International Students: Common App Usage Explained

International students can apply to multiple universities in the United States through the Common Application, also known as the Common App. The Common App is an online portal that enables students to apply to more than 1,000 member institutions. International applicants comprised between 4% and 5% of the overall Common App applicant pool in the last eight years, with a 63% increase in international students using the Common App over a nearly decade-long period.

International students applying through Common App rose by 63% between 2014-15 and 2020-21

International students applying to colleges in the US through the Common App rose by 63% between the 2014-15 and 2020-21 academic years. The Common App is an online portal that enables students to apply to multiple colleges at once using a common application form. This increase in international applicants over the six-year period is significant, with the number rising from 31,456 in 2014-15 to 51,426 in 2020-21.

The Common App is a convenient way for international students to apply to many universities in the US with just one application. This is especially beneficial for those applying from outside the US, as it simplifies the process and allows them to cast a wide net. The platform is used by over 1,000 member institutions, and students can apply to up to 20 colleges through the Common App.

The rise in international applicants using the Common App can be attributed to various factors. One reason could be the increasing globalisation of education and the desire of students to pursue higher studies in the US. Additionally, the Common App's accessibility and convenience may have contributed to its growing popularity among international students. The platform offers a streamlined application process, making it easier for students to navigate the complex US college admissions system.

The data also reveals that international applicants comprised between 4% and 5% of the overall applicant pool during the six-year period. While this may seem like a small percentage, it still equates to a significant number of students, considering the high volume of applications received by US colleges each year. Moreover, international students bring diverse skills, perspectives, and cultural backgrounds to US campuses, which is highly valued by many colleges during a time of increasing globalisation.

It is worth noting that the largest number of international applications in 2021-22 came from China, followed by India, which saw a dramatic 130% increase in applicants compared to the 2014-15 academic year. This trend underscores the growing appeal of US colleges among students from these countries and the potential impact of early decision programs, which provide faster admissions decisions but bind students to attend a particular institution without considering other offers.

International applicants comprised 4-5% of the overall applicant pool

International students can apply to US colleges through the Common App. The Common App is a common application that lets students apply to many universities at once.

Given the limited number of spots for international students, it can be challenging to gain admission to US colleges. International students are competing for these spots with applicants from over 70 countries. To increase their chances of acceptance, international students can consider applying to schools that admit a higher percentage of international students. For example, at Columbia, 17% of students admitted to the Class of 2027 were international, while at NYU, 22.2% of enrolled students come from outside the US. Additionally, international students can improve their odds of acceptance by applying with an interest in underrepresented fields. Over 50% of international students apply to college with an interest in math, computer science, engineering, or business, making these fields highly competitive. Choosing a less saturated subject can increase an international applicant's chances of admission.

International students bring diverse skills and perspectives

International students can apply to multiple universities in the United States through the Common App. This application process allows students to apply to many universities at once via a common application. However, the application process can be complex, with international students facing uncertainty over the visa application process and restrictions on eligibility for financial aid and work experience due to their foreign citizenship.

International students bring a diverse range of skills and perspectives to the campuses of American colleges and universities. They contribute to vibrant, diverse campus communities by sharing their unique cultural, political, and historical perspectives. For example, in a class discussion, international students can offer valuable examples, personal experiences, and contrasting viewpoints that enrich the learning environment for both domestic and international students. This exchange of ideas and experiences fosters cognitive growth, lowers prejudice, and enhances the quality of education and research.

The benefits of a diverse student body go beyond the classroom. International students often actively participate in campus life, bringing their own traditions and customs, and creating opportunities for meaningful cross-cultural interactions. These interactions can lead to the development of global perspectives, skills, and qualities that are valuable in a globalized world. Research has shown that exposure to individuals from different groups or backgrounds can positively impact all students, fostering intercultural competence and a sense of community internationalization.

To enhance the international student experience and promote integration, universities can implement various initiatives. These include mentoring programs that connect international students with upperclassmen and alumni, providing support for academic skills, social and emotional health, and identity development. Additionally, universities can create dedicated spaces, such as cultural centers, that expose students to diversity in educational and purposeful ways, fostering a sense of belonging for international students.

Overall, international students bring a wealth of diverse skills and perspectives that enrich the campus community and enhance the quality of education for all students. By embracing and supporting the integration of international students, universities can create a more inclusive and globally-minded environment that benefits everyone.

International applicants from China, India, Singapore, Turkey, Korea, Taiwan, and Canada

International students from China, India, Singapore, Turkey, South Korea, Taiwan, and Canada can apply to US colleges through the Common Application, or Common App. The Common App lets students apply to many universities at once via a common application.

The Common App has seen a rise in international applicants, with China and India being the two leading countries of citizenship for applicants. In the 2021-22 academic year, the remaining countries with the largest numbers of international applicants were Canada (3,080), South Korea (1,983), Turkey (873), Singapore (815), and Taiwan (706).

International applicants from these countries have varying rates of Common App usage. In the case of Singapore, 94% of applicants used the Common App, while 81% of applicants from Turkey, 79% from South Korea, 76% from China, 75% from Taiwan, 74% from India, and 74% from Canada also utilized the platform.

It is important to note that the Common App does not inquire about applicants' income or wealth. However, it does offer a fee waiver for those who meet specific criteria, and the percentage of applicants eligible for this waiver varies across countries. Additionally, early decision applications are more common among wealthier students who are less concerned about financial aid packages.

International students may have to share their parents' financial information

The Common App is a centralised application system that allows students to apply to multiple universities in the United States at once. It is a useful platform, especially for international students, as it simplifies the college application process.

When applying through the Common App, students are required to share their parents' financial information. This is because the Common App has a process where students can request a fee waiver due to financial hardship. To be approved for this waiver, students must provide financial information or proof of their financial need. This information is also shared with the federal government, which could potentially raise questions about the student's immigration status. However, it is important to note that not providing financial information may result in a denial of federal financial aid.

The Common App also provides a "fact sheet" for each participating college, which includes information such as the admissions fee for international students, standardised test requirements, and essay requirements. This allows international students to easily access important information and determine the requirements they need to meet for their desired colleges.

It is worth noting that the Common App profile is comprehensive, and students are required to provide general information, including their education history, GPA, awards, and extracurricular activities. This means that by the time international students start applying to colleges, they would have already provided most of the necessary information.

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