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What is EducationUSA?
Global network of more than 450 advising centres in 170 countries supported by the US Department of State. Primary source of information for potential under- and post-graduate students and scholars around the world who seek access to US higher education. EducationUSA advising centre is based in the Fulbright Commission in Dublin.
4. Funding Opportunities
www.communitycollegesusa.com
www.petersons.com
Applying to US Colleges
Timeline
Typical Timeframe
Spring / Summer - End of 4th early 5th year Autumn of 6th year Before Semester Holiday Autumn of 6th year After Semester Holiday Spring of 6th year Summer after 6th year Aug. / Sept.
Notes
Learn about US higher education and application process Begin choosing universities Finalise your selection of 4-6 universities Register for admissions exams Begin admissions and funding applications Submit admissions applications Submit funding applications Receive admissions decisions Notify universities Apply for your visa Read the Pre-Departure Section of Fulbright website. Begin study in the US!
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University of United Manchester Kingdom Pohang University of Republic of Science and Korea Technology Brown University Tsinghua University Ohio State University Boston University Kyoto University United States China United States United States Japan
70.1
50
69.4
51 52 53 54 54 56
Ohio State University ranks #53 in the world according to the Times Higher Education Rankings 2012 2013
Remember, though, there are no official college rankings in the US!
University of United Southern States California King's College London Katholieke Universiteit Leuven cole Normale Suprieure Seoul National University Pennsylvani a State University United Kingdom Belgium
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66.2
58
66.1
59
65.9
59
65.9
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Teachers, professionals in your field, or alumni University websites Accreditation: www.chea.org US News and World reports, Princeton Review, College Board
Cost of Attendance
Tuition and fees can vary significantly between universities May be a set semester/yearly rate or calculated on a percredit basis Cost of living: books, personal expenses = $8,500 - $10,000 Awarded on basis of: Academic merit Financial need Niche criteria Athletic ability In State vs. Out of State? Applies to public (State) schools. Gives discounted tuition to people from that state. Does not typically apply to international students.
1. Personal/family funds
2. Loans 3. Scholarships and merit and need-based aid from US universities 4. Scholarships from external organisations
Admissions Tests
Admissions Tests
Admissions Tests are intended to supplement, not replace, students high school records. Leaving Cert is still important and, typically, required.
Sit SAT/ACT in 5th Year, if possible, and again in 6th Year if a higher score or subject tests are required Options: - SAT Subject Tests - ACT & ACT with Writing (no test site in Ireland ..yet!) - English-language proficiency exam (if required)
SAT: www.collegeboard.org
Reasoning test sections : Critical Reading, Math, Writing
Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Testing sites:
England: ACS Hillingdon International School (Hillingdon-Middlesex), TASIS England (Thorpe Surrey), Marymount International School (Surrey) Scotland: International School of Aberdeen
An Application to a US College
Application form including CV and two or three essays Admissions exam scores SAT / ACT Transcript and/or school report
Youve narrowed the search so now you must ensure you meet the minimum academic requirements and put together a carefully considered application package!
Application fee
2-3 recommendation letters Leaving Certificate Results
Application Form
Completed online and will personal essays and CV Personal attributes: Interest in your academic field of choice Character Leadership abilities Reasons for wanting to attend the university Each university has their own individual online application except for those using the Common Application
Very important Opportunity to set yourself apart and showcase your unique qualities as an applicant 1-3 essay questions per university Likely able to re-use elements of essays for different universities
Use clear, concise language Address the essay question fully Avoid vague or empty statements, clichs and cultural references that may not translate well to a US audience
If you re-use an essay, be careful to double-check that all references within the text are to the correct university
Proofread extensively Most importantly, be yourself! Dont give the admissions officers the answers you think they want to hear; give them the truth.
Transcripts
Listing of your academic qualifications and marks (3rd 6th Years)
Provide your school / guidance counsellor with information about what to include in a transcript: Junior Certificate results Predicted Leaving Certificate results Academic honors Information about other qualifications earned Information about the school Years attended
Recommendations
Ask someone who knows you well, both in and out of the classroom
Letter should be a marketing tool for you as an applicant Consider meeting with your referee to discuss letter Make sure referee is aware of deadlines and paperwork to complete Above all, encourage referees to be enthusiastic, positive, descriptive, and anecdotal and avoid being restrained and too modest
Visas
F-1 Student Visa or J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa Generally, straight-forward process in Ireland:
Once accepted receive your I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) from the US university Complete SEVIS application (I-901) and pay fee ($200) online Complete visa application and pay fee ($160/136) online Schedule an interview at the US Embassy in Dublin
EducationUSA Services
US Study Website - Advisory Services: Comprehensive information on undergraduate / postgraduate study in the US is available through: www.educationusa.info or www.fulbright.ie Email / Phone Queries E-Alerts: Sent out on a regular to students, parents, and career advisors updating you on advising tips, US study information, and events/seminars that EducationUSA will be organising.
For all services please contact Joanne at: educationusa@fulbright.ie / 01.660.7670 www.fulbright.ie Twitter: Fulbright_Eire / Facebook: Fulbright Ireland / LinkedIn: Fulbright Ireland