Your US Admissions Checklist
5 steps to start 12 months before enrollment — for international families.
12 months out
- Define your goal: high school, bachelor's, transfer (associate → 4-year), or master's.
- Build a budget band (tuition + living + visa fees) and note whether financial aid is critical.
- Start English test planning (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo) if required; check SAT/ACT policy for target schools.
9 months out
- Shortlist 8–12 schools by fit (program, location, cost, international support).
- Request transcripts and recommendation letters; align grading to US GPA expectations.
- Track application portals and early-action / regular deadlines per school.
6 months out
- Submit applications; prepare essays and activity lists.
- Apply for scholarships and complete FAFSA/CSS if eligible.
- Prepare visa documents (I-20, financial proof, passport validity).
3 months out
- Compare admission offers; confirm enrollment deposit.
- Schedule visa interview; arrange housing and health insurance.
- Book travel and orientation dates.
Document checklist
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Academic transcripts + translations
- English proficiency scores
- Bank / sponsor financial statements
- Admission letter & I-20 (or DS-2019)
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