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Timeline
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Applying to study in the United States can be a long and complex process, so close attention should be paid to the timeline, which can help you anticipate how long your application/admission process will take. Remember, application fees can be costly; therefore, short listing universities is a good way to cut down on unnecessary costs and narrow down your choices. Also, you should pay special attention to each university's requirements in preparing your application. When you are applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you will need to begin at least one year in advance.

Following is the timeline that you are advised to follow in your application process.

May-June:

  • Decide what courses and degree you want to earn. Consult the American MidEast Leadership Network and research universities that offer the degree you want.
  • Based upon initial research of colleges, determine the exams you would need to take (GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, MCAT, Subject GRE, etc). Apply for these exams.

July-August:

  • Speak with an American MidEast Leadership Network representative, or faculty members, graduate students and professionals in your desired field, about colleges.
  • Draw up an Initial Shortlist.
  • Contact American MidEast Leadership Network for applications or send Pre-Application forms to these colleges. Or you can download the relevant sections of their websites and print out the forms from there.
  • Study for GRE, GMAT and other exams: Take diagnostic tests to evaluate potential areas of weaknesses, study word lists, and understand the basic structure of exams and the types of questions being asked.

October:

  • By now you should have almost all application forms needed;
  • Draw up a Final Shortlist of colleges you want to apply to;
  • Email current students and recent alumni of the colleges and programs you are considering;


Prepare Application packet:

  1. Make a list of potential references for letters of recommendation.
  2. Contact them.
  3. Begin drafting Statement of Purpose.
  4. Draft an academic resume.

December-January:

  • Complete and mail applications in the first week of December. (Don't forget to make a complete set of photocopies before sending.)
  • Research for financial aid and scholarships. You may consult an American MidEast Leadership Network representative, or visit our website, for more details on available scholarships.
  • Submit any forms required by colleges.
  • Make a list of the colleges you prefer to attend. This will make things easier for you in case you receive multiple offers.

May:

  • Choose a college. Confirm their offer of admission.
  • Confirm scholarship or assistance if any. If you haven't received any - Ask for it!
  • Send formal letter of rejection to the other colleges who offered you admission.
  • Study thoroughly the entire admission packet sent by the college you have chosen.
  • Research and fulfill the immunization requirements of chosen college.
  • Arrange your financial papers (if self-financed) or arrange for loans (if not.)

June-July:

  • Apply for Student Visa
  • Prepare to Leave: Arrange for tickets, do your shopping, take a credit card, arrange for foreign exchange, etc.

August:

  • Leave for US
  • Attend College Orientation
  • Study!