Grade 12 learners interested in studying in the United States or the United Kingdom in 2020 should be preparing for their applications now.
A study conducted by the Institute of International Education found that 90 per cent of employers believe that students with international accreditation have better traits and skills, such as maturity, improved communication skills, flexibility, cross-cultural awareness and independence.
So if you are looking at the option of studying aboard, Rebecca Pretorius country manager for Crimson Education said, “When it comes to applying to study in the US or UK you should ideally give your application an 18-month lead time.”
She added the application process takes up a lot of time. It can add pressure on learners as they need to focus on making decisions on career choice and studying for their exams. “While applications for international universities open in October, you need to plan well in advance to make sure that you’ve got all the areas of your application covered, not just academics. The earlier you start preparing, the better.”
If you have it started the process yet, Pretorius provided a roadmap for admissions in the US and UK for 2020:
- May to September 2019: Research the application process and familiarise yourself with the universities you want to apply for. Look out for information on accommodation, financing, and deadline requirements
- Between June and December 2019: Begin your preparation for the required admission tests such as the scholastic aptitude test (SAT) in the US and the UK the admission tests which take place from July to October
- July to September 2019: Prepare for the October and November applications. It is required to have a reference letter from teachers or counsellors. Give yourself enough to write, edit and proofread your applications and essays before you send them. If you meet the shortlist, make your decision as soon as you can
- November 2019 to January 2020: Prepare for your video interviews. These happen around January and March, feedback from your chosen universities should begin around this time
- May 2020 to July 2020: If you are accepted, research for possible scholarships and student loan options as studying abroad will likely be more expensive and apply as soon as you can for a student visa
- July 2020 to August 2020: Book your flight and arrange for an international debit/credit and photocopy all your documents before you leave.
Crimson will be hosting an event for parents and learners thinking of applying to the top universities abroad.
The event will take place on 30 May at 6.30pm at Protea Hotel Balaika, Maude Street, Sandown, Sandton.
For more, click here
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