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AJIAL BILINGUAL SCHOOL

COLLEGE COUNSELING

HANDBOOK

2016-2017

Dareen Tawil-College Counselor

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. WELCOME

2. THE PURPOSE OF THIS HANDBOOK

3. IMPORTANCE OF HIGH SCHOOL IN THE COLLEGE PROCESS

4. AJIAL BILINGUAL SCHOOL GPA SCALE

5. THE TRANSCRIPT

6. HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

7. TYPICAL HIGH SCHOOL SCHEDULE

8. VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN CRITERIA

9. GRADUATION CEREMONY

10. AJIAL BILINGUAL SCHOOL ALUMNI

11. PLANNING FOR COLLEGE

12. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STUDENT

13. SCHOLARSHIPS

14. COLLEGE AND CAREER RESOURCES

15. THE APPLICATION PROCESS: KUWAIT UNIVERSITIES

16. THE APPLICATION PROCESS: INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITIES

17. EXTRA CURRICULAR INTERESTS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

18. RECOMMENDATION LETTERS

19. THE COMPLETE COLLEGE FOLDER

20. COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE

21. STANDARDIZED TESTING a. PSAT b. SAT I & SAT II c. TOEFL d. IELTS

22. FINANCIAL AID

23. STUDENT VISAS

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WELCOME FROM THE COLLEGE COUNSELING OFFICE

Introduction:

In hopes of allowing our students in High School at Ajial Bilingual School to find the

answers that they seek for University, this handbook will help throughout the

search process. Answers to common questions, advice, and guidance will be

provided in order to transition smoothly from High School into University.

We know that High School is a critical factor in determining your future into

University and for this reason; we hope that you focus and concentrate in your four

years of High School: Grade 9, Grade 10, Grade 11, and Grade 12. Each year of High

School, is worth 25% of your overall grade point average (GPA.). This will be

mentioned in more detail in this handbook.

To our parents:

We would like for you to be very active in your child's decision in University choices,

majors of interest, and in the University application, as well as understanding the

requirements that Universities have. We would also encourage you to allow your

son or daughter to constantly search Universities that offer majors that they are

interested in. Furthermore, they should search about activities and clubs that those

Universities offer that your child will wish to join. The more students are involved

in their University selection, the more successful they will be in their studies! We

invite you to contact us at any time during the search process in order for us to work

together and understand the needs of your child for University. Whether you have

questions about their academics, admission requirements to specific Universities,

meeting the MOHE Scholarship requirements, or you would just like to share your

expectations, do not hesitate to contact us at any time. Please also understand the

section in the handbook that outlines the student's responsibility during the whole

College Process. During the year, we will continue communicating with students

constantly regarding specific requirements, helpful tips, tools, advice and guidance

in order to have a successful preparation for University. However, they need to

understand how important their role is in order for them to reach success!

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To our students:

You have come a long way which has allowed you to reach this step in your life. This

is an exciting stepping stone that will lead you into your future. In order for you to

achieve and reach your academic and educational goals you must now start taking

ownership of this once in a lifetime opportunity. We are pleased to help and be of

assistance to you during this time. However, YOU are the one that will be going to

University. It is YOU that will be making sure you do not miss out on specific

University deadlines, and YOU that will be writing essays, and submitting

applications. You will come to find yourself becoming more independent as the

days and the months pass. Use this handbook wisely as it is a great tool that will

guide you through the University process. Whether you have begun this process,

plan to begin, or thinking about where to begin, the answers that you seek are in

here. If you cannot find the answer that you are looking for, ask your College

Counselor. We can even provide you with information that will allow you to begin

thinking of where you should start. We understand that conducting a college search

requires a lot of work, but have no fear; you have plenty of resources all around you

that you can use.

Wishing you a successful search and looking forward to helping you with this

process.

Sincerely,

Dareen Tawil

College Counselor

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THE PURPOSE OF THIS HANDBOOK

The Ajial Bilingual School College Counseling Handbook has been prepared in order

to better assist students through the complex and exciting process of college

selection and application. The Handbook provides certain guidelines that will help

students comprehend the many issues and challenges they will face in their four

years of High School and especially their last two years of High School. The

following pages ahead will serve as a road map that will guide students as they

embark on the transition from high school to college. It will be helpful only to the

extent that each student takes advantage of the information it contains.

The handbook does not replace the help of the College Counseling Office. However,

it does provide some answers to frequently-asked questions, it can help students

organize their thoughts about college and in general, it can eliminate much

confusion, if students take the time to read it and incorporate its recommendations

into their college planning. To make wise choices for the future means to be

intelligently informed. A wise decision is based on self-knowledge and an

awareness of the opportunities that are best suited to the person. If students can

find such wise direction in this Handbook, then its main function will have been

accomplished.

Why does High School play an important role in the College Process?

High School is the actual start in preparation for College. Real college preparation

begins in the 9th grade and continues through 12th grade.

You don’t have to worry too much, but it’s important to understand that during 9th

grade, things really start to count. It’s important that you get yourself on track for

success now. Start thinking in terms of the big picture: where you want to go and

what you want to do, both in college and beyond.

Use your time wisely and figure out what kind of student you are and work to

become a better one. Doing so will not only help you get into a good college; but you

will perform better once you’re there. One way to help guide you is the High School

checklist provided by your Counselor. Use this tool to check off everything you will

be working on each year of High School in order to stay on track and achieve

ultimate success!

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Ajial Bilingual School GPA Calculation Scale

GPA is calculated by multiplying grade points earned by credits. See example

below:

A student in Grade 9 will be taking all of the classes below (this is only an example)

it does not list all the subjects.

Example only:

An example schedule of classes and grades earned are shown below:

Class Grade Credit Points Total Points

Earned

English 9 A 1 x 4 = 4

Algebra I B 1 x 3= 3

Biology B 1 x 3= 3

Geography A 1 x 4= 4

Arabic A 1 x 4= 4

Step 1:

Add the total amount of points earned = 18

total points

Then divide the total points by the total credits earned = 5 total credits = 18/5 = 3.6

GPA

Step 2:

To get a percentage from the 3.6 GPA + 1 = 4.6 and multiply by 20= 4.6 x 20 = 92%

Grading Scale

Grade

Points Earned

90-100

A

4

80-89

B

3

70-79

C

2

60-69

D

1

59 or below

F

0

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Each year of High School counts for 25% of the overall GPA.

Grade Level GPA Percentage 9 25%

10 25% 11 25% 12 25%

THE TRANSCRIPT

The transcript is the single most important item in the admissions folder. Your

transcript includes your final year-end grades for all courses taken in ninth, tenth,

and eleventh grades as well as a list of your courses in progress in twelfth grade.

Your transcript includes your GPA.

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HIGH SCHOOL TRANSCRIPT

Candidate name: Michael Johnson

Academic History: Courses, Grades and Credits

Year: 2012-2013 Grade: 9 Year: 2013-2014 Grade: 10

Freshman Sophomore

Courses Grade Credit Courses Grade Credit Overall GPA

English 9 C 1 English 10 A 1 3.61

Algebra I A 1 Arabic B 1

Geography B 1 Geometry A 1 Graduation Credits

Biology + Lab A 1 Chemistry I + Lab C 1 29.25

Arabic B 1 Islam A 0.25

Islam A 0.25 Quran A 0.25 Achievements

Quran A 0.25 PE A 0.25 Grade 11 Honor Roll

PE A 0.25 World History B 1 Student Council President

Art C 0.25 Computers A 0.5

Computers A 0.5 Arabic Social Studies B 0.5

Arabic Social Studies B 0.5

Life Skills A 0.5

7.5 6.75

GPA B 3.42 GPA A 3.7

Year: 2014-2015 Grade: 11 Year: 2015-2016 Grade: 12

Junior Senior

Courses Grade Credit Courses Grade Credit

English 11 A 1 English 12 D 1

Physics + Lab B 1 Pre-Calculus B 1

Modern World History A 1 Physics II + Lab B 1

Arabic A 1 Islam A 0.25

Islam A 0.25 Quran A 0.25

GPA Grading Scale

Quran A 0.25 Fine Arts A 1

Grade Letter Points

Business A 1 Computers A 1

90-100 A 4

PE A 1 Spanish I A 1

80-89 B 3

70-79 C 2

7.5 7.5

60-69 D 1

GPA A 3.89 GPA A 3.44

0-59 F 0

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Ajial Bilingual School High School Graduation Requirements

High School Graduation Requirements 4 Credits

(1 credit per year) English Language: English 9

English 10

English 11

English 12

Grade 9

Grade 10

Grade 11

Grade 12

3 Credits

(1 credit per year) Social Studies: Geography

World History

Modern World History

Grade 9

Grade 10

Grade 11

4 Credits

(1 credit per year) Math’s:

Algebra I

Geometry

Algebra II

Pre-Calculus

Grade 9

Grade 10

Grade 11

Grade 12

4 Credits

(1 credit per year) Science: Biology

Chemistry

Physics

Physics II, Bio. II, or Chem. II

Grade 9

Grade 10

Grade 11

Grade 12 (choose the one that

will assist you in University)

4 Credits

(1 credit per year) Arabic Language: Arabic 9

Arabic 10

Arabic 11

Arabic 12

Grade 9

Grade 10

Grade 11

Grade 12

1 Credit

(0.25 credit per year) Holy Quran: Holy Quran 9

Holy Quran 10

Holy Quran 11

Holy Quran 12

Grade 9

Grade 10

Grade 11

Grade 12

1 Credit

(0.25 credit per year) Islam

Islam 9

Islam 10

Islam 11

Islam 12

Grade 9

Grade 10

Grade 11

Grade 12

1 Credit

(0.5 credit per year) Arabic Social Studies

Arabic Social Studies I

Arabic Social Studies II

Grade 9

Grade 10

0.5 Credit

(0.25 credit per year) Physical Education

Physical Education

Physical Education

Grade 9

Grade 10

1 Credit Physical Education:

Physical Education Elective

Grade 11 or Grade 12

0.5 Credit

(0.25 credit per year) Art:

Fine Arts

Fine Arts

Grade 9

Grade 10

1 Credit Art

Fine Arts Elective

Grade 11 or Grade 12

3 Credits Grade 11 and 12 (any electives available)

28 Credits required Total Credits: minimum 28 credits

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Typical High School Schedule for Ajial Bilingual School

Ajial Bilingual School is strictly focused on the science track. Students that graduate

from Ajial Bilingual School will have met the science requirements needed to pursue

a science major in University. All students are required to take the mandatory

science classes listed on the High School schedule.

Grade 9 Freshman Grade 10 Sophomore

Course Title

Course Title

English Language Arts

English Language Arts

Algebra I

Arabic

Biology + Lab

Geometry

Arabic

Chemistry I+ Lab

Islam

Islam

Quran

Quran

Physical Education

Physical Education

Geography

World History

Arabic Social Studies

Arabic Social Studies

Computers

Computers

Art

Art

7 credits

7 credits

Grade 11 Junior

Grade 12 Senior

Course Title

Course Title

English Language Arts

English Language Arts

Algebra II

Arabic

Physics I + Lab

Pre-Calculus Modern World History

Physics II, Bio II, Chem. II,

Arabic

Islam

Islam

Quran

Quran

Elective

Elective

Elective

Elective

Elective

7.5 credits 7.5 credits

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Ajial Bilingual School

Valedictorian/Salutatorian Criteria

The Valedictorian and Salutatorian awards honor those students with the highest

grade point average (GPA) in his and her class (Valedictorian) and the second

highest GPA (Salutatorian) in his or her class. The GPA will be determined by the

calculation of grades received in all courses taken through the first seven (7)

semesters of a student’s high school academic career (Year 9 through and including

the first semester of Year 12). The GPA will be carried out to the third decimal point

and rounded to the second decimal point as follows: A “five” or greater decimal in

the third place will be rounded “up” while a “four” or lower in the third decimal

place will be rounded down. Example is: 3.985 will be a 3.99 on the student’s final

record while a 3.984 will be a 3.98 on the final record.

The honor of Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be awarded to those Grade 12

students who have attended Ajial Bilingual School for at least five semesters

including the second semester of a student’s Grade 11 year and the first semester of

a student’s Grade 12 year. The Valedictorian and Salutatorian Award will be

finalized at the end of the first semester (Semester 7 of a student’s high school

academic career) of the Grade 12 year. In order to be selected as Valedictorian and

or Salutatorian, a student must not have any disciplinary actions during their last

two years. Valedictorian’s and Salutatorian’s must be positive role models for our

students, which includes maintaining noble academics, behavior, and attendance.

In the case of a tie for the highest GPA, school attendance, teacher

recommendations, and an essay for why the student should be selected as

Valedictorian, will all be taken into account to determine the class

Valedictorian.

In the case of a tie for the second highest GPA, school attendance, teacher

recommendations and an essay for why the student should be selected as

Salutatorian, will all be taken into account to determine the class

Salutatorian.

Ajial Bilingual School will honor Valedictorian and Salutatorian for both male

and female students.

A Grade 9 student must have earned 7 credits.

A Grade 10 student must have earned 13.75 total credits.

A Grade 11 student must have earned 21.25 total credits.

Grade 12 students must be on the way towards earning 28 total credits.

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The Graduation Ceremony

Graduation is when students receive their High School Diploma. Students, who

have been successful in meeting the required High School graduation requirements

of Ajial Bilingual School, will participate in the Graduation ceremony. This is held

towards the end of their Grade 12 year. There's no greater recognition of a

graduate's achievements than a high school graduation ceremony, or

commencement. Diplomas are "conferred" and handed out to graduating seniors.

During the ceremony, the valedictorian, the highest-ranking academic student in the

graduation class, and the salutatorian, the second-highest academic student in the

graduation class, will provide their speech. Graduation is a time of joy and comes

with great pride for all graduating students and their families. Therefore, it should

be a time to celebrate all the hard work you’ve accomplished during the last four

years.

Ajial Bilingual School Alumni

We are excited to share some wonderful news with you regarding our Alumni

students. Our first graduating class from Ajial Bilingual School was the Class of

2015. Since then, we have graduated the second group of graduates. This academic

year, will mark our third year of graduates. We are excited to continue on this path

and watch our Alumni students reach their educational goals in University and we

take much pride in our graduates.

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Our Alumni have been accepted into the following Universities:

USA:

Arizona State University

San Diego State University

San Francisco State University

University of Southern California

Virginia Commonwealth University

West Virginia University

UK:

Swansea University

Queen Mary University of London

Leeds University

University of Manchester

Ireland:

Royal College of Surgeons

Kuwait:

Kuwait University

American University of the Middle East (AUM)

Gulf University of Science and Technology (GUST)

American College of Kuwait (ACK)

Egypt:

Arab Academy of Science and Technology in Alexandria

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Accepted Majors:

Accounting and Finance

Architectural Engineering

Business Administration

Chemical Engineering

Computer Engineering

Civil Engineering

Environmental Engineering

Medicine

Petroleum Engineering

Go Falcons!!!

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PLANNING FOR COLLEGE

College planning is a family affair. It is important that parents and students discuss

together the choice of colleges and plan together the steps necessary to get into

college. As one of the first major decisions that a young adult makes regarding his

or her future, college selection is challenging, but interesting and rewarding as well.

From a wide array of colleges and institutions of higher learning, each student will

choose those that best fit his or her level of ability and achievement. In the end,

college planning is the responsibility of each student. Each student should avail him

or herself of the help and resources offered through the College Counseling Office.

Students are expected to seek advice and to take advantage of resources available to

them. It is only through active research, reflection and exploration that students

will be assured of finding the college that suits them best. Clearly, when it comes

time to plan the next stages in a student's academic future, parental involvement is

crucial. Future planning, especially for college, must be realistic. During the college

research process, keep colleges' entrance requirements in mind. Read college

catalogues carefully and take notes about the specific requirements for those on

your college list. This step can save a great deal of time for you.

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RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STUDENT IN THE COLLEGE PROCESS

1. You must engage in honest, thoughtful reflection and analysis of your strengths, weaknesses, ideas, goals, and dreams and apply this knowledge thoughtfully in the college search and application process. Believe in yourself!

2. Deliver the best academic work of which you are capable, through the completion of your high school experience.

3. Take control and responsibility for the process rather than be dragged through it. You are the one who must bear the consequences for your final decision, so make it thoughtfully and well.

4. Do the necessary research to find and apply to a variety of colleges that you can see yourself attending and be happy with this decision.

5. Be considerate of the concerns and opinions of your family members, your counselor, and others who must contribute to the process, while remaining true to yourself.

6. Register for, and take appropriate standardized tests in a timely fashion.

7. Communicate with your College Counselor as your interests and priorities change and for further advice when needed.

8. Meet all deadlines including those of the college admissions offices.

9. Complete your applications and essays with care and attention.

10. Maintain a sense of humor-this is supposed to be fun!

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THE COLLEGE SELECTION PROCESS

Congratulations! Or is it, good luck? This is definitely a time that calls for both. For parents and students, the college selection process can be exciting, puzzling, threatening, and exhausting! It is further complicated by various deadlines, testing requirements, application procedures, and by expectations of family, friends, and teachers. Some deep thought, careful planning, and hard work will help to ensure that you set on the best path for you at this critical junction in your life.

Choosing a college is an individual process that is all about you and only you can set the wheels in motion. Most of you want to go to college and intend to do so next year (for seniors), but before plunging into a senior year of deadlines, essays, and anxiety, you should review and discuss your interests, goals, strengths, and weaknesses. Knowing what you want and why you want it will give you the energy, enthusiasm, and direction to make the business of applying to college a real adventure.

There are two things that you MUST do before you even start looking at colleges. First, lose your preconceptions and forget what you've heard. U.S. News and World Report do not know which college is best for you, nor do most of your friends, their parents, their cousins, your cousins, or your relatives. Just because a specific college was not right for them, does not make it wrong for you. It may actually be right for you.

Second, know yourself. Take the time to sit down and figure out what you want and need in a college. The three broad areas to consider, which will be the same when you are looking at schools, are academics, extra-curricular activities, such as volunteering, student council, leadership roles and last, religious/social life. Remember, this is about you!

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Ask yourself as many questions as you can. Here are some to get you started:

General:

Do you prefer your college to be big or small? Public or private? Liberal arts or pre-professional? Traditional or non-traditional? Are you committed to a particular geographic area? Can you handle really intense winters or hot, humid summers and falls?

Academic:

What subject do you enjoy learning? What subjects have you excelled in? Do you want small classes or large ones? More discussions or more lectures? Do you want to be able to meet with your professor one on one for extra help? Are you okay with having teaching assistants or do you have your heart set on being taught only by professors? Do you want the opportunity to participate in research? Do you want a curriculum which is largely set for you or do you want the most possible choices in your course selection? Do you excel in a highly competitive academic environment or a more relaxed one?

Extra-Curricular Activities:

What do you like to do? What excites you? Energizes you? Gets you up and out? What do you enjoy doing outside of the classroom and outside of school now? Are there opportunities to continue with these activities in college or another community? If an activity interests you, will you pursue it or do you need to be invited to participate? Are the activities that most interest you likely to be found on a large or small campus, in an urban or suburban community, etc.?

Social Life:

If you attend a school that requires you to live on campus will you be comfortable if another floor in your dormitory has students of the opposite gender? Do you occasionally enjoy going out to a restaurant for dinner with friends? Do you look forward to living in a dormitory or would you be more interested to live by yourself in an apartment? Do you look forward to exploring a new community on your own or do you need planned programs to get you out of your dorm?

Potential Pitfalls

All of the steps listed above are somewhat formal ways of gathering information about colleges. However, much of what you will learn and already know about various schools comes from a variety of informal, casual sources. While this information from your parents, siblings, teachers and many others is very helpful and quite important, there are some common traps of which you should be aware.

Don't let the following personalities limit your vision:

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The CONFORMIST:

You allow your friends to decide your college list and you "go along" with their own list. However, simply because a school is popular should not discourage you from considering it. After all, there must be a reason it is widely admired.

TUNNEL VISION:

While you may have been born wearing a Michigan State T-shirt, do not limit your consideration of the other 3,199+ colleges out there. MSU may not even offer your preferred academic subjects. However, if your beloved institution from childhood turns out to be a great fit for you, than even better!

The SCROOGE:

Cost is a major factor in college decisions; however, dismissing a school because of expense early in your search, i.e., before you have applied, may prevent you from learning about their financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

The ALMA MATER:

Many parents hold incredible loyalty to their alma mater (University they previously attended) and their enthusiasms may be contagious. However, parents, remember that a few years have elapsed since you graced your beloved college's campus. Now it's your son's or daughter's turn to seek out that feeling and personal fit on a campus. However, there are probably very good reasons why your parents love their alma mater so much. Give their college a good and fair look.

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SCHOLARSHIPS

There are two basic categories scholarship: merit-scholarship and regular-scholarship

Please refer to www.kuwaitculture.com for further information

Kuwaiti scholarships

Merit

1. 3.50 GPA 2. SAT of 1650 minimum (old SAT score needed) TOEFL 600 minimum 3. Conditional (pre-major) admission to Merit University 4. 3.0 GPA maintained at the university 5. Father must be Kuwaiti

Offset

1. TOEFL 2. 3.0 GPA 3. I-20 acceptance letter from a university approved by the Ministry. Students

must maintain a 3.0 GPA in college and take 30 credits. After one year they can apply for the regular scholarship at Kuwait Embassy in Washington DC.

To apply for a scholarship (graduating students) you must first register through the MOHE website: www.mohe.edu.kw. The date that the portal will open will be announced via social media and newspaper. Please make sure you bring a university acceptance letter, high school diploma, final transcript, civil ID, and your TOEFL/IELTS or SAT scores to the Ministry of Higher Education Scholarship Department in June or July (date will be listed in the newspaper).

To apply for a USA Visa

Acceptance letter from University Receive an I-20 in May or June Make an appointment at the US embassy to apply for a student visa Go to Ministry and apply for scholarship in June

USA Kuwait Cultural office in Washington DC- USA: http://www.kuwaitculture.com/

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United Kingdom Kuwait Cultural office in London- www.kuwaitculturaluk.com General information about studying in the UK- www.britishcouncil.org/eis British Council in the ME www.britishcouncil.org/me.htm British Council in Kuwait www.britshcouncil/me-kuwait.htm College search engine for UK Universities www.educationuk,org UK Common Application- www.ucas.com Canada Kuwait Culture Canada: http://www.kuwaitculture.com/university-listings/canadian-universities Canadian Common Application – www.ouac.on.ca Australia Kuwait Culture Office in Australia: http://www.kuwaitculture.org.au/ Middle Eastern Universities List of all Universities in ME www.Arabiancampus.com

COLLEGE AND CAREER WEBSITES

COLLEGE SEARCHES

College Board On-Line www.collegeboard.org

Virtual College Day www.criterioninfo.net

Ivy League University www.miskatonic.net/university/ivy.html

Jesuit Colleges and Universities www.ajcunet.edu

US News Online www.usnews.com/usnews/edu/home.htm

Embark.com www.embark.com

College.Net www.collegenet.com

Colleges’ Email Addresses www.college-scholarships.com

College is Possible www.collegeispossible.com

Guide to PA Post-Secondary Career Schools

www.papsa.org

US Two Year Colleges cset.sp.utoledo.edu/twoyrcol.html

ExPan www.collegeboard.org/expan/html/indx000.html

Peterson’s Education Center www.petersons.com

Think College-Learn for a Lifetime

www.ed.gov/thinkcollege

The Princeton Review www.review.com

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COLLEGE ESSAYS

College View www.collegeview.com

College Applications www.collegeapps.com www.interlog.com/~vacomm/campus.html

CAREERS

Occupational Outlook Handbook stats.bls.gov/ocohome.htm

Youth Resource Network www.youth.gc.ca

Career Paths On-Line careerpathsonline.com/start.html

Career Quest www.careerquest.org

Mapping Your Future mapping-your-future.org

Discover Careers That Fit You icpac.indiana.edu/infoseries/is-50.html

Military Career Guide On-Line militarycareers.com

COLLEGE EXAM TESTING WEBSITES

Khan Academy https://www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/sat

SAT Vocabulary www.vocabulary.com

Educational Testing Service www.ets.org

SAT registration www.collegeboard.org

Test Prep Com www.testprep.com

SAT Preparation www.powerprep.com

Prepare Test Preparation www.prepareforthesat.com

Kaplan Prep Courses www.kaplan.com

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

College Selection www.collegeselection.com

College Express www.collegexpress.com

Go College www.gocollege.com

COLLEGE PLANNING

Best Schools www.bestschoolsusa.com

College Choice www.gseis.ucla.edu/mm/cc/home.html

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THE APPLICATION PROCESS:

Kuwait Universities

Admission Conditions of High School Graduates:

1. Only high school graduates who graduated four academic semesters or two academic years shall be admitted at the university-as per the specified admission categories.

2. The student shall submit the following documents:

a. Copy of the High School certificate. b. Copy of the civil ID card. c. Copy of the passport. d. Academic order certificate at the high school (for the graduates of

American High Schools). e. Equivalency of the high school certificate awarded by the private

ministry of education f. 2 personal photos g. A sum of KD 10 for the enrollment application.

3. The papers of the student who obtained the following rates or averages at the high school certificate (unified system) or its equivalent and fulfilled the remaining admission conditions in addition to the special admission conditions of the target faculties shall be accepted:

a. 70% or more for the graduates of the scientific department or an accumulative average of minimum (2.50) points.

b. 78% or more for the graduates of the literature department or an accumulative average of minimum (2.90) points.

However, it shall be noted that fulfilling the general admission conditions does not necessarily imply that the student will be admitted in Kuwait University.

4. Students shall be admitted on the level of faculties or the Medial Sciences Center faculties except for the following faculties where students shall be admitted on the level of specialties:

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Faculty Main and Branch Specialties

Sciences

Computer Sciences Mathematical and Physical

Sciences Biological Sciences

Engineering and Petroleum

Architecture Other engineering specialties

Education

Scientific specialties Literature specialties

5. Only the graduates of the scientific department at high schools or holders of equivalent certificates shall be admitted in the scientific faculties (Medical Sciences Center, Engineering and Petroleum, Allied Medical Sciences, Education/ scientific specialties and College of Women).

6. As for the faculties reserving seats for both the scientific and literature departments, the graduates of each department shall compete to occupy these seats depending on their high school certificates averages or equivalent averages in the light of the general admission conditions.

7. The results of TOEFL or TOEFL IBT or IELTS may be considered as an alternative of the academic aptitude tests in the English language provided that the student shall not score less than (310) points at the TOEFL test and less than (1) point at the TOEFL IBT and IELTS tests.

First – Faculty of Administrative Sciences:

1. Priority in admission shall be reserved to students who obtained the highest average based on the high school grades and student aptitude tests as follows:

70% out of the high school grades. 15% out of the English language test grades. 15% out of the Math test grades.

2. Students graduating from the Literature Department shall have a minimum

average of 72% in order to compete for the seats reserved for them at the faculty.

Second – Medical Sciences Center (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacology):

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1. The student applying to the Center shall have a minimum average of 85% at the high school certificate (scientific department) or its equivalent.

2. Priority in admission shall be reserved to the students who obtained the highest equivalent average which shall be calculated based on the school grades and student aptitude tests as follows:

65% out of the high school grades. 15% out of the English language test grades. 10% out of the Math test grades. 10% out of the Chemistry test grades.

3. The students of the Medical Sciences Center who scored 2.67 GPA and more

shall be distributed amongst the Center Faculties after the completion of the second academic semester of the preparatory year in accordance with the regulations set by the concerned faculties. In the event vacant seats were available at the Pharmacology Faculty, the students who obtained 2.50 GPA and more shall be admitted to occupy the said seats.

Third – Faculty of Engineering and Petroleum:

1. The student applying to the Center shall have a minimum average of 80% = 3.0 GPA at the high school certificate (scientific department) or its equivalent.

2. Priority in admission shall be reserved to the students who obtained the highest Equivalent average which shall be calculated based on the high school grades and student aptitude tests as follows:

70% out of the high school grades. 15% out of the English language test grades. 15% out of the Math test grades.

Fourth – Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences:

1. The applying student shall have a minimum average of 75% at high school certificate (scientific department) or its equivalent.

2. Priority in admission shall be reserved to the students who obtained the highest Equivalent average which shall be calculated based on the high school grades and student aptitude tests as follows:

70% out of the high school grades. 15% out of the English language test grades. 7.5% out of the Math test grades. 7.5% out of the Chemistry test grades.

Fifth – Faculty of Sciences/ Computer Sciences Division:

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1. The applying student shall have a minimum average of 75% at high school certificate (scientific department) or its equivalent.

2. Priority in admission shall be reserved to the students who obtained the highest Equivalent average which shall be calculated based on the high school grades and student aptitude tests as follows:

70% out of the high school grades. 15% out of the English language test grades. 15% out of the Math test grades.

Sixth – College of Women:

1. Admission is limited to female students who graduated from the scientific section only.

2. Priority in admission shall be reserved to the students who obtained the highest average based on the high school grades and student aptitude tests as follows:

70% out of the high school grades. 15% out of the English language test grades. 15% out of the Math test grades.

Seventh – Faculty of Law:

1. The Faculty shall be the first or second choice at most in the student application form.

2. Admission requires that the student passes a personal interview held at the Faculty for those who were admitted at the faculty at the beginning of the academic year.

The students shall be admitted at the faculties of the Medical Sciences Center, Engineering and Petroleum, Administrative Sciences, Allied Medical Sciences, College of Women and Computer Sciences Specialty at the Faculty of Science depending on the Equivalent average which shall be calculated based on high school grades and student aptitude tests. The following examples explain and clarify how to calculate the Equivalent average at the different faculties.

1. Medical Sciences Center: Equivalent average = 65% of the high school grades + 15% of the English language test grades + 10% of the Math test grades + 10% of the Chemistry test grades. Example: A student obtained an average of 95% at the high school certificate divided as follows:

80% - English language test. 70% - Math test. 75% - Chemistry test.

Equivalent average = 0.65 x 95 + 0.15 x 80 + 0.1 x 70 + 0.1 x 75 = 88.25%

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THE APPLICATION PROCESS: International Universities

Admissions to most private and many public universities, particularly the more selective ones, is a complex, subjective, and unpredictable process. Decisions are generally based on the committee’s evaluation through reading and discussion of a candidate’s folder. What follows is a list of what usually goes into that folder, with some suggestions and guidelines on how to handle each of these components. The application is your way of introducing yourself to a college admissions office. As with any introduction, you want to make a good first impression. The first thing you should do on presenting your application is to find out what the university needs from you. Read the application carefully to find out the application fee and deadline, required standardized tests, number of essays, interview requirements, and anything else you can do or submit to help improve your chances for acceptance. The application that you fill out is the primary means through which you identify yourself to colleges (name, address, high school, etc.) and is one of the means through which your character and personality may emerge for the reader on the other end. It is the one part of your application over which you have real control. Doing a careful, thoughtful job on the application can make all the difference. A untidy application can kill your chances for admission. Here are some guidelines for completing the application: 1. Establish an Application You should access the university application online and create an application account for yourself by following each individual universities instruction in setting up an application user name and password. It is advisable to do this during the summer before Senior year or as soon as possible after returning to school in the fall. You will be completing all of your applications online and submitting them electronically. 2. Deadlines, Application Fees, and Admission Policies You must be aware of the application deadlines specified by each college. In most instances, you should submit your application as soon as it is complete. Nearly all applications also require you to pay an application fee, usually ranging from $50 to $100 (some public institutions are less). A limited number of fee waivers are available from the College Board and ACT, via the College Counseling Office if the family meets certain economic guidelines. Please make sure that you are aware of and comply with the policies of each school to which you apply. If you will be submitting a portfolio or any other supplemental material, please follow each school’s guidelines carefully. Many deadlines are at end of November!

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3. Completing the Application Colleges are not alike and application forms may vary significantly. Follow instruction carefully.

Read instructions before filling in your answers and answer all questions completely.

Be honest and thorough

Be yourself. You can drive yourself (and us) crazy trying to figure out what

you thin a college wants to hear. There’s seldom a right or wrong answer to a question on an application. All the committee wants is a clear, honest answer that will tell them something about you.

Don’t overdo it. Let your accomplishments speak for themselves and don’t

pad the application with trivial activities or long-neglected interests. Playing the violin in 8th grade means little if you haven’t picked it up since then. If you list a lot of nebulous activities and neither your teachers nor the school recommendation mentions them as significant, the college will know that you’re lagging; better to concentrate on a few quality pursuits than to manufacture quantify!

Give yourself plenty of time. Last minute jobs usually look and sound like last minute jobs.

4. The Common Application (Common App) An increasing number of four-year institutions accept the Common Application, a single application that can be filled out once and then submitted to multiple schools. Nowadays, The Common Application is accepted by over 340 schools. Please note that many Common Application schools require a supplement in addition to the Common Application. The Common Application itself and information about supplements are available online at www.commonapp.org.

5. The Application Essay Most college-bound students approach the task of writing a personal essay for college admissions with some anxiety, and often many questions. Like the application form, the essay (or essays in some cases) provides you with an opportunity to convey something about yourself that goes beyond the objective data. According to one admissions director, “it makes the facts in the student’s folder come alive for us, because it is the student’s personal statement. No single piece of admissions evidence gets as much attention and provokes as much discussion.” Above all, the essay should be well-written and carefully edited, and you should strive to keep it within the prescribed length (if no length is given aim for 500-600 words).

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Again, you should consider your audience. An admissions officer reading two dozen applications on a dreary February night doesn’t want to read a rehearsed debate topic or the details of an infection you received last summer. She wants to read something short, lively, and graceful that will tell her about you.

Selecting a Topic You should write about something that is important to you. This is your opportunity to reveal your intelligence, talent, sense of humor, enthusiasm, maturity, creativity, expressiveness, sincerity, and writing ability—traits that count heavily in the admission evaluation. Unless the college specifically asks for it, avoid the general autobiographical essay. Most application essay topics are fairly broad and open-ended, but if the question is specific, be sure to answer it. You may have only to adapt an essay you’ve written for another application or you may have to write an all new one. In the long run, it’s worth the effort to make sure the essays you write suit the application and the college for which you are writing. If you are stuck getting started, consider the following:

Major accomplishments in a particular activity, in the community, in your family, etc.

Influential persons in your life (real or fiction) and the particular influence they had on you or your development

Obstacles that you have overcome in your life

Skills or characteristics that make you unique

A challenging experience in which you succeeded or failed

Your dreams

In all of these areas, be sure to consider what effect this had on you, your character, your development, and your life. In real ways, how are you different? How were you influenced? How does this play itself out in your thinking and/or actions? Whatever your topic, it should reflect your true concerns and perspective. As you consider topics with whatever mix of seriousness, humor, confidence, or confusion, remember that the search for material to write about is an extension of the normal process of thoughtful reflection. Simply sorting out your thoughts, thinking, talking with friends, or daydreaming can lead to useful topics. Be ready to surprise yourself and be flexible; your best writing

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and thinking may come from unexpected sources. A short passage in a long essay you carefully planned may include material far stronger than the rest and/or whole new, productive direction.

Pointers on Writing the Essay Your writing should be as impressive as the content of your essay. Write

clearly; don’t inflate your style. Use a thesaurus only to search for a more exact or accurate word; avoid language you wouldn’t normally use.

Don’t underestimate the quality of your ideas. Some of the best application essays stem from common events or experiences; what is remarkable is the writer’s treatment of the topic. If several topics seem at all promising, pick one and begin writing. Even an unsuccessful draft may eventually lead you to your final product.

Having a good idea for an essay is not the same as having finished the essay. Great topics will not excuse technical faults, uneven development, stylistic awkwardness, or other problems. Sometimes ideas that seem great in the abstract may really be gimmicks.

Be objective about your topic; for example, does your draft stand up to multiple readings? Does it reveal a substantial insight about yourself or your world view? Is it witty, or touching? If so, your essay’s foundation is probably strong.

Don’t use the essay to apologize for some failing that you perceive on your part (e.g. –“My test scores are low, but I know that I’m really better than that). On the other hand, if there have been unusual circumstances in your life, the essay might be a great chance to explain them.

Avoid repeating facts, figures, or activities that have been mentioned

previously in the application unless they have particular bearing on the development of your character.

Your essay should be about you and unique to you. No matter how amazing your grandfather was, do not write your essay about him. You want the admissio4ns officer to be interested in you, not in your grandfather. * *excerpted from College Bound, a publication of the Center for Talented Youth at the John Hopkins

University (Baltimore, MD: 1993), 36.

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Early Decision and Early Action Early Decision is a common early admission policy used to indicate to the University or College that you consider that institution to be your top choice. Early decision does not allow applicants to apply to more than one early decision school simultaneously. It is a binding commitment to enroll, that means if you are accepted under an early decision program, you must withdraw all other applications and enroll at that institution. Early Action is also a type of early admission process, but it allows you to decline the offer if accepted, and depending on the program, it may be possible for you to apply to more than one early action school and an early decision school. There are two types of early action programs: restrictive early action and non-restrictive early action. If you are applying Early Decision or Early Action, you should submit your applications by the end of October of the senior year and receive a decision in mid-December. In contrast, students applying Regular Decision typically must submit their applications by January 1 and receive their admissions decision by April 1.

EXTRACURRICULAR INTERESTS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Applications for admission routinely request information about your extracurricular interests and accomplishments. Colleges are interested in knowing about your talents and interests that relate to endeavors both in and out of school. In completing your applications, you should describe your hobbies, community service activities, sports, school clubs, summer activities, jobs, internships, and other interests pursued both at Ajial Bilingual School and at home. Colleges are also very interested in students’ talents in art, music, theatre, or creative writing as well as religious and political activities. Admission officers also like to see evidence of leadership in any realm of your life, either as a monitor, a captain of a team, or in community service, and they hope to enroll students who can understand what leadership is. A good question to ask yourself as you complete an application is: How have I made a difference in my community as a leader or as a participant? Sometimes leadership emerges from active and committed involvement in an endeavor or organization—more than from an elected office or position.

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At the same time, not everyone is a leader. Colleges are really most interested in knowing about your keenest and most focused extracurricular interests, and they are interested in knowing more about your involvement in school and community. They are more impressed with the student who makes an outstanding contribution in a few extracurricular areas than with the one who belongs to many organizations and does not have time to contribute much to any. A thoughtful description of your life outside the classroom will reflect the activities that are most meaningful and significant to you, and will help describe to the college, who you are. Your application should give readers a good sense of your interests and talents, but at the same time colleges are interested in how you budget your time and manage both your academic and extracurricular commitments. A college is in fact looking for all sorts of students, with all kinds of interests who will be attracted to the college’s extracurricular and academic offerings. Don’t be unduly modest in your applications; your strengths and accomplishments will make you attractive to colleges. Let the college know who you are and about what you will bring to them. And remember, some of the activities and accomplishments that you consider routine or ordinary may actually help set you apart in an applicant pool as an interesting candidate. The format in which colleges request extracurricular information will vary from application to application. Respond accordingly, and don’t hesitate to elaborate about special interests on additional sheets of paper. That information may catch the eye of the application readers.

RECOMMENDATION LETTERS

Most colleges request that classroom teachers assess an applicant’s ability. Almost at the end of Junior year, you could ask teachers for recommendation letter. It is your responsibility to ask teachers to play this role in your quest for Admissions and to have them sign your “Teacher Recommendation” form committing to do this. Teacher recommendations will be sent to the colleges you are applying to directly from the College Counseling office at the first quarter of Senior year. Recommendations from others (community leaders, influential friends, etc.) should be sent only after the student has conferred with the College Counselor. Pointers on Teacher Recommendations:

In choosing your teachers, choose teachers who taught you in an academic subject, preferably in eleventh or twelfth grade (and preferably not for the first time in twelfth grade). The teacher who gave you the highest grade may

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not be the one who is likely to write you the best recommendation; it is equally important that the teacher knows you well and likes you.

Have back-ups in mind. Sometimes you may ask a teacher who does not feel they are the appropriate person to write for you or who has already hit the limit of recommendations that they feel they can write. We advise teachers to be honest and say so if they are not the appropriate recommender for you.

Ask your teachers in person!

If you are applying to a technical institute or indicating science or engineering as a proposed field of study, one of your teachers’ recommendations should be from a math or science teacher.

Always thank your teachers in writing for their help. Recommendation writing is a time-consuming task; often the only pay-off is your warm genuine appreciation. Also, let teachers know how things work out; they are genuinely interested in your future.

Additional Letters of Recommendation Different colleges have different attitudes toward extra letters of recommendation.

If a college is willing to accept extra letters those letters must shed some light on

your character and growth and must be different than what you have already

supplied. A helpful letter might be, for example, from an employer or the head of a

volunteer organization, commenting on your sense of responsibility, etc. An

additional letter may also be from a coach or drama teacher you’ve had for several

years. Letters from friends of your parents that basically say “he’s a nice boy” are

useless and irritating. Letters from political figures who don’t really know you or

alumni whose stake in you or the college is limited are equally meaningless. Do not

send more than one additional recommendation. Admissions officers don’t have

time or patience to read through them.

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THE COLLEGE PROCESS

TEST SCORES

Colleges require official test results directly from ETS/The College Board. It is your

responsibility to send your test scores directly to colleges from the testing agency.

THE COMPLETE FOLDER

How colleges pull all of these parts together and weigh them naturally varies for

most colleges, the importance goes something like this:

1. Your academic record (transcript) – the rigor of your program and the

grades you’ve earned

2. Standardized test scores (SAT, SAT II, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS)

3. Your extracurricular record and personal qualities – revealed in your

application and essay (as well as through comments in

recommendations and interviews)

4. Teacher recommendations

5. Counselor recommendation

6. School recommendation

7. Additional letters of recommendation

Any of these factors, if unusually strong or unusually weak, can become more

important than it might otherwise have been. In the end, however, it is an imprecise

synthesis of all of these factors, not a predictable formula that will determine your

admission to selective colleges or universities.

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WHEN WILL COLLEGES LET YOU KNOW IF YOU’VE BEEN ACCEPTED

After you’ve filed your application and arranged to have your latest SAT or ACT

scores sent to the college, there is little to do but wait until the college admissions

office makes its final decision. When and how quickly you will hear from the

admissions offices depends on the pattern they use to notify their applicants. The

majority of institutions use one or more of the following:

Rolling Admission

Some colleges follow the procedure of considering each student’s application as

soon as it is complete. They will notify the applicant of their decision without delay.

Colleges that follow this practice may make and announce their admissions

decisions continuously over several months, in contrast to the practice of other

colleges which accumulate applications until the deadline and announce all their

decisions at the same time. With Rolling Admissions it is best to apply as early as

possible.

“By Date” Admission

Many colleges follow the procedure of considering all applications during a set

period of time (usually beginning after the application deadline) and then releasing

all decision at one time. With these schools it is critical to apply by the deadline.

Although it can vary be school, most schools who follow this practice release their

decisions sometime between mid-March and early April.

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YOU’VE BEEN ACCEPTED

Congratulations! You did it! You selected some schools, filled out applications,

wrote essays, submitted them on time, waited, waited, waited, and finally you

receive your acceptances. Now what?!

Post-decision

Don’t forget that some very important pieces of business still need to be taken care

of. First and foremost, the National Candidates Reply Date is May 1st. On or by May

1, you must notify a college if you intend to enroll. Here is what you have to do:

Read carefully all of the information the College sent you.

By May 1st, you must notify the college if you plan to attend. Many colleges

provide specific forms for this purpose. Fill it out and send it back/submit it

online. If there is no such form, a short and simple letter indicating your

intent to enroll is perfect.

Be sure to include the required deposit with your notification form or letter.

Fill out and return any other required forms (housing, etc.) by the deadline.

If you applied “Early Decision” and were accepted, you must withdraw all

applications that you have submitted to other schools.

Please, don’t forget to tell the College Counseling Office. Keep us informed of

all decisions you receive from schools.

Finally, if you have not yet thanked your recommenders in writing, do so

now! They may have been part of your acceptance.

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STANDARDIZED TESTING

Colleges and universities in the United States use tests to help evaluate applicants’

readiness for admission or to place them in appropriate courses. The tests that are

most frequently used by colleges are the ACT from the American College Testing,

Inc., and the College Board’s SAT. In addition, the Educational Testing Service (ETS)

offers the TOEFL test, which evaluates the English-language proficiency of non-

native speakers. The IELTS test is a test that assesses your abilities in listening,

reading, writing and speaking. Students interested in signing up for the IELTS must

register through the British Council.

PSAT/NMSQT

It is an abbreviated and slightly altered version of the SAT. The test covers three

areas: Critical Reading, Writing, and Mathematics. The purpose of the test is to

acquaint students with College Board exams and to obtain an estimate of how

students will perform on the required SAT admissions tests.

SAT I (Reasoning test) & SAT II (Subject test)

Sign up at: www.collegeboard.org These tests are officially known as the College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB)

tests. There are two main tests: The SAT Critical Reasoning Test (SAT I) and the SAT

Subject Test (SAT II’s). The SAT I, like the PSAT, covers three areas: Critical Reading,

Writing and Mathematics. The SAT II’s are hour-long tests focusing on individual

subject areas. A list of tests offered and test dates are available on the College Board

website. Most colleges require either the SAT or ACT for the College Board website.

Most colleges require either the SAT or ACT for admissions and many schools also

require two to three SAT Subject Tests. You should note carefully the specific

requirements of the colleges and any special programs/departments to which you

are applying.

The SAT helps college admission officers make fair and informed admission

decisions. Combined with a student’s academic record, it is a proven, reliable

indicator of college success. Since its launch in 1926, the SAT has helped millions of

students connect with college success and today remains the most reliable, effective

measure of a student’s college readiness. The SAT tests the subject matter learned

by students in high school and how well they apply that knowledge- the critical

thinking skills necessary to succeed in college. The SAT is offered seven times a year

in the United States and six times at international sites.

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Why should students take the SAT?

Students and parents often ask why it is important to take the SAT. Reasons

include:

All colleges accept the SAT as an objective measurement of students’ college

readiness.

Used with GPAs and high school transcripts, SAT scores allow colleges to

fairly compare applicants.

Taking the SAT gives students access to scholarship opportunities.

Most colleges require an admission test like the SAT.

The SAT provides students with the most comprehensive performance

feedback of any admission test.

Many institutions require a writing assessment for admission. Students who take

the SAT automatically fulfill such requirements.

Registering for the SAT

Students must register in advance for the SAT to ensure that the correct materials

are waiting for them at their chosen test center. With registration, each student

receives:

An assigned test center seat

An admission Ticket-by Web, email, or postal mail

Up to four score reports sent to colleges and scholarship services

What are the SAT Subject Tests?

The SAT Subject tests are required by some institutions for admission and/or

placement in freshman level courses. Each subject test measures ones’ knowledge

of a specific subject and the ability to apply that knowledge. Students should check

with each institution for its specific requirements. In general, students are required

to take three Subject Tests (English, Mathematics, and one of their choice).

SAT Subject Tests are the only national admission tests that measure student’s

knowledge and skills in particular subject areas, and their ability to apply that

knowledge. They are closely linked to the high school curriculum and have a proven

track record of providing colleges with a highly reliable, objective assessment of

student readiness for college-level work. The SAT Subject Tests give students an

additional opportunity to distinguish themselves and showcase their skills in a

particular subject area.

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Each year, nearly 500,000 students take SAT Subject Tests to demonstrate their

mastery of particular subjects. Colleges across the country use the tests as a

common and objective scale for evaluating a student’s mastery of specific content

areas.

Students take the SAT Subject Tests to demonstrate to colleges their mastery of

specific subjects such English, History, Mathematics, Science, and Foreign languages.

The content of each test is not based on any one approach or curriculum, but rather

evolves to reflect current trends in high school course work.

The SAT ® Program offers 20 Subject Tests that fall into general subject areas.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTRATION DEADLINES FOR SAT I AND SAT II

2016-17 International SAT Administration Dates and Deadlines

SAT Date SAT Subject Tests Available

Early Registration via Representative

Registration Deadline

Deadline for Changes

Jan 21,

2017

Register

See SAT Subject Tests available on this date

Dec 07, 2016 Dec 21, 2016 Jan 10, 2017

May 06,

2017

Register

See SAT Subject Tests available on this date

Mar 22, 2017 Apr 07, 2017 Apr 25, 2017

Jun 03,

2017

Register

See SAT Subject Tests available on this date

Apr 25, 2017 May 09, 2017 May 24, 2017

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Test Center Name Address Code Al-Bayan Bilingual School

Hawally, Beirut St. 52915

American Baccalaureate School

Abraq Khaitan, Ibn Al-Zuhair St. 52937

Kuwait University

Building 14 KH, Ground Floor 52920

Important information for international registration deadlines:

International deadlines apply to anyone testing outside of the United States

and U.S. territories.

International registration materials must be received by the international

deadlines. Deadlines expire at midnight Eastern Time.

There is no late registration for international testing. Online and telephone

registrations must be completed by the international deadline dates listed

above.

Students registering through international Representatives must submit

their paper registration with full payment by the early registration deadline.

The SAT is not offered in March outside of the United Stated and U.S.

territories.

Services and Fees

Fees may vary depending on the services you chose. To obtain more information

about this you could visit the SAT website:

https://sat.collegeboard.org/register/sat-fees

The approximate fee converted to Kuwaiti Dinar is around 30KD.

When to take the test

Most students take the SAT during their Junior or Senior year in High School. At

least half of all students take the SAT twice- in the spring of their junior year and in

the fall of their senior year. Most students also improve their score the second time

around.

For the SAT Subject Tests, most students take them toward the end of their junior

year or at the beginning of their Senior year. In general, you should take tests such

as World History, Biology, Chemistry or Physics as soon as possible after completing

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the course in the subject. Students tend to do better on other tests like languages

after at least two years of study.

SAT test day tips

If you want to know exactly what a test day looks, feels and sounds like? You could

check out the Test Day Simulator, an interactive guide to the whole SAT experience,

from “You may begin” to “Pencils down.” At this website:

http://sat.collegboard.org/register/sat-test-day-tips

When the test arrives be prepared and make sure you bring

Admission Ticket/registration

Current and valid photo identification

Two No. 2 pencils and a soft eraser: the permitted ones while testing are

graphic calculator, scientific calculator and four-function calculations (not

recommended)

It is also nice to have a watch, a bag or backpack, extra batteries and

backpack equipment for the calculator, a drink or snack for your break.

**For more information about the SAT visit the website:

http://sat.collegboard.org/home

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) www.toefl.org you can also find

information regarding the TOEFL at the AMIDEAST Kuwait:

TOEFL® IBT TEST DATES

The internet-based (iBT) Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL®) Exam costs 100.00 KD. Please keep in mind that the IBT TOEFL® exam is given on set dates throughout the year. The time of the test varies from one test center to another. These dates fill up quickly. Planning is very important now that the IBT® has been implemented.

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NOVEMBER 2016 - JANUARY 2017 TEST DATES:

Date Time Registration Location November 12, 2016 9:00 am AMIDEAST Office

November 13, 2016 9:00 am AMIDEAST Office

November 19, 2016 9:00 am AMIDEAST Office

November 26, 2016 9:00 am AMIDEAST Office

December 3, 2016 9:00 am AMIDEAST Office

December 17, 2016 9:00 am AMIDEAST Office January 7, 2017 9:00 am AMIDEAST Office

January 14, 2017 9:00 am AMIDEAST Office

January 22, 2017 9:00 am AMIDEAST Office

About the TOEFL iBT Test

The TOEFL iBT test, administered in an internet-based format, is an important part

of your journey to study in an English-speaking country. In addition to the test, the

ETS TOEFL Program provides tools and guides to help you prepare for the test and

improve your English-language skills.

What is the TOEFL iBT Test?

The TOEFL iBT test, measures your ability to use and understand English at the

University level. It evaluates how well you combine your listening, reading,

speaking and writing skills to perform academic tasks.

Who takes the TOEFL iBT Test?

Each year, nearly a million individuals of all ages take the TOEFL test to

demonstrate their English-language proficiency. More than 25 million people from

all over the world have taken the TOEFL test since it was first offered. The average

English skill level ranges between intermediate and Advanced.

These are examples of who takes the test:

Students planning to study at a higher education institution

English language learning program admissions and exit

Scholarship and certification candidates

English-language learners who want to track their progress

Students and workers applying for visas

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Who Accepts TOEFL iBT Test Scores?

More than 7,500 colleges, agencies and other institutions in over 130 countries

accept TOEFL scores. Other organizations rely on TOEFL scores as well:

Immigration departments use them to issue residential and work visas

Medical and licensing agencies use them for professional certification

purposes

Individuals use them to measure their progress in learning English

What to Expect

Since so many individuals and institutions rely on TOEFL® test scores, there are

rules that need to followed at the test center to ensure the test is administered in a

fair, secure manner. Knowing what to expect can put you more at ease on test day.

Here is what typically happens.

Before the Test

Plan to arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your specified start

time. If you come late, you may not be able to take the test.

Your photo will be taken and placed at your assigned seat. It will also appear

on your score report.

You will be asked to sign a required confidentiality agreement.

Scrap paper and a pencil are provided for you and will be collected at the end

of the session.

Identification documents are the only personal items you are allowed to have

in the testing room. Cell phones and other electronic devices are not

permitted.

Your seat will be assigned by the test administrator.

No schedule changes can be made at the test center.

Testing premises may be videotaped for security reasons.

Your seat will be assigned by the test administrator.

No schedule changes can be made at the test center.

Testing premises may be videotaped for security reasons.

ID verification may also include thumb printing, signature comparison or

other forms of electronic ID confirmation.

During the Test

You will be provided with instructions from your testing center. Cell phones and

other devices are not permitted during the test or during breaks.

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After the test

Your scores will be posted online, within two weeks after the test date.

You can view your scores online by logging into your TOEFL iBT test account

and selecting “View Scores” on your home page.

Scores are also mailed to you and the universities or institutions you selected

within two weeks of the test date.

You can take the test again to improve your scores.

Identification Requirements

You must bring valid identification (ID) and your registration number on the test

day. No one may take the test without these items.

A valid ID with your name, signature and photograph must have:

the same name you used when you registered

your entire first/given name and entire last/family name

a clear, recent photo

Changes cannot be made unless your name is misspelled. Expired documents or

copies of documents are not accepted.

DO NOT bring any of the Documents Listed Below:

(These documents will NOT BE accepted on test day.)

any expired ID

birth certificate

international driver’s license

draft classification card

international student ID

credit/debit card of any kind

notary-prepared letter or document

Social Security card

Employee ID card

Learner’s permit or any temporary ID (for example, a temporary driver’s

license)

Photocopy of ID

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What to Bring on Test Day

You need to bring two things to the test center:

1. Your Registration Confirmation: This has your registration number and the

test site information that was issued when you registered.

2. Acceptable, valid identification (ID) documents (s): This is an official ID

document that has your name, signature and recent photo. It must have the

same first name (given name) and surname (family name) you used when

you registered.

Financial aid & scholarship Resources

EduPASS

www.edupass.org

Great resource for international students who want to study in the United States.

Includes information on financial aid and scholarships for international students.

College Board

www.collegeboard.com/paying/

This page of the College Board offers information about college costs and the

financial aid process. There is information about borrowing for higher education,

financial aid myths, and scholarships searches, among others.

STUDENT VISAS

Obtaining your student visa isn’t the easiest process, but a little planning and some

simple organization will make your dream of studying abroad a reality. Every year

thousands of international students successfully obtain their I-20 and the F-1

(Student) visa for the United States.

In order to obtain it, you need to follow some steps:

Get In!

The first step in the process it to be accepted at a full-time academic program

at an institution authorized to enroll alien non-immigrant students. Once

you are admitted, you need to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (I-20), and

then the actual F-1 visa itself. Both documents hinge on your full-time

enrollment in an academic program.

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Finances

You need to determine exactly how much your education and living expenses

will cost. Customs requires international students to be able to prove they

can cover full tuition and living expenses for at least their first year of study,

and similar founding should be available for the following years of school.

International students studying in the United States are considered non-

immigrant, meaning they will be living in the States on a temporary basis.

You need to be able to demonstrate that your stay will be temporary and that

you will return home after completing your study. The main reason

worldwide why student visas are denied is due to students’ failure to prove

they have a residence abroad, which they do not intend to abandon. To avoid

this, you must be able to articulate how your study in the United States will

contribute to your future goals and career for your home country during

your interview.

The I-20

Now the paperwork begins. To obtain an I-20, you must submit a written

application to your intended school, along with the appropriate financial

documents that show you can cover full tuition and living expenses for at

least your first year of study. Then you need to prove your language

proficiency, typically through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.

Most school have their own institutional application for students to submit as

well, and the length of time it takes a school to issue the I-20 depends on the

institution. The accepted financial documents may vary from school to

school. You should also apply as early as possible allowing a minimum of

two weeks to receive your I-20.

Your intended school will submit your information to the Student and

Exchange Visitor Information System database (SEVIS) to issue your I-20.

This is the mechanism by which the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

monitors the arrival, enrollment and departure of international students.

Once you receive your I-20 you should check to make sure the information is

accurate. You will need to arrive at the United States by the start day listed in

Section 5 of your I-20. You can enter up to 30 days before this date, but not

after. You also need to pay a SEVIS fee at least three business days prior to

the visa interview. Once you receive your I-20 and pay the SEVIS fee, you

should make an appointment at the US Embassy to apply for a visa stamp.

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The Embassy

A visa is a permit to apply for entry to the United States and can be issued at

a U.S. Consulate or Embassy outside the United States. The visa stamp can

only be issued up to 120 days prior to the I-20 reporting date. All F-1

students need to apply for their visa prior entering the United States. In

order to apply for the visa you need the following items:

1. I-20

2. A receipt for the SEVIS fee

3. Financial documents

4. An admission letter from your college or university

5. TOEFL or other authorized test results that confirm your English

proficiency.

6. A passport (valid at least six month into the future)

7. DS-156 and DS-158 forms

8. Photograph

9. Appropriate fees

Details can be found on the United States Embassy website

(www.kuwait.usembassy.gov)

Approval

Once your visa application is approved, a stamp is placed on your passport.

The name of your College and SEVIS ID number will be noted on your visa.

You are required to enroll in that institution and no other upon your initial

entrance to the United States. Hopefully the visa is approved. However, if it

is not, you should request a denial letter, which explains why your

application was deficient. Using this letter you can determine what

documents and evidence you’ll need to overturn the decision if you choose to

reapply at a later time.

Remember you are only able to enter the United States up to 30 days prior to

the I-20 start date. At the U.S. port of entry, you will meet with a Customs

and Border Protection officer. You are then authorized to stay as an F-1

student based on your I-94, a small white card that is stapled to your

passport. The I-94 card should be marked “F-1 D/S” for properly admitted F-

1 students. You also need to check with your school to see how you should

report your arrival, as different institutions have different policies and

procedures.

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Ajial Bilingual School College Counseling Office