Box 4028 Iowa City, IA 52243-4028 USA Phone: (319) 337-1448
