International Students: Study at America’s Top Colleges
Work with a qualified college admissions counselor in the US
Prestigious American colleges and universities, from Berkeley to Duke to Harvard to Stanford to hundreds of other colleges around the country, are committed to building a community that includes the best minds from around the world. In the United States, there are more than a million enrolled international students.
International students applying to college in the U.S. as an undergraduate will find there are many pieces to the application process. It’s helpful to navigate the college application process with an experienced college counselor who understands all that is required to help gain acceptance to the college or university where the student will be successful.
If you are thinking about coming to the United States for your education, a SpanOne College Admissions Counselor can help you navigate the college application process. We CONNECT international parents and students with a personal advisor from our qualified network to ASSESS their situation, create a unique PLAN of action, and work with the student to IMPLEMENT it so he or she can put best foot forward to gain admission into their university of choice.
A SpanOne Advisor will provide you with personalized guidance before and during the college admissions process. This includes building a student profile, developing a college list, reviewing international transcripts, planning standardized tests, developing essays, and submitting applications.
Your journey to study in the United States begins here!
What Parents Are Saying About Our College Counselors
Sanjay Gaur (Kuwait)
"As a parent of international student, I was not fully aware of the process and competitiveness associated with getting into top colleges in the US. Our SpanOne's College Admissions Counselor, Ms. Chiristine, guided us step by step through the complete college research and applications. To our surprise, our son got into top rated undergraduate business school, his first choice. I have already recommended SpanOne to some of my friends."
Rajeshwar Rao (India)
"Peter, you are more than a counselor. You guided our daughter and us so well through the college application preparation and choosing right colleges. We were pleasantly surprised that she got into her dream college, Emory University. She will always appreciate your help and support. Once again, thank you!"
How The SpanOne College Counseling Program Works
No matter when your student begins, our multi-year approach covers every step of the way until deciding which college offer to accept! We are dedicated to helping international students accomplish their dreams of studying at the top colleges in America.
01
Assess
Prepare
02
Plan
03
Apply
04
Your SpanOne Advisor will guide your student, step-by-step, through the complete college planning and application process:
Assess record, career goals and strengths
- Introduce you to the college planning process and timeline
- Assess academic record, test scores, extracurricular activities, and special considerations
- Explore field of study and majors
- Review admission requirements for international students, including academic and english language proficiency requirements
- Understand student and family criteria for college selection (cost, private/public, geography, small/large, other factors) and financial needs
Create a personalized college application plan with recommended strategies
- Plan and build a strong, balanced profile and resume through academics and extracurricular activities
- Develop “best fit” college list matched to student’s needs and interests
- Develop standardized test strategy and timeline
- Help prepare for college visits, fairs, and interviews
- Outline an overall strategy for your child to achieve his or her college goals
Help with the college applications
- Create an application timeline, and determine strategy for early action, early decision and regular decision
- Help student with selection of essay topics and craft essays that reflect his or her goals and achievements
- Advise on requests for letters of recommendation, scholarship applications, aids, and grants
- Guide student with completing college applications, and assist with college interview preparation
- Help with evaluation of admission and financial aid offers
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is college planning important?
College admissions have become very competitive, and admission officers are looking for more than just grades and test scores. An expert college admissions consultant and early college planning can help you reach your college goals. In addition, there are a vast array of scholarship and financial aid opportunities available to students.
Who Are SpanOne Advisors?
SpanOne advisors are a network of qualified college admissions counselors and independent college planning consultants across the United States. Many of them are former admissions staff members, graduates and other educational professionals from America's top colleges. They are best at what they do, whether it be a an Ivy League admission or getting into a small liberal arts college. In addition to relevant education, experience and expertise, they bring a passion and proven success record to help students achieve their educational goals. SpanOne Advisors will take a personalized approach to each and every student and parent.
How will a SpanOne Advisor help me?
First and foremost, your SpanOne Advisor will engage you in conversations about goals for college and career. Your Adviser can help you distinguish yourself in a highly competitive applicant pool so that you have a better chance of admission and financial aid. He or she will guide you, step-by-step, in building a strong high-school resume and completing your college applications, and will help you keep track of important dates and deadlines. Simply, your personal advisor, working one-on-one, will develop a plan that will ensure that your child is on track for success.
What are working hours of SpanOne Advisors?
SpanOne Advisors are based in the US. They will be happy to be flexible with respect to international time differences.
How are personal sessions with the advisor conducted?
Personal sessions with the advisor are done online using Skype or Zoom.
What are the language proficiency requirements to study in the U.S.?
One of the crucial aspects of applying to U.S. colleges as an international student is demonstrating proficiency in the English language. Undergraduate programs in the U.S. are taught in English. Colleges typically require proof of English language proficiency. The most commonly accepted tests are the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). These tests assess your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in English.
What are the standardized testing requirements for international students?
International students are often required to take standardized tests that assess academic readiness for college-level coursework. The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) and the ACT (American College Testing) are the two main standardized tests accepted by U.S. colleges and universities. These exams measure your proficiency in areas such as reading, writing, mathematics, and critical thinking. While some colleges may have test-optional policies, many still consider SAT or ACT scores as part of their admissions process, especially for international applicants.
Financial aid and scholarships available to international students?
Financing your education as an international student in the U.S. is a significant consideration. Many colleges and universities offer financial aid and scholarships to international students, although the availability and criteria may vary. It’s essential to research and explore all potential financial aid options early in the application process. Our counselors work with students to investigate these opportunities and advise on submitting any required applications or documents by the deadlines.
What are visa requirements to study in the U.S.?
Once you’ve been accepted to a U.S. college or university, the next step is obtaining a student visa. The most common type of student visa for international undergraduate students is the F-1 visa. To apply for an F-1 visa, you’ll need to provide proof of acceptance to a U.S. academic institution, demonstrate your family’s financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses, and complete the necessary visa application forms. It’s crucial to start the visa application process well in advance of your intended start date, as processing times can vary, and you’ll want to ensure all required documentation is in order.