AS much as studying abroad is a welcome opportunity, it is not something that one should rush into without adequate relevant preparation. Here are some factors that are a must for the success of an application.
One of the first steps to ensure a successful application is to take the mandatory standardized entrance tests. The applicant should concentrate on and pass these exams, which include TOEFL, SAT, GRE, or GMAT depending on the course applied for. He should sit for the exams well in advance of the expected admission time.
The applicant needs to choose about three references to write recommendation letters. He should tell them exactly the course he is applying for and give them a summarized version of his accomplishments. His best references are usually his teachers who have good knowledge of his academic performances and he should ensure that the references prove they are authentic. Whether the references send the recommendation letters directly or via the student, the documents should be sealed and signed in ways that indicate they have not been tampered with. The references should be in a position to explain with clarity his strong points and achievements in chosen areas of study.
It is in his best interest to request the institutions he has previously attended to send transcripts directly to the university he is applying to as this confirms authenticity.
The applicant should take enough time to write a clear personal statement or essay. In addition to demonstrating how focused he is, the essay will indicate his command of written English. He should be able to demonstrate authoritatively why he should study in the US. The essay shows the university his ability directly from him. He should seek professional help if necessary. However, let him not trust someone else to craft that important document entirely for him. The person helping will not have to face the university's administration and neither will he study, hence, in addition to leaving out some crucial points, discrepancies will become apparent pretty early resulting in the doubting of one's credibility.
