Preparing your application

It is difficult to compare the American assessment system one-to-one with the Netherlands. American universities have a holistic admissions policy, which means that the admissions committee not only looks at your grades and test scores, but also at your interests, pursuits, and ambitions. It is wise to familiarize yourself with the requirements well in advance.

As a prospective student from a non-English-speaking country, you must at least demonstrate a sufficient command of English to study in an academic setting. Most American educational institutions want you to take an English language test for this purpose. You can choose from several language tests, including the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo that you take online or at a test center in the Netherlands.

Some of the American universities require a score on one of the standardized admission tests — usually the SAT or the ACT. Which test you need to take depends on the university, the field of study, and the level of study to be pursued. In addition, each university has its own requirements for minimum test scores to be achieved. Familiarize yourself with the tests about 1.5 years before departure.

Your grade point average is part of university admission requirements, so universities ask for your grade transcripts from your high school. Since you come from a different school system, the university also likes to receive further context about your education and grade level. You often process this information in a school profile. This document, along with your original grade lists, is sent to the university by your school.

Many universities ask for letters of reference from your teachers, sports coach, or other mentors. In terms of content, it is important that the letter paint a complete picture of your skills, personality, and talents. To do this, approach a number of referees who know you well and can paint a good picture of your skills and development. Your references then send their letter directly to the American university.

More and more universities are using the Common Application, a central application system that allows you to send an application (and many of the above documents) to multiple universities. There are also alternatives such as the Coalition App or other applications.

The CSS Profile is used by many universities to apply for financial aid. These scholarships are provided based on family income. Please note that deadlines may vary, and it takes a few days of work to fill out all the information for the CSS Profile.

Some degree programs ask for a portfolio. This may be a degree program in the arts, but technical programs, such as MIT, for example, may also require you to submit a maker portfolio. With a portfolio, you give the university a better idea of your talents.