How do I apply to a U.S. college as an international freshman?

An international freshman usually means a student who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and is applying to start a bachelor’s degree right after secondary school, without having enrolled in a university degree program after graduation.

If you are still in high school, or you graduated recently but have not started college full-time, you will usually apply as a first-year applicant. Exchange students and transfer applicants follow different processes.

The basic steps are usually: build a college list, check each school’s international admissions page, complete the application, submit transcripts, provide school reports and recommendation letters if required, send test scores if applicable, show English proficiency if required, and submit financial aid documents if you need aid.

Most colleges use platforms like the Common Application or their own application portal. You will usually need your academic history, activities, personal essay, and sometimes supplemental essays.

For academics, colleges typically want your secondary school transcript in the original language and sometimes an English translation. Some may ask for predicted exam scores or national exam results. Requirements differ by country, so always check the college’s country-specific guidance.

For English, schools may require TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test if your schooling has not been primarily in English. Some colleges waive this requirement under certain conditions.

If you need financial aid, international students often must submit additional forms such as the CSS Profile or a college-specific financial statement.