Anyone who wants to study in the United States should first let go of the prejudice that it is unattainable or too complicated to even attempt.
The process of applying to and enrolling in a college in the United States is often very complex and demanding. Still, more and more young people are choosing that path—and succeeding! Although the application and enrollment process is serious, that does not mean it should be avoided or approached with minimal effort. The key to success in the application and admissions process is timely and thorough preparation.
This blog is dedicated to admissions to undergraduate programs (bachelor’s studies) primarily at universities in the United States. In one of the following blogs, we will focus on graduate programs (master’s and postgraduate studies).
After completing a four-year undergraduate program in the U.S., students receive one of two degrees: BA or BSc. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) is typically awarded to students who complete programs in the humanities and social sciences, such as languages, arts, and social sciences. A Bachelor of Science (BSc/BS) is usually awarded to students who complete technical or scientific programs, such as engineering or natural sciences. Both degrees are of equal academic value and differ only by field of study.
How to apply to college in the U.S. – find out with Arte et Marte
1.EXAMS REQUIRED FOR ADMISSION
There are several types of exams you need to take to enroll in your desired university. The SAT Reasoning Test (Scholastic Aptitude Test) evaluates your academic abilities after high school. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) measures language proficiency in reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
1.1.SAT Reasoning Test (Scholastic Aptitude Test)
The United States, like many other countries, uses a standardized test designed to assess academic ability after high school and before college enrollment. This test is called the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT Reasoning). Anyone who wants to apply to U.S. universities must take the SAT. Universities around the world, such as Bocconi in Milan, also use SAT scores as a measure of academic ability. International students are not exempt and must also take the SAT.
The SAT consists of a verbal section, a math section, and a critical essay.
Verbal section
The first part is the Reading and Language Test, divided into two sections: Reading (65 minutes, 52 questions) and Writing and Language (35 minutes, 44 questions). Contrary to common belief, the verbal section of the SAT is not just a test of English proficiency, but also a test of text analysis and editing, vocabulary, and language rules. A good level of English is a prerequisite for taking the SAT, since American students take the same exam. Of course, this does not mean someone with less-than-excellent English cannot succeed, but very high scores require a very high level of language proficiency.
Math section
The second part of the SAT consists of mathematics, with sections divided based on whether a calculator is allowed. The no-calculator section is taken third (25 minutes, 20 questions), and the calculator section is taken last (before the essay). It consists of 40 questions and lasts 55 minutes.
Finally, there is the essay. This involves writing a critical analysis of a text. Students have 50 minutes for the essay, and it is optional, although many universities require it.
Each of the two main sections is scored from a minimum of 200 to a maximum of 800 points, making the total maximum score 1600. The essay is graded on three criteria: reading, writing, and analysis. Two graders evaluate the essay with scores from 1–4, resulting in a total of 2–8 points per criterion, or 6–24 points overall.
The SAT is administered by the College Board. In Croatia, testing centers are located in Zagreb and Split. The test can be taken five to six times per year—in October, November, December, January, May, and June.
1.2.TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
In addition to the SAT or national high school exams, international students must also take a language test to enroll in a U.S. university. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is recommended for this purpose. Some universities accept other language tests, but TOEFL is accepted by all U.S. universities, making it a safe choice.
The TOEFL test measures language proficiency in reading, listening, writing, and speaking. It lasts about three and a half hours and is quite demanding. It is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service) and is taken on a computer either in a test center or at home. In Croatia, it can be taken in Zagreb and Split. The cost is 220 USD.
1.3.Duolingo
Duolingo is a standardized online test that assesses English language proficiency and is increasingly accepted by universities for admission purposes. It evaluates writing, reading, listening, speaking, and proper use of English. The test is taken from the comfort of your home or another quiet location with a stable internet connection. The cost is 49 USD (plus applicable taxes).
Students who have completed the last two years of their education in English (for example, through the IB program or exchange programs) may be exempt from language testing. Each university decides this independently, so it is important to check specific requirements.
2.DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR APPLICATION
2.1.High school transcripts
Application documentation for universities is extensive and often time-consuming to gather. The basic documents required for undergraduate admission in the U.S. include high school transcripts from all four years, as well as a final graduation certificate.
Taking the SAT does not replace the national high school graduation exam in Croatia. The national exam is still required. Admission is conditional, meaning enrollment is only confirmed after completing secondary education. Transcripts must be officially translated and certified. It is also necessary to convert grades into the U.S. 4.0 GPA (Grade Point Average) system.
2.2.Letters of recommendation
In addition to transcripts, letters of recommendation are required. The number varies depending on the university, typically between one and three academic recommendations (from a principal, teacher, or professor). Additional recommendations (from coaches, mentors, employers, or others) may also be included.
Athletes are encouraged to include a coach’s recommendation. Applicants to religious institutions may need a recommendation from a religious official. These letters are very important, as they provide insight into the candidate’s abilities and character.
2.3.Motivation letter
Applicants are often required to submit written responses such as essays or a personal statement. These are limited in length and reveal not only writing ability but also motivation, thinking, and future plans.
2.4.Application form
Most universities allow you to submit documents through their own application systems. However, if the university accepts the Common Application, this is often easier, as your information can be shared across multiple institutions. This saves time, although each university still has its own additional questions and requirements.
2.5.Additional documentation
Depending on the university, additional documents may be required. Scholarship applications often require financial documentation, such as bank statements, which can vary widely.
3.APPLICATION TYPES AND DEADLINES
There are several types of applications, depending on deadlines.
3.1.Regular Decision
Regular Decision deadlines are usually around New Year or January (though this varies by university). This is the deadline by which all documents must be submitted and application fees paid (usually around 100 USD per application). You can apply to up to 20 universities.
3.2.Early Decision
Some universities offer Early Decision or Early Action deadlines, typically in October or early November.
With Early Decision, you apply to only one university, signaling it is your top choice. If accepted, you are expected to enroll. If not accepted, you can still apply to other universities during the regular deadline.
3.3.Rolling admission
Some universities offer rolling admissions, meaning applications are accepted continuously. Check each university’s website for availability.
4.FINANCING STUDIES IN THE U.S.
Finances are often less of a barrier than they seem. Many universities offer partial or full financial aid, including need-blind and need-based scholarships.
4.1.Need-blind scholarships
Need-blind admissions consider your application without regard to financial status. If accepted, your financial need is then assessed separately. For U.S. citizens, this often includes full financial support. For international students, only a few elite institutions offer this.
Need-blind, however, does not mean that all study costs will be fully covered by the university. A student’s contribution to financing their education is determined based on their parents’ income, and in some cases the university may suggest taking out a student loan for part of the costs or working while studying. The average income of most parents in Croatia would cover only a small portion of these expenses, which is why our students often receive full scholarships under need-blind admissions.
4.2.Need-based scholarships
Need-based scholarships are awarded based on demonstrated financial need. Again, they do not necessarily cover the full cost of study and can vary significantly from one university to another, so it is best to check what kind of financial aid for international students is offered by the university you are interested in.
4.3.Merit-based scholarships
These are awarded based on achievements—academic, artistic, or athletic. Competition is strong, so presenting yourself well through essays and documents is crucial.
There are also scholarships targeted at specific regions, interests, or fields of study.
Overall, preparation is key. The process requires time, attention, and multiple steps, but it is achievable. It is not impossible, unattainable, or overly difficult. The effort is worth it when your goals become reality. We are here to help you through every step of preparation and application. Good luck!
