STUDENT RESOURCES
Standardized Tests
Among the most important milestones in applying for university in the United States are the various standardized testing requirements and options. But many people may not fully understand the importance of these tests in the admissions process and their choices. One of the admissions requirements of many US universities is the standardized test. There are two types of standardized test: (1) SAT and ACT for both domestic and international students (2) English proficiency tests for international students whose mother tongue is not English – TOEFL and IELTS. Test scores of all four exams are accepted by most of the US universities. International students will only need to take either SAT or ACT, and TOEFL or IELTS. Below are some useful links:
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The SAT–administered by the College Board
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The ACT–administered by ACT.org
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The SAT2 Subject Tests–administered by the College Board and required for entrance to the most competitive colleges and universities
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TOEFL–administered by ETS
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IELTS–administeredy by British Council and IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment
In Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority oversees the administration of the SAT and ACT exams
In China, the TOEFL examination is administered by a separate agency, NEEA TOEFL iBT Online Registration.
More US universities are going test-optional or test-flexible and no longer require applicants to submit standardized test scores. They pay more attention to the applicant’s school grades, extracurricular activities, essays, and other personal strengths and talent. If you want to know which colleges do not require SAT and ACT scores, please contact us.
US Education System
The US education system is characterized by its abundance of choice and flexibility. It offers a lot of opportunities and options for international students. Every student can find a way to achieve his academic goals and have a wonderful learning experience in the US. To know more about the education system of the US…
Common Application
Most of the top universities in the United States allow students to apply through a single, web-based application. Ostensibly, this online application makes it much easier for students to apply to multiple colleges across the country, both public and private. However, over the years, each college and university that is a member of the Common Application has found ways to customize the application for internal, institutional reasons. Each member school may have different questions and supplemental essays.
To view the Common Application and to sign up for an account, please visit their the Common Application official website.
2017-2018 Common Application Essay Prompts
Although the Common Application has nearly 700 member universities, some universities still use their own application systems, such as the University of California, which is one of the popular choices for international students.
International Baccalaureate
Many high schools in the US and in Hong Kong have adopted the International BaccalaureateDiploma Programme which is a unique curriculum requiring students to study courses across all disciplines and completing more challenging assignments. Free resources of individual IB subjects are provided by HKExcel, an education center specialized in IB education and teaching of IB exam strategies.
HKExcel Students’ Testimonials
10 INFLUENCERS OF US COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
January 23, 2023
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WHY STUDY IN THE US?
January 23, 2023
Advantages of studying in the US
Academic Excellence: US has the World’s finest post-secondary educational system, which is globally acclaimed. It is far more advanced and different than the rest of the countries. With integrated programs in traditional disciplines as well as professional fields, US proclaim academic excellence that is unmatched. US Universities spend $20,000 per year on each student compared to $7,225 in Britain, $11,572 in Australia, $12,217 in Canada.
World-Class Colleges and with Cutting-Edge Technology: US Universities are leaders in high quality education and are at the forefront of technology. US Universities have outstanding facilities like-intricate, libraries and laboratories, which are fully equipped to help students study well.
Diversity and Flexibility: With over 4,600 institutions to choose from, US has become the only country to offer the most flexible and expansive study options. Some colleges offer broad-based education like Liberal Arts education, while others provide specialized programs, and some others provide vocational or technical degrees. The academic program provide students with a variety of course and at the same time gives them the freedom to design their major / programs of study, switch fields and petition specific courses. Independent study is also available in US University to suit the individual needs.
Hands-on Training: Co-operative educational programs, internship and practical training opportunities provide valuable practical experience to student’s academic profile. These programs offer financial assistance and enhance career prospects for students.
Global Acceptability: US degrees are recognized and sought after by employers worldwide. The long-term career prospect of a student are enhanced as studying in the US boosts and develops one’s self-confidence, individual thinking and cross-cultural communication skills.
Campus Diversity: All educational institutions in US seek the presence of International students in order to provide cultural diversity and enrichment on their campuses. Students from 160 countries study in the US Universities.
Support Services: Most Universities in US have a dedicated office/help desk for International Students and Services which can provide a variety of services ranging from campus orientation to assistance in resume preparation. Personal and career counselling services are also available to help students in need.
Financial Assistance: Scholarships, fellowships and assistantships are available for eligible International students. They are also eligible to work for 20 hours a week to partially meet their expenses.
Practical Experience: Opportunities to spend an additional year in US to earn valuable, relevant work experience are also available for all the International students. In Science and Technology department, the students have 29 months (2 and half years) for gaining practical work experience (called OPT) after completing studies.
SEVEN SIGNS THAT STUDYING ABROAD MIGHT BE RIGHT FOR YOU
January 23, 2023
Studying in another country is a major highlight of college for many students. But studying abroad has its challenges—and it's not right for everyone. Before you put "great study aboard programs" on your list of top college qualities, ask yourself these questions:
Do you enjoy new experiences and meeting new types of people? When you're abroad you'll be out of your comfort zone. Customs, food, and languages will be different from what you are used to. If this sounds more exciting than intimidating, studying abroad might be right for you.
Do you rarely get homesick? Think twice if you rely on frequent communication with your parents, or can't imagine not being home for the holidays. Spending prolonged periods of time wishing you were back in familiar environs can undermine your experience in a foreign land.
Are you okay with change and uncertainty? Can you change your plans without too much anxiety? Can you stay calm when things get really confusing? Being far from home means you'll be largely on your own to resolve any difficulties. And you'll need to be able to shrug off stress.
Will time spent abroad support your academic goals? Will you get credit toward your major? Or will spending time out of the country delay graduation? If so, you might consider waiting to study abroad after you get your undergraduate degree.
Are you a diligent student and do well in your classes? Instruction in other countries will be very different from what you are used to—and may even be taught in another language. You'll have to study even more diligently, and resist treating your time abroad as a vacation.
Can you afford to go abroad? Will the expense of studying abroad put you in debt? Money worries can undermine your experience and prevent you from taking full advantage of your time in a foreign country, such as taking side trips to interesting locales.
Have you talked with people who have studied abroad? Students who have already been through the experience can vividly describe the challenges they faced and the benefits they gained. They'll likely have lots of valuable advice.
Have limited time to go abroad?
If you think a semester or two of studying abroad might not be feasible, you can look at short-term programs. Consider using your mid-term break or summer experiencing professor-guided travel, volunteer opportunities, or cultural immersion programs.
IMPORTANCE OF SAT SUBJECT TESTS
1st January 2018
SAT Subject Tests are 20 multiple-choice standardized tests given by the College Board on individual subjects. They are usually taken to improve a student’s credentials for admission to colleges in the United States.
Colleges use the SAT Subject Tests for admission, course placement, and to advise students about course selection.
Some colleges specify the SAT Subject Tests that they require for admission or placement; others allow applicants to choose which tests to take. Students typically choose which tests to take depending upon college entrance requirements.
Since the New Year has started, SAT subject test dates are also coming closer. By now, you have gained maximum knowledge of the various subjects and already studied for exams.
Before appearing for the test, you should be well aware about the structure and specifications of the test.
Specifications & Structure
Each individual test is scored on a scale of 200 to 800
Every test is a one-hour timed test
A student may take up to three SAT Subject Tests on any given date at a flat rate.
Fee in South & Central Asia- $49
There are 20 SAT Subject Tests in five general subject areas:
English
History
S. History
World History
Mathematics
Math Level 1
Math Level 2
Science
Biology E/M
Chemistry
Physics
Languages
Spanish
Spanish with Listening
French
French with Listening
Chinese with Listening
Italian
German
German with Listening
Modern Hebrew
Latin
Japanese with Listening
Korean with Listening
This is the basic information regarding the test that a student must know before appearing for the test. Now the question arises that why should one give SAT Subject Test? What is the advantage of this test?
Although, SAT subject tests are not mandatory, all Ivy-league universities i.e. the highly selective schools require 2 SAT subject scores and very few universities require 3 SAT subject scores. SAT subject test scores establish your proficiency in a subject and is therefore helpful in boosting your profile for the top universities.
SAT Subject Tests can help you show off your strengths.
Some good colleges require SAT subject tests especially when you are applying for a particular course or program.
These subject tests help you to stand out in college admissions. Admission officers get a clear picture about your subject knowledge and hence it helps them to prefer someone who is good in a particular subject over a student who hasn’t given SAT subject test. By sending Subject Test scores to colleges, you can showcase your strengths.
SAT subject test will give a message to the colleges about your interest in a specific subject. You might not score very high in your SAT because you are weak in one of its section but you might be extraordinarily intelligent when it comes to the subject or the course you are willing to take in that college.
SAT subject tests play an integral role if you’re an international student and your English is not very strong. You can use Subject Tests to show your academic strength in math, science, or other languages.
Decisions regarding admissions as well as placements are taken on the basis of SAT subject tests, hence it increases your chances of getting on-campus placements. So Subject Tests open a door of opportunities for you.
SAT subject tests are a great opportunity for bilingual or multilingual students. If you speak a language other than English, it is your golden chance to showcase your skills.
Now that you know that SAT subject tests are of great importance, start preparing well and give your best in the upcoming test. Keep checking our blogs to stay updated with relevant topics regarding studying in USA!