How to Choose US Universities as an International Student

Part 2 of our Guide to Studying in the US

With thousands of US colleges and universities to consider, international students often begin with the names they know best. But reputation and rankings are only part of the picture.

Building a strong university list starts with understanding how US universities will evaluate your student—and where they are most likely to thrive.

If your family is just beginning the process, start with Part 1 of our Guide to Studying in the US, which covers the US admissions process, planning timeline and standardised testing.

How Do US Universities Evaluate International Students?

US admissions officers regularly evaluate students from different educational systems. They understand qualifications such as GCSEs, IGCSEs, A-Levels, the IB Diploma and other national credentials.

Rather than directly comparing students across different curricula, universities consider each applicant within the context of their school, educational system and available opportunities.

That means earlier results such as GCSEs and IGCSEs can matter, as can A-Level or IB predicted grades. Admissions officers look across the student's academic record for achievement, appropriate academic rigour and, where relevant, improvement over time.

Why Does the School Profile Matter?

Because admissions officers can't know every school around the world, the school profile provides important context. Usually submitted by the student's school, it explains the curriculum, grading system, subject choices and opportunities available.

This helps universities understand not just what a student achieved, but the environment in which they achieved it.

Do International Students Need an English Proficiency Test for US Universities?

Requirements vary by university.

Students who have studied in English for several years may qualify for an exemption at some institutions, while others may require a test such as the TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo English Test. Check each university's current requirements rather than assuming the same policy applies everywhere.

How Should International Students Choose US Universities?

Your student isn't the only one being evaluated. They should be evaluating the universities, too.

Rankings can provide a starting point, but they can't tell your student where they will learn best, feel most comfortable or have the opportunities that matter to them.

When researching US universities, consider:

• Academic fit: Courses, teaching style, flexibility and opportunities
• Social fit: Campus culture, student life and community
• Location: Urban, suburban, college town or rural
• Size: Small college or large university
• Financial fit: Tuition, living expenses, travel and potential financial assistance

For an international student moving thousands of miles from home, these differences can have a significant impact on their experience.

What Are Reach, Target and Likely Universities?

A balanced list should give your student several realistic pathways.

At highly selective US universities, even exceptional academic results don't make admission predictable. That's why international students should avoid building a list dominated by famous, highly selective institutions.

Just as importantly, a likely university shouldn't simply be a backup.

Every university on the list should be somewhere your student would genuinely be happy to attend.

How Many US Universities Should an International Student Apply To?

There is no perfect number, but for many students, around 10–12 thoughtfully selected universities provides enough breadth without making the application process unmanageable.

Many US universities require supplemental application essays in addition to the Common App personal statement. International students may also be balancing final exams and applications to universities in the UK, Europe or elsewhere.

More applications aren't necessarily better. A carefully researched list is more valuable than a long one.

Build a University List Around Your Student

The strongest university list isn't necessarily the one with the most recognisable names.

It reflects your student's academic profile, interests, preferred environment and goals—along with what is financially realistic for your family.

In Part 3: How to Apply to US Universities as an International Student we'll look at what comes next: scholarships and financial aid, Early Decision and Early Action and the application mistakes international students should avoid.

Need Help Building Your Student's US University List?

Guidewell Global helps international families identify universities that fit their student's strengths, interests and goals and build a thoughtful admissions strategy.

Arrange a Complimentary Consultation

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