Hello, I'm a high school junior from outside the US, and I'm considering applying to colleges in the United States. Can anyone help me understand how colleges evaluate international students? Are there any specific aspects of my application that I should focus on? Thanks for any advice!
Hi there! It's great that you're considering applying to colleges in the US. Colleges typically evaluate international students in a similar manner to domestic students, but there are a few additional factors they might consider. One important aspect is English proficiency, so it's a good idea to take the TOEFL or IELTS if English isn't your first language. The better your scores, the more competitive your application will be. Additionally, you should focus on maintaining a strong academic record, as colleges will look at your grades and the rigor of your coursework. AP, IB, or A-level courses can be particularly helpful to show that you're capable of handling college-level work. Extracurricular activities are also important, so try to get involved in clubs, sports, or community service to demonstrate your skills and interests outside of the classroom. Finally, strong recommendation letters from your teachers and a well-written personal essay can help you stand out from the competition. Best of luck with your college application process!
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