Applying to US colleges

Most colleges in India rely only on your exam scores, where as colleges in the US look for a well rounded student. Good exam scores are of course needed, but a strong application will also need the following:

• Consistent academic performance throughout high school (9-12)
• Decent SAT I, SAT II and TOEFL scores
• Outstanding application essay
• Stellar teacher recommendation letters
• Leadership qualities
• Extra-curricular activities (art, dance, music, theatre, debate etc)
• Sports achievements
• Social service
• Work experience

Of course, all students cannot excel at all things. A reasonable subset of the above should be enough to make a strong application. Plan ahead - say from the 10th grade onwards and try and take part in whatever activities/competitions that interest you. Do not be burdened - enjoy your time in school, but do not be too laid back!

A growing trend these days is to hire an admissions counsellor - I do not recommend it. Creating a decent application is not rocket science, save money and do it yourself. However,  you will need help choosing the right college - and the best person to talk to is Kiran Sir. The guidance I received from him was extremely useful (and free!).

Also, be sure to read this.