Financial Aid for International Students at U.S. Colleges

For many international students, the cost of studying in the United States can feel like the biggest obstacle. While financial aid for international students at U.S. colleges does exist, it’s important to understand how admissions and funding really work — especially when financial need is involved.

Do U.S. Colleges Offer Financial Aid to International Students?

Yes, many U.S. colleges provide institutional scholarships and financial aid for international students. The financial aid policies and amounts vary significantly from college to college and between state schools and private colleges. For example, public universities typically do not offer need-based aid and award limited merit aid, while private colleges offer more. It is important to research financial aid policies and availability at each college when building your list.

Need-Aware Admissions for International Students

Most U.S. colleges are need-aware for international applicants, meaning a student’s ability to pay can impact the admissions decision. In other words, applying for financial aid may make admission more competitive at many schools. Only a small number of U.S. colleges are truly need-blind for international students, which is why strategic school selection is critical. Schools that are need-blind and/or offer significant financial aid for international students are some of the most competitive for admission.

Types of Financial Aid Available

International students may receive:

• Merit-based scholarships, awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or special talents

• Need-based institutional aid, offered by colleges with budgets specifically for international students

Because funding is limited, students requesting significant financial aid must present especially strong academic profiles and applications.

Proof of Finances and the Student Visa Process

In addition to admissions, proof of financial resources is a required part of the U.S. student visa process. Students must show they can cover tuition and living expenses (through personal funds, scholarships, or a combination) in order to receive the Form I-20 and apply for an F-1 student visa. Here is a sample of what this form looks like. This makes understanding true affordability even more important early in the process.

Why Expert Guidance Matters

Navigating need-aware admissions, scholarships, and visa financial requirements can be overwhelming. At ACM College Consulting, we help international students:

• Build realistic, financially strategic college lists

• Understand how requesting aid affects admissions decisions

• Identify schools that support international students with funding

• Prepare strong applications and manage financial documentation

Financial aid for international students in the U.S. is possible — but it requires honest financial planning, careful school selection, and strong applications. With the right strategy and expert support, students can maximize both admission and funding outcomes while avoiding surprises during the visa process.

Stay tuned for our next blog post about financial aid forms for international students.

How to Prepare for a College Admissions Interview: A Complete Guide for Students

With the right preparation, you can go into your college interview feeling confident and ready to stand out.

An admissions interview can be a wonderful opportunity to strengthen your application and make a lasting impression on an admissions officer or alumni interviewer. While interviews are rarely make-or-break, a strong performance can help humanize your application and highlight qualities that don’t always come through in the normal application.

Before the Interview: How to Prepare

1. Do Your Research

Spend time learning about the college before your interview. Understand the school’s academic strengths, campus culture, and values. Be prepared to explain why this school is a good fit for you specifically — not just why it’s a “good school.”

2. Show Up on Time (or Early)

Whether your interview is in person or virtual, punctuality matters. Arriving early shows responsibility, respect, and maturity — qualities colleges value.

3. Dress Professionally

You don’t need to wear a suit, but you should look neat, polished, and put together. First impressions matter, and proper attire shows that you are taking the interview seriously.

4. Prepare Your Personal Introduction

Be ready to give a brief introduction that highlights:

• Your strengths

• Your academic and extracurricular interests

• What makes you unique

This is your chance to add something meaningful to your application file that admissions officers may not already know.

Common College Interview Questions

While every interview is different, many colleges ask similar questions. Practicing thoughtful, specific answers will help you feel more confident and natural.

You may be asked:

• Why are you interested in attending this school?

• Why did you choose this major or what majors are you considering?

• What are your future academic and/or career goals?

• Is there a project, paper, lab, or experience you are especially proud of?

• What activities are you involved in, and which are most important to you? Why?

• What would your teachers or friends say about you?

• What are you interested in doing on campus outside the classroom?

• How do you envision your college experience?

• What books have you read recently, and what did you learn from them?

• What are your summer plans?

• What are your favorite classes and why?

• What are your passions? What do you truly enjoy doing?

• Tell me something about you that is not on your résumé or application.

Smart Questions Students Should Ask the Interviewer

At the end of the interview, you will almost always be asked if you have any questions. This is not just a formality — it’s an important part of the conversation. Thoughtful questions show curiosity, maturity, and genuine interest in the school.

Consider asking:

• What did you love most about attending this school? (If the interviewer is an alum)

• Do you feel the school provides strong resources for career exploration and development?

• What was your favorite class or professor and why? (If the interviewer is an alum)

• What is your favorite campus tradition?

• What advice would you give a student hoping to make the most of their time there?

Always try to ask specific questions related to your interests or intended major. This demonstrates that you have done your research and are genuinely excited about the school. If your interviewer is an alum, note that they may not have responses to more specific questions about programs or majors, but they could have a wealth of insight into the campus community and culture. If you know their name before the interview, you can try to find them on LinkedIn, etc. to learn more about them beforehand.

Final Tips for a Successful College Interview

• Be yourself — authenticity matters more than rehearsed answers

• Practice out loud, but don’t memorize responses

• Maintain good eye contact and positive body language

• Send a brief thank-you email after the interview

A strong college interview won’t just improve your application — it can also help you clarify whether a school is the right fit for you.

Top Reasons to Study in Prague

Looking to Study Abroad? Why Prague is One of the Best Places to Study in Europe

In May, I attended the International Association for College Admission Counseling regional conference in Prague and had the wonderful opportunity to visit six universities. While visiting six schools in two days is exhausting, I was grateful for the opportunity to learn more about the individual schools and college life in Prague. As I always tell my students, it's always better to visit schools in person to get a better sense of student life, the quality of campus facilities, classroom sizes, and the general campus culture. After my visit, I can confidently say that if you're searching for affordable, high-quality colleges outside the U.S., Prague should be on your list!

The capital of the Czech Republic is becoming one of the top destinations for international students who want to study abroad in Europe. With low living costs, excellent universities, and many programs taught in English, Prague offers a unique opportunity to earn a degree while exploring a beautiful and historic European city.

Why Study in Prague?

Top Universities with English-Taught Programs
Prague is home to leading European universities such as Charles University, Czech Technical University (CTU), and University of Economics, Prague (VSE). These institutions offer a wide range of bachelor's, master's, and PhD programs in English, including Business and Engineering.

Affordable Living and Tuition Costs
Compared to studying in the U.S., U.K., or Australia, Prague offers an affordable alternative. Monthly living expenses, including housing, meals, and transportation, typically range from €500–€900. Tuition fees range from 2,000-10,000 €/yr depending on the program and school.

Live and Travel in Central Europe
Studying in Prague means you're in the heart of Europe. With easy access to major cities like Vienna, Berlin, and Budapest, international students can explore multiple countries on a student budget. While I was in Prague itself, I was able to easily navigate across the city using their great public transport system. I took a direct train from Munich to get there.

Experience European Culture and History
Prague is known for its fairy-tale architecture, medieval castles, and rich cultural life. There are beautiful buildings around every corner. With nearly 130,000 college students, the city is full of life, and there are more than enough activities to get involved in. Students can enjoy music festivals, museums, local cafés, and historic landmarks—all while pursuing their education.

What to Know Before Applying

• Programs in English: Many degrees are fully taught in English, and most universities offer Czech language classes to their students to help them in everyday life.

• Admissions Requirements: Most universities require proof of previous education, English language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL), and sometimes a motivation letter or entrance exam.

• Student Visa: Non-EU students must apply for a student visa. Apply early, as processing times can vary. This is one of the most complicated parts of studying in the Czech Republic and it requires planning ahead as appointments at the Czech Embassy are difficult to get in some cities.

Student Life in Prague

• Student Housing: University dormitories start around €150/month. Private apartments are also available, but limited as there is such a high demand. I toured one student housing complex and was impressed by the facilities and organization, but heard that it is difficult to get a room in the nicer dorms.

• Public Transport: Students get discounted travel passes—just €10/month for metro, trams, and buses.

• Community: With thousands of international students and active Erasmus student groups, it's easy to make friends and feel at home. Also, many students are wary of studying in another country due to safety concerns. What was very clear to me was the level of safety in Prague. Nearly every student I spoke with mentioned how safe the city was.

Ready to Start Your Global Education Journey?

If you're researching where to study outside the US, Prague offers an unbeatable combination of quality education, affordability, and cultural richness.

Need help finding the best-fit universities abroad and applying with confidence?
Contact ACM College Consulting for expert guidance on your international college search. We help students find the right programs, prepare competitive applications, and plan successful international study experiences.

How to Search for Colleges Abroad

How to Search for Colleges Abroad: A Step-by-Step Guide

Europe, with its rich history, diverse cultures, and world-renowned universities is a popular destination for international students. Why study abroad for just one semester when you could get your entire bachelor’s degree abroad? Getting your degree abroad is an exciting opportunity that opens doors to new cultures, experiences, and educational systems. However, finding the right college can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. In this post, I’ll break down how to search for colleges abroad and pursue your international college dreams.

1. Define Your Priorities

As with any college search, before diving in, it’s important to know what you’re looking for. Ask yourself the following questions to get started:

• What is your field of study?
  While teens often don’t have an answer to this question, it is important to have a solid idea before you search for colleges abroad. Not all programs are offered in English, and many colleges have specific requirements for admission to their different programs. Many international colleges do not have the ‘liberal arts’ approach colleges in the U.S. do, and the education is more program/major specific. Also, unlike in the U.S., some university systems such as those in Germany or the U.K. do not offer as much flexibility with changing majors and exploring other programs. Check out this blog post for tips to help you choose your college major.

• What kind of campus life are you looking for?
  Are you interested in a bustling city environment or a quieter, more rural setting? Do you want to be close to a major airport to fly home? Some students thrive in large metropolitan areas, while others prefer smaller towns with a more intimate college atmosphere. Do you want a more traditional campus setting similar to that of colleges in the U.S.? Many German universities have less centralized campuses with buildings spread throughout their cities and little to no student housing, while campuses such as those of St. Andrew’s and Edinburgh in Scotland are more similar to the colleges you find in the U.S. College campuses and student life abroad vary significantly from country to country and school to school, so it is important to really think about what you want from your college as you search.

• What languages do you speak or want to speak?
  While many universities in Europe offer courses in English, not all do. Some schools require a certain level of proficiency in their native language for undergraduate courses even if they are primarily offered in English. Check language requirements and plan ahead to meet them! Either way, one of the benefits of studying abroad is the opportunity to learn another language. Pick a college in an area with the language you want to learn.

• What is your budget?
  European tuition fees vary greatly depending on the country, public vs private, and the program. While some countries like Germany and Norway offer free or low-cost education to all students, others such as those in the U.K. and Netherlands have higher tuition rates. Factor in that attending a college that only requires three years of study for a bachelor’s degree could potentially save you a lot of money.

2. Use Online College Search Platforms

Once you have a better idea of what you’re looking for, many platforms can help you begin your search for colleges across Europe. Here are some useful pages to get started:

• Country or Region Specific Databases
  A great place to start looking for colleges is country-specific databases. Here are a few of them:

• Netherlands - https://www.studyinnl.org/dutch-education/studies

• Germany – https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/universities/all-degree-programmes/

• U.K. - https://www.ucas.com/explore/search/providers?query=

• Japan - https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/search-for-schools/school_search.php?lang=en

• Australia - https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/en/plan-your-studies/find-a-course

• College Websites
  Most universities in Europe have detailed information on their official websites, including admissions requirements, course offerings, and tuition fees. Start by identifying universities you are interested in and exploring their offerings. As always, the more reliable data for each college will come from the school itself.

4. Understand the Admission Requirements

Once you've narrowed down your options, research each university's admission requirements. Note that the traditional U.S. high school diploma is often not sufficient for admission to international universities so it is important to plan ahead to meet the specific academic requirements. Academic requirements vary significantly and may include several AP tests, the SAT or ACT, and/or other admissions tests. English proficiency tests, personal statements, proof of other language proficiency, and/or proof of finances may be additional application requirements.

5. Visit Open Days & Attend Virtual Tours and Information Sessions

If possible, attend university open days or information sessions. While demonstrated interest is not typically a factor in the admission process, these events give you an invaluable opportunity to get a feel for the campus environment, meet faculty members, and talk to current students. Virtual sessions are especially useful if traveling abroad to visit colleges isn’t an option for you. Also, many international colleges send counselors to college fairs. Check out the fairs in your area to see if colleges of interest may be there.

Conclusion

Searching for colleges abroad can seem like a daunting task, but by following these steps, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect university for your academic and personal goals. Take the time to explore all the possibilities and choose a university that will help you thrive academically and culturally.

Get ready for an incredible international study adventure!

ACM specializes in helping students with their international college search and applications, schedule a free consultation to learn more.

Why study in Europe? Check out this blog post.

Study in Europe

Why Study in Europe?

Studying in Europe is an exciting opportunity for students to expand their horizons, and Europe is one of the best destinations for an international academic experience. Having moved here myself, I witness the benefits of living and studying in Europe daily. Here's why:

1. World-Class Education: Europe is home to some of the world's top universities and academic programs. Whether you're interested in business, science, the arts, or social sciences, you'll find a diverse range of high-quality colleges offering cutting-edge research and a global perspective. Most degrees are internationally recognized and you can return to your home country or stay in Europe to work or continue your education.

2. Cultural Richness: From the historical cities of Paris and Rome to the modern vibrancy of Berlin and Barcelona, Europe offers a rich cultural experience. Studying here means exposure to diverse languages, traditions, and histories, bolstering both personal and academic growth. You will be studying alongside students from all over the world and have opportunities for internships and work experience at international companies and organizations. While studying a language is often not required, studying in a foreign city will certainly support students learning another language alongside their studies.

3. Affordable Tuition: Many European countries offer lower tuition fees compared to other popular destinations like the United States and the UK. Countries like Germany and Norway offer free (or nearly) education for international students, making Europe a cost-effective choice. Universities in the Netherlands have much lower tuition than the US even for students who do not have an EU passport. Also, bachelor’s degrees in some countries such as France, Germany, Spain and the Netherlands only require three years of study allowing for students to graduate a year earlier than in the US and potentially save more money.

4. Travel Opportunities: Europe’s compact geography and excellent transportation system makes it easy to travel between countries. Students can explore different cultures, cuisines, and landmarks on a budget while gaining a broader understanding of the world.

5. Post-Graduation Opportunities: Graduating from a European institution can open doors to employment opportunities within the EU and beyond. Many countries offer post-study work visas, allowing graduates to gain valuable international work experience.

With its top academics, rich culture, affordability, and travel potential, studying in Europe is an excellent option for undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Ready to get started? Check out my post about how to search for colleges abroad.

College Planning for Juniors: How to Prepare for the College Application Process

START NOW!

High school juniors are at a pivotal stage in the college application process.

While senior year gets the spotlight, much of the prep work should happen NOW. Here’s a short guide to get you started on your college planning.

1. Evaluate Your Academic Standing

Colleges will closely review your grades and the rigor of your coursework. Depending on which country, college and program you are applying to, you may be required to have certain courses to be eligible or competitive. It is important you are on track to meet those requirements now while there is still time.

• Grades: Focus on maintaining strong grades, particularly in challenging courses like AP, dual enrollment, or IB courses.

• Course Selection: Ensure your coursework aligns with your future academic interests, goals, AND potential admissions requirements.

2. Research Colleges

Begin exploring potential colleges. You don’t need to finalize your list yet, but gather information on a range of schools that meet your academic and non-academic criteria. A great place to start researching colleges is Peterson’s, but remember the most accurate information will come from the colleges themselves.

• Build College List: Include a mix of reach, match, and safety schools

• Factors to Consider: Location, campus culture, size, academic offerings, student support, and career services are just a few of the important factors you should consider. Evaluate what is important for your personal college search.

• Plan Campus Visits: Don’t wait for summer break to begin visiting campuses. Plan visits now while students are on campus to give you a better sense of the culture and life there. It is important to visit campuses to gain a better idea of what you want and don’t want from your future college.

3. Prepare for Standardized Tests

If you plan to take the SAT or ACT, start preparing now. Plan to take the test at least twice this spring and summer to meet fall deadlines. While most colleges are test-free or test-optional, remember that more and more schools are shifting back to requiring testing. Research the testing requirements of your potential colleges as you plan.

• Test Dates: Register at least six weeks in advance for the SAT or ACT as space is limited and some locations get full early.

• Study Tools: Consider prep books, online resources, or tutoring if necessary – do what works best for your personal study habits and schedule. Check out my post with great tips and resources for preparing for the SAT.

4. Engage in Extracurriculars

Colleges want to see students who are involved outside of the classroom. Focus on quality over quantity. I recommend creating a student resume now so that you can see the full picture of your activities starting from grade nine. Consider where your strengths and weaknesses are and how you want to present yourself to colleges.

• Leadership: Seek leadership roles or greater involvement in your activities.

• Passions: Continue deepening your commitment to activities that align with your interests.

• Exploration:  Investigate options to help with choosing your college major and career options while building your resume.

5. Build Strong Relationships with Teachers

Letters of recommendation will most likely be a necessary part of your application. Build connections with teachers who can write detailed and supportive letters.

• Participate in Class: Engage with teachers to build meaningful relationships.

• Ask Early: Approach teachers in the spring for recommendation letters. More information about recommendation letters can be found here.

6. Start Thinking About Essays

College essays are an opportunity to show who you are beyond your academics. Now is a great time to begin brainstorming potential topics. Review the past Common Application essay prompts and think about what topics may be good fits for you.

• Personal Statement:  Review the personal statement prompts and begin generating ideas. Reflect on your experiences, challenges, and personal growth.

• Supplemental Essays: Look at past supplemental essay prompts for your potential colleges and remember to plan in extra time to write them this summer.

7. Plan for Financial Aid

Start thinking about how you’ll fund your college education NOW.

• Net Price Calculators:  Work with your family to complete net price calculators for colleges of interest. This will give you a general idea of your potential costs.

• Scholarships: Research potential scholarships available to juniors and start applying.

• FAFSA and CSS Profile: Do your research to understand the financial aid process and what forms and documentation are needed.

8. Stay Organized

Unfortunately, the college application process is not simple, stay on top of deadlines and requirements.

• Create a Timeline: Plan out your tasks for the next year. From test prep to application submission deadlines, include everything.

• Track Materials Needed: Create an excel sheet or system that works for you to organize and keep track of all application requirements such as essays, activity descriptions, transcripts, financial aid documents, and testing.

Final Thoughts

Junior year is crucial for setting up a smooth college application process. By focusing on academics, extracurriculars, college research, and relationships now, you’ll be in a great position to tackle your college applications senior year. The work you do this year will lay the foundation for successful applications and ultimately help you find the right college fit. If you would like expert college counseling, now is a great time to contact us.

How to Apply to the UCs

Students who want to apply to any of the nine UC campus must use the UC application. Unfortunately, it is a separate application with different activity descriptions and writing requirements than the Common Application. This year, the deadline for fall semester applications is December 2. Start early; do not underestimate the time it will take to complete it well!

To complete the UC application you need:

• Transcript for entering courses and grades

• SSN (if available) and contact information

• Test scores – IB, AP, English Proficiency and/or other international exams (NOT SAT OR ACT)

• Activities List

• Responses to 4 Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)

Campuses and Majors Section

You will select a major for each campus you apply to. Keep in mind that each campus offers varying majors and/or names the majors differently. They have tried to make it easier for you to find your major by listing some of them under multiple categories. You will also be able to select an alternative major but note that some campuses do not consider alternative majors for certain first-choice major selections if at all. Do your research as to how campuses consider these majors and how impacted each major is at your campus(es) of choice.

Ex. UC SB does not admit by major except for Engineering (strongly suggest picking a non-engineering backup major). UC Berkeley rarely considers the second-choice major listed.

Important notes: Campuses do not collaborate on their admissions decisions nor consider which other campuses a student has applied to. Some majors require supplements to the application and these will be visible once the student selects their major in the application.

Academic History Section

All grades are self-reported through the application and transcripts are not accepted. You will enter all grades from all courses taken in grades 9-12 including repeated courses. If you took a high school-level math or language course other than English in 7th or 8th grade, you can include them. There are no +/- used. Students are expected to meet the A-G requirements outlined here.

The UCs use their own calculation to determine what GPA a student has. The GPA only includes 10th and 11th grade; this includes courses taken in the summer after 9th, 10th, and 11th grades. They will recalculate GPAs for applicants, no need to try to calculate it yourself. However, if you want to get an idea of what your UC GPA is, you can use the UC A-G list to verify which courses are given weight. 

Activities and Awards Section

You can enter up to 20 activities from grades 9-12 in six categories:        

• Award or honor

• Educational preparation program

• Extracurricular activity

• Work experience

• Other coursework

• Volunteering / Community service

The prompts for how you will describe each of these vary by type of activity. Use the space wisely and describe the activities efficiently, highlighting your specific contribution. You have 350 characters for this. You do not have to use full sentences. Also, note that the activities are numbered but not ranked, so the order in which they are listed is not important.

If you were not able to participate in many activities due to lack of availability or personal circumstances, you can share that with admissions in the Activities & Awards and Additional Comments sections. If you take a gap year or are a transfer student, you can select the ‘after 12th grade’ option to enter activities post-12th grade.

Scholarships and Support Section

The options available here will vary depending on which campuses you select to apply to. You will select all criteria that apply to you and then see which scholarships are available depending on the responses. The responses to these prompts are not considered in the admission decision. They are used solely to determine eligibility for scholarships.

You can also apply for the Education Opportunity Program (EOP), a program for first-generation and/or low-income students that offers additional support resources such as mentoring and financial assistance.

Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) Section

Students will select four of the eight PIQs to respond to. Each response can be up to 350 words. The same responses will be sent to ALL campuses you apply to and can not be changed for each school. These questions are your opportunity to share details not seen anywhere else in the application. This is your chance to show the colleges who you are and what is important to you.

Additional Information Section

This section should be used to provide information about extenuating circumstances or details that could not be shared elsewhere; this can be academic and non-academic information. Examples of this may be an explanation of the high school coursework available to you, family crises, or lack of activities available in your area.

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 Start early, take the time to research which campus(es) and majors are right for you, and craft thoughtful and thorough activity descriptions and PIQ responses. If you are a younger student, consider the A-G requirements early and make a plan to meet them. It is important to start thinking about how you will strengthen your academic and extracurricular profiles early. For guidance on your college planning and additional assistance with your applications, contact us.

FAQs

1. Does the UC require test scores?

Test scores are not required for admission to the UCs. They will consider scores from AP, IB, English Proficiency, and other international exams but NOT ACT or SAT scores. Submitting unofficial scores is fine.

2. Does the UC require recommendation letters?

No, however, as part of an extended review process or if you apply for select scholarships, you may be asked to submit one.

3. How many UC campuses can I apply to?

You can apply to as many as you want.

4. What are the English Language Proficiency requirements for the UCs?

There are many ways to demonstrate English proficiency. Take a look at the updated list of accepted exams here.

What is the difference between an Agent and a Counselor?

Often confused with being an agent, I find myself having to explain the differences to both families and universities. I am NOT an agent and have no interest in being paid by the colleges my students attend.

The fundamental difference is that agents are paid commission by the universities they ‘partner’ with. They are paid based on the number of students that enroll in those colleges. Agents will help students select colleges and complete their applications but only to those schools which they are paid by. Often, families work with agents for a much shorter time and begin working with them closer to application season.

As a counselor, I am paid by the families to help their student find the best match schools and guide them on their journey of preparing themselves and their applications for those schools. I am deeply invested in getting to know the student and helping them find schools which truly fit who they are and what they want. The service is much more comprehensive and personalized. My recommendations are non-biased and fully based on each individual student.

There are certainly some great agents out there, but it is important to keep in mind that when using their services, you are limited to the schools they work with. They have personal interest in sending students to certain schools whether or not they are great fits. There are so many amazing schools out there that you may be missing out on!

As a member of the Higher Education Consultants Association, I am proud to follow their Ethics and Standards for working with students and their families.

What is the SSAR/SRAR?

The Self-Reported Academic Record is basically a student’s transcripts in another format completed by the student instead of the high school. Until 2022, the SRAR and SSAR were two different forms with the SSAR only used by FL colleges and the SRAR by others. They have merged and are the SAME THING although colleges still refer to them using the two different names. It is used as a substitute or supplement to official transcripts at nearly 40 colleges in the US including NYU, University of Florida, Florida State University, Clemson, Baylor, and Texas A&M. Students complete this record by inputting their high school courses attempted and/or taken and their respective grades including the courses in progress senior year.

Why do schools use the SSAR/SRAR?

In Florida, UF began using the SSAR in 2013 and several schools joined them shortly after. They adopted it in order to streamline the process of connecting transcripts to applications. Instead of waiting for transcripts to be sent from the high schools, students’ SSAR/SRARs are connected directly to their applications. In addition to linking the students’ academic records to their applications more efficiently, the SSAR/SRAR allows colleges to sort through transcripts easily as the data was manually entered by the student in a standard form instead of being sent as a non-standardized document from the school. While many students complain about the tedious work of data entry, others say it relieves stress as they are now in control and do not need to rely on the school to send their transcripts on time.

When should students complete it?

The SSAR/SRAR is a regular and essential piece of the college application to the schools which require it. College applications are not considered complete until the SRAR is received along with everything else. Students should complete it while they are working on their applications and ensure it is submitted to the colleges by the admission deadline they are aiming for. While some colleges such as UF will accept the SSAR a few weeks after the early application deadlines, it makes the most sense to finish it all at the same time and avoid the risk of having an incomplete application. So if you are applying for a November 1 priority deadline, get it in by then, etc.

How is it completed?

Before starting the SRAR/SSAR, students need to obtain a copy of their high school transcript to use for the data entry. They will then create an account on the official website and begin entering the information. Once complete, they should double-check for any errors before submitting. Connecting the SRAR/SSAR to the application varies by college. Several schools have students connect it after they have submitted their application by logging into their student account where they check their application status and inputting their individual SRAR/SSAR code. Others send students an email with a link to log in to their SRAR/SSAR account and connect it to their application. Students should check with their individual colleges for proper instructions to link their academic records to their application. They should also check their email and application status pages for each college regularly to ensure they have complete applications.

What if you make a mistake on the SRAR/SSAR?

As long as the mistake is corrected before the application is reviewed and/or before the application deadline, you can log in to your SRAR/SSAR account and make the changes. If you are too late, you should call the admissions office at your chosen colleges to inform them of the errors. If you made a slight error and do not catch it, it will most likely have no affect on your application. However, if it appears that you intentionally inflated grades or listed courses you did not take, etc. your application could be thrown out. Do your best to accurately input the information. Students who have been accepted and plan on enrolling at colleges which require the SRAR/SSAR will have to send in their official transcripts to verify the information they entered on the SRAR/SSAR.

 Other FAQs about the SRAR/SSAR

• Which Universities Require the SRAR/SSAR?

  https://srarsupport.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/4408738060315-Which-Colleges-Universities-Accept-The-SSAR-SRAR

• Do you enter college courses on the SRAR/SSAR?

  College courses that are taken as part of high school such as Dual Enrollment courses should be listed on the form, but courses taken on your own will not be included. The courses included in the SSAR/SRAR must be listed on your high school transcript.

• Do international students need to complete the SRAR/SSAR?

  This depends on the college you are applying to. For example, Texas A&M and NYU are two schools that require international students to complete the form. UF does not require it.

• Do you students list grades as unweighted or weighted on the SRAR/SSAR?

  List your grades as they are reported on your transcript. You will also select which type of course (AP, Dual Enrollment, IB, etc.) you are entering. If both unweighted and weighted grades are listed on your transcript, use unweighted grades for the SRAR/SSAR.

• How do students list summer courses on the SRAR/SSAR?

  List the courses under the previous academic year along with the other classes taken during that school year.

For other FAQs visit the official SRAR website or contact your colleges with specific questions.

Notes from my Georgia Tech Visit

A few weeks ago, I had the wonderful opportunity to tour GA Tech with colleagues from HECA. We attended a wonderful information session followed by a thorough campus tour. This was my first time visiting the campus, and I was impressed with what I saw and learned about the school.

As one of the nation’s top public research universities GA Tech offers more than 39 majors within their six colleges of Computing, Design, Engineering, Sciences, Liberal Arts, and Business. As they are a ‘tech’ school, technology is indeed woven into each major. All awarded degrees are Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and all programs require Computer Science courses. While they do offer business and liberal arts degrees, it may not be a good fit for students who want a more liberal arts approach with less of a tech focus. Outside of the highly coveted programs in Engineering and Computer Science, Design and Architecture are also quite popular. Some of their newest majors include Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences and Earth and Planetary Sciences.

Currently, they enroll close to 20k undergraduate and 28k graduate students with more than 1000 transfer students each year. 29% of undergrads are out-of-state students, 10% international, and 61% from GA. They do have more out-of-state students than many other state schools in the U.S. such as UT Austin, UNC, and the UCs, but competition for those spots is tough. Out of the 60k applicants last year, only 11k were from Georgia. That means 49k applicants were competing for those non-GA spots. The acceptance rate for GA students is actually 3x that of non-GA students.

The Georgia Tech campus is spread over 250 acres and they are continuing to grow with the addition of their exciting new Science Square which will have more than 1 million SF of lab and office space dedicated to life science research. What surprised me was how although the campus is nestled against the capital city of Atlanta, it felt like a separate, more peaceful world next door. There are plenty of green spaces and places for students to be ‘away’ from the hustle and bustle of the city. Having lived abroad for the last few years, I was a little excited to see some favorite American chains located right on campus such as Dunkin’ Donuts, Chic-fil-A, and Jimmy Johns. What shocked me as I walked through their beautifully renovated library, is that almost all of their books have been moved off campus to make room for more study and working spaces. It is the first time I have visited a library without actually seeing books. Students have access to more than 35,000 scholarly journals which they can download digitally or they can order one of the more than 3.5 million books through the online catalog and have them delivered. Last but not least, the campus Makerspaces at Georgia Tech are amazing! Students, regardless of their major, have access to six different makerspaces including their newest, the first artificial intelligence supercomputer makerspace in the nation.

While GA Tech sometimes gets labeled as all work and no play, there are plenty of opportunities for students to get involved outside of the classroom. Their athletic and recreation facilities are impressive and include a beautiful pool which was home to the 1996 Olympics and a 42-foot climbing wall. They offer lots of intramural team options and fitness classes. 25% of students are Greek and rush primarily during freshman year, but some choose to rush later. Greek life definitely has a presence, but it is not as strong as at other schools such as UGA. There are many creative arts options on campus including Dramatech, the student-run theatre group which is housed within part of the Robert Ferst Center for the Arts, a state-of-the-art performing arts center with a 1000-seat auditorium. There are more than enough non-academic activities to get involved in, but students need to be self-driven and make the effort to join. With a 98% retention rate, students must be finding ‘their place’.

While lower 4 and 6-year graduation rates are sometimes seen as a negative, two of the causes of this at GA Tech are their amazing co-op and internship programs. GA Tech has the largest voluntary co-op program in America and it is a five-year program through which students alternate between study and work semesters and complete three full semesters working with the same employer. Students may instead choose to do full or part-time internships through the internship program and many do choose to take a semester off to work full time. Most students graduating from Georgia Tech come out with fantastic resumes with at least one work experience, often leading to jobs soon after graduation.

So how do you get into Georgia Tech?

Students need to show the admissions office that they have truly challenged themselves in high school. Students coming into GA Tech have taken rigorous courseloads and done well in them. GA Tech does not recalculate a GPA, they take it directly from the transcript and focus on the courses students have taken and their grade trends.

Math is very important! While not everyone has taken calculus, that is a big plus, and being calculus-ready is a MUST for students applying for CS and Engineering. Whether it is taking an online course, community college course, or something offered by your high school, make sure you have demonstrated knowledge of high-level math by the time you apply.

The college major listed on your application matters! While they do not admit by major, programs in CS and Engineering are extremely popular and they do have to limit the number of students they accept so they are not overrun. Students need to show that they truly are interested in the fields they are applying to. Extracurricular activities like research, jobs, and volunteer work in those areas are a great way to demonstrate this. But that being said, they want a diverse student body. You should also continue to do what you love, whether or not that is related to your college major, and show the admissions team who you are both in and outside of the classroom.

Test scores are important although it is a holistic review process. After becoming test-optional during COVID, the GA Board of Regents voted to require test scores for applicants to several of the big state schools in GA including Georgia Tech, UGA, August University, Georgia Southern, and Georgia State. All students applying to GA Tech are required to submit either an SAT or ACT score as part of their application. They do superscore and accept unofficial scores until enrollment. Start preparing early and plan on testing early enough to eliminate last-minute stress close to application deadlines.

The supplemental essay is another chance to shine! Here is your chance to show them that you are passionate about your subject(s) AND truly know why you want to go to Georgia Tech. This can not be a cookie-cutter essay.

Another important note is that GA Tech accepts up to four recommendation letters including one OTHER recommender. While I don’t recommend submitting four just because you can, you do have an opportunity to distinguish yourself here. Develop strong relationships with your teachers and provide them with information to write quality recommendation letters that go beyond the basics. Also, take this opportunity to ask someone outside of school to write one of your letters!