How to Apply to Universities? A University Prep Guide
When it comes to applying to universities, every university is different, there is no manual when it comes to applications, however, there are similar aspects which we will discuss in this article. We have compiled below everything you need to know when applying to your desired university to help you prepare.
The first thing you need to know is the qualifications. You have to be aware of the minimum grades and scores needed to get accepted or even considered in your potential university. Whether you are an American, IGCSE, national, or any other diploma student, you will find all the information about your grades on the university’s website, they usually include every student diploma in their grade system so you will be able to find your required grades. In case you don’t, you can email or call the university to ask them yourself.
Online applications. Most universities nowadays, especially private universities, have online applications where you can create an account and apply for your desired major. This is usually the first step in your application process, after you submit your online application, you will then be guided through the university website through the rest of the steps of your application and acceptance.
Documents. Every university will ask for a set of documents for your application, these will usually include your birth certificate, school certificates for your 12 years of education
(any international diplomas must be stamped by the general department of examinations - ministry of education), and passport size pictures. There are a lot of other documents you should bring forward, however, these vary from one certificate to the other and depend on your major, so we advise you check your university’s website for accurate information.
Language tests. Most universities - private and public - will require English proficiency tests to ensure the students are capable of speaking and understanding English. These tests differ from one university to the other, some universities have their own placement tests, and others will require an IELTS or a TOEFL exam. If you don’t pass, some universities offer English classes over the summer where you can work on your English skills and retake the exam, so you should also ask about these classes just in case you need them.
Cover letter / letter of intent. Despite the fact that not many universities ask for this, but some universities, such as The American University in Cairo, do ask for one. A cover letter is usually a couple of paragraphs long, and its purpose is to show the university why you want to attend it and why you would be an addition to it. This should also include some information about you and your character, the more you show the university about you, the higher your chance of acceptance will be. However, keep it professional and link your characteristics to why you think this university is best for you.
Lastly, be well informed of the university’s fees and its installment plan. Regardless of what university you are applying for, you will be asked to pay an application fee, and after your acceptance, you will have to pay the first semester’s fees in a short period of time to save your spot, so you need to be alert to the fees and be ready to pay when asked.
How to Apply to Universities? A University Prep Guide
How to Apply to Universities? A University Prep Guide
Applying to universities can seem a little bit difficult if you don’t know where to start. Click here to know everything you need to know when applying for universities.
When it comes to applying to universities, every university is different, there is no manual when it comes to applications, however, there are similar aspects which we will discuss in this article. We have compiled below everything you need to know when applying to your desired university to help you prepare. The first thing you need to know is the qualifications. You have to be aware of the minimum grades and scores needed to get accepted or even considered in your potential university. Whether you are an American, IGCSE, national, or any other diploma student, you will find all the information about your grades on the university’s website, they usually include every student diploma in their grade system so you will be able to find your required grades. In case you don’t, you can email or call the university to ask them yourself. Online applications. Most universities nowadays, especially private universities, have online applications where you can create an account and apply for your desired major. This is usually the first step in your application process, after you submit your online application, you will then be guided through the university website through the rest of the steps of your application and acceptance. Documents. Every university will ask for a set of documents for your application, these will usually include your birth certificate, school certificates for your 12 years of education (any international diplomas must be stamped by the general department of examinations - ministry of education), and passport size pictures. There are a lot of other documents you should bring forward, however, these vary from one certificate to the other and depend on your major, so we advise you check your university’s website for accurate information. Language tests. Most universities - private and public - will require English proficiency tests to ensure the students are capable of speaking and understanding English. These tests differ from one university to the other, some universities have their own placement tests, and others will require an IELTS or a TOEFL exam. If you don’t pass, some universities offer English classes over the summer where you can work on your English skills and retake the exam, so you should also ask about these classes just in case you need them. Cover letter / letter of intent. Despite the fact that not many universities ask for this, but some universities, such as The American University in Cairo, do ask for one. A cover letter is usually a couple of paragraphs long, and its purpose is to show the university why you want to attend it and why you would be an addition to it. This should also include some information about you and your character, the more you show the university about you, the higher your chance of acceptance will be. However, keep it professional and link your characteristics to why you think this university is best for you. Lastly, be well informed of the university’s fees and its installment plan. Regardless of what university you are applying for, you will be asked to pay an application fee, and after your acceptance, you will have to pay the first semester’s fees in a short period of time to save your spot, so you need to be alert to the fees and be ready to pay when asked.
