Applying to University Abroad from Germany: A Guide for Students and Families

Thinking about earning your bachelor’s degree outside Germany? Whether you are considering the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, or another European country, understanding your options and application requirements is the first step.

Whether you are working toward the Abitur or attending an international school, a thoughtful plan can help you find universities that suit your interests, academic strengths, and budget. Here are some of the questions I hear most often from students and families in Germany.

When should I start planning for university abroad?

I recommend starting in grades 9 or 10, before important subject choices are finalized. You do not need to know exactly what you want to study or where you want to go. These early years are an opportunity to explore your interests and understand which decisions could affect your future options.

A useful starting point is:

• Grades 9–11: Research possible subjects and careers, review course choices, and explore your interests through projects, volunteering, work experience, clubs, or summer opportunities that help you make informed decisions about your future studies.

  Early planning is particularly useful before students finalize subjects for their last years of school. I work backward from possible degree interests and destinations to identify requirements worth investigating now. The aim is to keep suitable options open without asking a teenager to decide their entire future.

• Penultimate school year (11th or 12th): Continue building resume and gaining experience to help you choose your college major, research universities, compare entry requirements and costs, and make a testing and application plan.

• Summer before and during your final school year (12th or 13th): Complete applications, arrange school documents and references, and meet any scholarship deadlines.

The exact timeline depends on your school system and possible study destinations. If you are already further along, you can still benefit from a focused plan.

How do I compare U.S., U.K., and European universities?

Start with what you want from your education, rather than a list of famous university names and rankings (I don’t want to hear about rankings).

Would you like flexibility to explore different subjects, or are you ready to focus on a particular degree? Do you prefer a large campus community or a smaller institution? Which languages would you feel comfortable studying in?

When comparing options, consider:

• Course content and flexibility

• Academic and language requirements

• Teaching style and assessment methods

• Tuition, living expenses, and potential financial support

• Location, accommodation, and student life

• Internships and opportunities connected to your interests

This all varies significantly even within each country. Before recommending universities to my students, I consider several factors: the student’s school qualification and subject choices, their academic and extracurricular interests, their learning style, and the family’s financial priorities. A university may offer an appealing program, but it belongs on the list only after we have checked both academic eligibility and practical fit.

Can I apply to U.S. universities with the Abitur?

Yes—students pursuing or holding the German Abitur can apply to U.S. universities. You do not need to change to an American school curriculum to consider this route. In fact, many U.S. universities award college credits to students entering with strong Abitur grades, as it is considered a more advanced high school diploma.

See University of Michigan’s Abitur credit policy
See NYU’s Abitur credit policy

Requirements differ by university and intended degree. Review any required or recommended subjects before choosing your courses for the upper secondary years, including advanced-level subjects/Leistungsfächer.

Note the other application requirements which vary by institution; these may include school transcripts, recommendations, essays, standardized testing, and evidence of English proficiency.

Ask your school early who can help provide the required documents. You should also check whether translations are needed and how the university wants your academic records submitted.

What if I attend an international school in Germany?

Students attending international schools may be preparing for the IB Diploma, A-levels, a U.S. high school diploma, or another qualification. Your planning should reflect both your curriculum and the universities you are considering.

For American expat families, the process is not much different than if you were an international student.

I help families understand which questions to ask and how to present a student’s education and international experiences clearly.

Can my IB subjects affect my university options?

Yes. Subject choices can be particularly important when you are considering a degree with specific mathematics, science, or language prerequisites.

Before selecting your IB subjects and Higher Levels, investigate the requirements for several potential programs. This is especially helpful if you are considering more than one country, where expectations or regulations may differ.

You do not need a final university list at this stage. The goal is to make informed choices that suit your strengths while keeping realistic options open.

How can a private college counselor (independent educational consultant) support me?

Private counseling provides individual guidance and a structured plan alongside the support available at school.

I help students explore potential majors, research universities, compare countries, organize deadlines, and prepare applications. For younger students, our work can begin with subject choices, career and personality assessments, activities and summer opportunities, and identifying what they want from university.

Your school remains an essential partner, particularly for official transcripts, school references, and other documents. My role is to complement that support and help your family manage the wider planning process.

University planning support for families in Germany

Based in Pullach, just outside of Munich, I work online with German students, American expats, and international-school families across Germany and internationally. My approach combines thoughtful university research with personalized guidance, helping students make informed decisions and take ownership of their next steps.

Whether you are just beginning to explore studying abroad or are ready to build your university list, we can develop a plan that fits your goals.

Learn more about my university admissions counseling services for students in Germany

Book a free consultation to discuss your university plans

Are U.S. Expats Considered International Students?

At most U.S. universities, citizenship—not where a student lives or attends school—determines whether the applicant is classified as domestic or international. However, your application is often read with the international applications.

At most colleges, your application will be read by the international admissions team responsible for your region and more familiar with the school curricula and other aspects related to student life in that area. It makes sense that your application would be read in the context of where you are attending school. You would be compared more to the students in your region. However, when it comes down to choosing an expat vs a true international student, you often have the advantage as you are eligible for federal aid and do not have the burden of providing proof of finances or eligibility for visa. New policies limiting visa periods and suggested caps on international students would not apply to U.S. expats as they have citizenship.

Although you are not an ‘international student’, you have the benefit of the international experience and hopefully language skills you have gained while living outside of the US. These are great assets to highlight in your applications. How has your international experience shaped you? What can you bring from this to your future campus? I help guide my students to focus on and add activities to their resume which will enhance their application and demonstrate their uniqueness. We also find creative ways to include these international experiences in their essays.   

See other posts in U.S. expat college consulting series

Update on original article posted in 2024

College Admissions Interviews: A Guide for International Students

‍U.S. college admissions interviews are one of the most misunderstood aspects of the admissions process for international students.

With every university following its own policies, it can be difficult to know which opportunities matter and whether completing an interview will strengthen your application. Whether an interview is worth your time and investment depends on your college list, where you're applying from, and whether the interview will add something meaningful to your application.

Here's what every international applicant should know.

Do International Students Have to Interview for U.S. Colleges?

The short answer is no.

Most U.S. colleges do not require interviews for international undergraduate applicants. Instead, colleges may offer or accept one of three interview options:

• An interview with an admissions officer

• An interview with an alumni volunteer

• A third-party interview through InitialView or Vericant

Colleges such as MIT and Harvard offer interviews to as many students as possible, while most colleges don't offer interviews at all. Some colleges, such as Brown, offer students the opportunity to submit their own video introductions instead. Others, such as Bennington, will send an interview request if they would like to ask additional questions.

Even when interviews are available, they're usually considered optional or recommended, rather than required.

That's why it's important to understand each college's policy before deciding whether to schedule one.

Why Do Colleges Offer Interviews?

For international applicants, interviews give admissions officers another opportunity to get to know the person behind the application. They help colleges understand:

• Your communication style and level of English proficiency

• Your academic and extracurricular interests

• Your motivation for studying in the U.S.

• Your personality and intellectual curiosity

Admissions officers are not looking for perfect English or memorized answers. They're looking for thoughtful, authentic conversations.

The Three Types of Interviews

Alumni Interviews - Many selective colleges offer interviews with alumni volunteers. These conversations are typically informal and focus on your interests, goals, and reasons for applying.

Admissions Interview - Some colleges offer interviews directly with members of the admissions office. These are usually conducted virtually and may be slightly more evaluative than alumni interviews.

InitialView and Vericant - When alumni or admissions interviews aren't available, many colleges accept third-party interviews through InitialView or Vericant. Instead of interviewing separately for multiple universities, you complete one professional interview that can be shared with participating colleges.

Both platforms include:

• A live interview

• Questions about your academics and activities

• A recording that colleges can review

• A proctored writing sample -students respond to a prompt in 20-30 min.

InitialView vs. Vericant

Families often ask me which platform is better. The truth is that neither is universally better. The right choice depends on the colleges you're applying to and which platform they recommend. Always check the admissions website for each college on your list before scheduling an interview. A big difference between the two platforms is that InitialView’s interview is more conversational, while Vericant is more structured and includes a picture description. Vericant provides colleges with a score of your English skills (Spoken English Evaluation), while InitialView does not.

Should You Complete One?

This is where personalized advice matters. I don't recommend interviews simply because they're available. Instead, we consider questions such as:

Will colleges actually review InitialView or Vericant?

Will the interview strengthen your application?

Are you comfortable communicating in English in an interview setting?

Is the cost worthwhile for your college list?

For some students, an interview is an excellent opportunity to showcase their personality and communication skills. For colleges that offer alumni or admissions interviews, you have an opportunity to demonstrate your interest in the school while allowing them to get to know you better.

Every student's application strategy should be individualized.

Tips for a Successful Interview

The strongest interviews don't come from students who memorize answers.

Instead:

• Be prepared, but conversational

• Share stories rather than reciting your résumé

• Let your curiosity and enthusiasm come through

• Don't be afraid to pause before answering a question

Admissions officers want to meet the real you—not a rehearsed version of you.

Final Thoughts

A college interview won't determine your admission on its own. But when used strategically, it can help admissions officers better understand the thoughtful, motivated student behind the application.

At ACM College Consulting, I help students develop an admissions strategy that reflects their individual strengths—not a one-size-fits-all checklist. That means deciding whether an InitialView or Vericant interview is worthwhile, preparing for alumni or admissions interviews, and helping students communicate their stories with confidence and authenticity.

If you're applying to U.S. colleges from abroad and aren't sure whether an interview should be part of your admissions strategy, I'd love to help. Together, we can build an application that highlights not only what you've accomplished, but who you are.

Notes:

Some schools such as Claremont McKenna prefer InitialView

Harvard and Duke are two of the schools which offer alumni interviews to many students, but not all. It is based on interviewer availability. If offered, they highly recommend you do it.

Georgetown requires an interview unless they are not offered in your region. They will provide you with the contact information for an interviewer in your area if available. Then, it is your responsibility to contact them and schedule the interview.

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College Consulting for American Families Living Abroad

If you’re an American family living overseas, planning for college can feel complicated.

Your student may attend an international school, follow a non-U.S. curriculum, and consider universities in several countries at once. At the same time, many families want to keep U.S. universities on the list. That means navigating different systems, timelines, essays, and application platforms depending on the country and university. It’s a lot.

My role is to make that process clearer, calmer, and more thoughtful for both students and parents.

Starting with the Student

Before we build a college list or start applications, I focus on getting to know the student.

What excites them?
What are they curious about?
What kind of academic environment will help them thrive?

The strongest applications come from students who understand themselves and can communicate their interests clearly. My role is to guide that process and help students present an authentic story in their applications.

A Global Perspective

Many of the families I work with live outside the United States or are considering universities in multiple countries. Having lived and worked in Europe for many years, I understand how different school systems and admissions expectations can be.

Students today may be considering universities in the U.S., the U.K., Canada, the Netherlands, or elsewhere—and each system works differently.

I help families make sense of those options so students can focus on finding the environment where they will thrive.

The Benefits of a Small, Personal Practice

College counseling is deeply personal work, and I believe students benefit from working closely with one advisor who truly knows them. I work directly with every student and family to:

• Build real relationships with students

• Understand each family’s priorities and concerns

• Spend the time needed to think carefully about each application strategy

• Be available when questions or anxieties inevitably arise

Finding the Right Fit

Of course, getting into college is exciting. But admissions decisions are just one moment in a much longer journey. What matters more is helping students find universities where they will grow, explore, and challenge themselves.

The goal isn’t simply admission—it’s finding the place where a student will truly belong.

Are you an American family living abroad starting the college planning process?
I specialize in working with expatriate families around the world to navigate U.S. and international university admissions. Schedule a free intro session, and I’d be happy to talk about how I work with students and families and answer your questions.

Learn more about my U.S. Expat College Counseling Services here

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.

Are U.S. Expats Considered International Students?

At most U.S. universities, citizenship—not where a student lives or attends school—determines whether the applicant is classified as domestic or international. However, your application is often read with the international applications.

At most colleges, your application will be read by the international admissions team responsible for your region and more familiar with the school curricula and other aspects related to student life in that area. It makes sense that your application would be read in the context of where you are attending school. You would be compared more to the students in your region. However, when it comes down to choosing an expat vs a true international student, you often have the advantage as you are eligible for federal aid and do not have the burden of providing proof of finances or eligibility for visa. New policies limiting visa periods and suggested caps on international students would not apply to U.S. expats as they have citizenship.

Although you are not an ‘international student’, you have the benefit of the international experience and hopefully language skills you have gained while living outside of the US. These are great assets to highlight in your applications. How has your international experience shaped you? What can you bring from this to your future campus? I help guide my students to focus on and add activities to their resume which will enhance their application and demonstrate their uniqueness. We also find creative ways to include these international experiences in their essays.   

Our next post in our U.S. expat college consulting series focuses on how to apply for financial aid as a U.S. expat.

Tips for Remote Campus Visits

Choosing the right college is a monumental decision, and while the traditional campus visit is definitely the best option, it is not always possible. Working with international students, I have many families who are not able to make the trip to the US to tour campuses before making their college decision. Often, even if a student does have the opportunity to tour colleges, they don’t have the time or financial resources to visit all of the schools on their college list. Sometimes, the first time they set foot on campus is when they arrive for freshman orientation. While this is not ideal, there are many ways a student can get to know their future college without physically visiting. Exploring campuses virtually allows high school students to gather valuable insights and make informed decisions about their academic future. To make the most out of this unique experience, here are some tips for navigating remote campus visits.

1.     Create a Virtual Tour Checklist: Start by thoroughly researching the colleges you're interested in and create a checklist of elements you want to explore during your virtual tour. This could include academic buildings, dormitories, recreational areas, and any specific features that matter to you.

2.     Attend Virtual Information Sessions: Most colleges offer virtual information sessions that cover a range of topics, from academic programs to campus life. Attend as many sessions as you can to get a comprehensive understanding of what each college has to offer. Take notes during these sessions to help you remember key details.

3.     Engage in Virtual Q&A Sessions: Seize the opportunity to ask questions during live Q&A sessions. Whether it's about the admission process, financial aid, or student life, engaging with college representatives will provide you with valuable insights. Prepare a list of questions in advance to make the most of these interactive sessions.

4.     Connect with Current Students and Alumni: Many colleges arrange virtual meetings with current students or alumni. Take advantage of these sessions to gain authentic perspectives on campus life. Ask about their experiences, challenges, and what they love (and maybe hate) most about the college. You can also use LinkedIn to connect with alumni. This personal touch can be invaluable in making your decision.

5.     Utilize Social Media and Online Forums: Explore college social media pages, student groups, and online forums where current students share their experiences. Don’t be afraid to reach out to students on your own to get different opinions and more information. Many schools such as Bucknell and Chapman have student takeovers on Instagram to give real glimpses into student life. There are also plenty of YouTube and TikTok videos out there. Social media can provide endless insight into the day-to-day life of students, helping you understand the culture of each campus.

6.     Schedule One-on-One Virtual Meetings: If possible, schedule one-on-one virtual meetings with admission counselors or professors of interest. This personalized interaction can offer tailored information and address specific concerns you might have. It's also an excellent opportunity to make a connection and demonstrate interest.

7.     Investigate the Off-Campus: Getting to know the college town and surrounding area is also something to take into consideration. Take a look at online newspapers, social media pages and even Google Maps to research what is in the area, how the relationship between the university and town is, crime levels, and potential off campus housing and local entertainment options. Depending on the college location and campus life, the off-campus can be very important.

8.     Seek Out Online Campus Tours and Videos: Many colleges provide virtual campus tours and videos that offer a dynamic perspective of the campus. Explore these resources to get a sense of the atmosphere and layout. Some colleges such as Carnegie Mellon actually offer Live Virtual Tours with student ambassadors so you have a chance to ask questions and request views of certain places on campus.

9. Compare and Contrast: As you visit multiple campuses remotely (and live), create a system for comparing and contrasting each college. Consider factors such as academic programs, extracurricular activities, campus culture, and any unique features that stand out to YOU. This will help keep your thoughts organized as the details tend to run together after several visits.

While remote campus visits may not replicate the on-site experience entirely, they provide an invaluable opportunity for high school students to explore their college options. Even if you do have the opportunity to visit campus, these tips can help with your college search too. By actively engaging with virtual resources, attending sessions, and connecting with current students, you can gather the information needed to make an informed decision about your academic journey. Remember, each effort you make to engage with and research your potential colleges brings you one step closer to finding the college that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

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Additional Resources:

Travel and Leisure Best College Towns and Cities

Virtual Tours on Appily (YouVisit)

The College Tour - YouTube channel with real students and stories

Digital SAT Tips

The digital SAT has debuted internationally and will most likely remain the only form available for international students from now on. Many are a bit apprehensive after witnessing CollegeBoard’s struggles with digital AP exams in recent years, but so far the feedback has been mostly positive.

Here is a quick breakdown of the primary differences between the two test formats:

WHERE and WHEN:

The test is still required to be taken at a school or official test center. However, the possibility of more test dates and flexibility in test centers scheduling them may make it easier for students to find a test date that fits their schedule and location. For international students, this could make a big difference as their previous test dates and locations were more limited. Students will register for the test on the CollegeBoard site as they did previously, however the new schedule for Fall/Winter 2023-24 has not been released yet. Students who have signed up for the Spring/Summer dates at international sites will already have the digital format. The digital format will be implemented in the US starting Fall 2023 for PSAT and Spring 2024 for SAT.

COMPUTERS and CALCULATORS:

Students can bring their own tablets or laptops or they can use those provided at the test site. It is beneficial for the student to bring their own device as they will be more familiar with it and provided laptops are limited. Graphing calculators will also be built in to the test, so students who feel comfortable using those can leave their own at home. The Desmos calculator which is built in is a great tool for students who are familiar with it, but if they are not, it is recommended to bring their own. Students will still be provided scratch paper and can use a pen/pencil to work on solutions as needed.

Before test day, students need to download the Bluebook App to their testing device. They should make sure it is sucessfully installed and familiarize themselves with it.

VERBAL SECTION:

The verbal section of the SAT will now have much shorter passages, mostly just a few sentences, as they are limited to how much text will fit on a computer screen. Students will only answer a single question about a short passage and then move on to another entirely different one. It would be beneficial to do some practice questions to get used to the format.

ADAPTIVE TESTING:

A major change with the digital SAT is the new adaptive testing model. Now, students will face different sets of questions based on the accuracy of how they answered the first module of each section. There are two possible levels of questions the students will receive and the highest score possible on the SAT will be different based on which level of questions they get. You can read more about this model here. Don’t be alarmed, it is not a sudden switch to much more difficult questions if you get the higher level for your second module. There is still a balance in the difficulty of the questions. The test prep experts at Applerouth who have seen more of the new test have assured me that students actually have to get a lot of incorrect answers to get the ‘lower’ level of questions. It also shouldn’t be looked at as a disadvantage. Instead of having these students struggle and lose time with harder questions, they are able to focus their energy on questions more appropriate for their level. Everyone gets to take a shorter test and spend more time on each question with this new model.

NEW TOOLS:

There are a few tools available within the digital format that can definitely help students. Students could practice making use of these tools to test more efficiently. My favorite two are:

Answer Eliminator – a tool to eliminate answers students deem as incorrect from view so they can focus on the remaining answers

Question Flag – students can now flag questions within a section for further review later.

TEST PREP:

As the new format has not been out long, most test prep companies have not done a lot of updating to their materials. When searching for a test prep company, I definitely recommend asking them how they have adapted their materials. Many of the tutors and companies do not have experience with the new test or access to materials to prepare students for the digital SAT. However, the official CollegeBoard site now has digital SAT prep materials available for free. Also, Applerouth has done a great job of getting materials ready for digital SAT prep.

The international ACT has been digital for years and as with the paper format, it is much different than the SAT. Students should consider taking a practice test for both the ACT and SAT to decide which test is the best for them.