Checklist for Applying to US Universities Across All Intakes

Checklist for Applying to US Universities Across All Intakes: Studying at prestigious universities in USA is a dream of many students. According to the Open Doors 2024 Report, over 3 lakh Indian students are enrolled in US institutions, accounting for 29.4% of the total international student population. As a result, USA is constantly ranked among the dominant study destinations for study-abroad aspiring students. However, applying to the popular universities and colleges in USA requires a list of documentation. Every student, applying to study in USA must learn the Checklist for Applying to US Universities Across All Intakes.

Explore IELTS Online Courses

Checklist for Applying to US Universities Across All Intakes

• Passport : Students applying for the universities in USA should apply for a passport well in advance. A passport is one of the important documents following the checklist for applying to US universities across all intakes. A valid passport is necessary before you schedule your entrance exams.
• Resume : Prepare a good resume including your educational qualifications, work experience, achievements, internships, extracurricular activities, and more.
• Letter of Recommendation : Many US universities demand a LOR for international students. Students can submit letters of recommendation from their professors or managers. Depending on your course, you may need 2-3 recommendation letters. Some universities require recommenders to submit the letters directly to the admissions department online, while others may request hard copies of the LORs.
• Proof of funds : All students who are seeking admission in USA must demonstrate a strong economic background and proof of finance to apply for admission. Students can submit their bank statements, parent’s bank statements, scholarship letters, sponsorship letters, etc to demonstrate they have enough money to continue their living expenses till the duration of their studies.
• Academic Transcripts : Whether you are applying for an undergraduate degree, master’s degree, PhD, or diploma programmes, submission of academic transcripts including mark sheets of 10th, 12th, bachelor’s, or any other academic achievement is required to calculate your GPA for the required courses.
• Statement of Purpose : The Statement of Purpose is a critical part of your university application that outlines your academic and professional background, career goals, and reasons for choosing a specific program and university. It provides the admissions committee with insights into your motivation, personality, and fit for their program.
• Entrance exam scorecards : Students are required to submit their scorecards for various standardized exams. Many universities in USA require GMAT, GRE, SAT, MCAT, LSAT, and ACT results to admit international students.
• English Language Proficiency test scores : Students from non-English-speaking countries are required to provide scorecards from recognized English language proficiency exams. Many universities in the USA accept results from tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, OET, and others for admitting international students.
• Work Experience Letters: Work experience letters are often a vital part of your university application, especially for programs that value practical experiences, such as MBA, professional master's degrees, or certain graduate programmes.
• Certificates for extra-curricular activities: Students who have records in various extra-curricular activities can attach relevant certificates supporting their application.

Also Check:

• USA Study Visa Requirements, Types, Costs, Documents
• Study Masters in USA, Top Universities, Courses, Cost of Study
• USA Grading System
• CMA USA Course, Scholarships, Eligibility, Fees, Career Opportunities

Checklist for Applying to US Universities Across All Intakes for Undergraduate Programmes

Also Check

• Fall Intake in USA 2025, Timeline, Planning, Universities
• Ivy League Universities Ranking and Fees for USA
• Which USA Intake is Better for International Students: Fall or Spring

Checklist for Applying to US Universities Across All Intakes for Masters Programmes

• Passport
• Resume or CV
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendation
• Entrance Exam Scorecards – GRE / GMAT / MCAT / LSAT
• Proof of English Language Proficiency Scores
• Transcripts for Bachelor’s Degrees or Equivalent
• Other Academic Transcripts
• Mark Sheets and Pass Certificates
• Work Experience Letters (if any)
• Certificates for Extra-curricular Activities
• Research Proposal / Any Portfolio (for specific courses)
• Proof of Funds

Checklist for Applying to US Universities Across All Intakes Important Tips

1. Research and Shortlist Universities

• Identify universities offering your desired program.
• Check eligibility criteria, program structure, tuition fees, and location preferences.
• Note down application deadlines for your chosen intake.

2. Standardized Tests

• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for demonstrating English proficiency.
• GRE/GMAT (if applicable): Check whether your program mandates these scores.
• Schedule tests early to account for retakes if needed.

3. Prepare Academic Documents

• Official transcripts and degree certificates.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Tailor it to each university.
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR): Obtain at least two to three from academic or professional referees.
• Resume/CV: Highlight academic achievements, internships, and relevant experiences.

4. Financial Planning

• Calculate the total cost, including tuition, living expenses, and application fees.
• Arrange funding through personal savings, scholarships, or education loans.
• Research university-specific scholarships and external funding options.

5. Application Submission

• Create accounts on application portals (e.g., Common App, university websites).
• Fill out the application forms accurately.
• Upload required documents.
• Pay application fees.

6. Track Application Status

• Monitor emails and application portals for updates.
• Respond promptly to requests for additional documents or interviews.

7. Visa Application

• Obtain an I-20 form from your chosen university.
• Pay the SEVIS fee and book your visa appointment.
• Prepare for the visa interview.

8. Pre-Departure Preparations

• Book flight tickets.
• Arrange accommodation.
• Attend pre-departure orientation (if offered).
• Purchase health insurance.

Also Check:

• Spring Intake in USA Timeline 2025
• List of Top Universities & Colleges for each Intake in USA
• Which USA intake is better for international students: Fall or Spring