When candidates apply to foreign universities, institutions assess not only the applicants’ SAT scores, but also a range of other factors. In other words, the SAT score is just one of the elements that can give you a competitive advantage. Let’s take a look at other important aspects that you should consider alongside your SAT results.
High School GPA
The grade point average (GPA) you earned in high school is one of the main elements reviewed by many universities. Each institution has its own approach and criteria regarding GPA. Therefore, students should research universities carefully and pay attention to their expectations in terms of average grades. Your academic performance in high school also reflects your enthusiasm for learning and level of responsibility, which makes it a significant factor in the application process.
Recommendation Letter
Many universities go beyond evaluating just GPA and test scores and also review letters of recommendation submitted by students. For this reason, candidates should ensure they obtain a recommendation letter from an academic institution or workplace that accurately represents them and creates a strong impression. Recommendation letters help admission officers better understand a student’s character, ability to collaborate, and leadership potential.
Personal Essay
When universities are deciding between students with similar academic results, they often look at the personal essay. This means a well-written essay can help you stand out in such situations and elevate your application. Through the essay, candidates can demonstrate their passion for learning and growth, as well as their self-expression and critical thinking skills. These essays also reveal the student’s ability to conduct research and present information clearly and effectively.
Participation in Activities
The events, seminars, and conferences that applicants have participated in also play an important role. Being active in such activities shows that the student is engaged and strives to improve their skills and knowledge in various fields. Participation in international education fairs, scientific conferences, or other educational and developmental events reflects the student’s motivation to grow in their chosen field and acquire new knowledge. These experiences also contribute to personal and professional development and enhance the applicant’s compatibility with the academic program.
Each of the above-mentioned elements has an impact on the admission decision, and the weight of each factor varies from one university to another. During the preparation stage, students should not focus solely on the SAT exam but should also understand that other elements influence the final outcome and should be properly managed as part of the application strategy.
