Applying to US Colleges

The first step in the application process is deciding upon what sort of college or university would best meet your needs. Visit Assessing Your Needs to help you to decide.

Once you have a good idea of the sort of college or university you are looking for you will need to create a list of possible institutions to which to apply. Use the College Board search facility and the websites of individual colleges to help you.

Ultimately, you will need to narrow your list down to six or seven colleges or universities to which you will apply. Your choice should include 6 or 7 institutions that comprise of at least one ‘reach’, two ‘target’ and one ‘safety college. Use the Selectivity Index form to assist you in making these decisions as well as talking to your parents and teachers and visiting with the college counselor.

The information provided in this site is a general guide and you should always refer to specific college websites for information about courses, the application process, and deadlines.

As early as S4 (Grade9) you should be preparing for college in the following ways:

• Ensure that your grades are high or reflect an upward trend.
• Take an active and committed part in extra curricular activities.
• Begin visiting college websites and gaining information about what is on offer.

By the time you are in S6 (Grade 11) you should have a good idea of the sort of college that you are looking for and can make preparations for college visits, if possible. Some colleges send a representative to the region, or are able to interview you here in Zambia. Contact college admissions offices directly to find out if this is the case, and to show an interest in the college.

A clear plan for working through the application process has been produced for you and you will receive a calendar of deadlines from the counselor. Visit the Planning for College page for further information.

Once you have made your selections you are ready to make an application. Go to The Application page for details.