US only: Additional parts of an application

Front

Extracurricular Activities (ECA) List

Back

This is a required section of the Common Application (can list 10) and the UC schools (can list 20)

Evidence of relevant work or volunteer experience

Leadership and impact

Genuineness and originality - authenticity

Front

Awards and Honors List

Back

This is a required section of the Common Application (can list 5). Spearately, it is integrated into the Activities List of UC applications.

Front

Common App Personal Statement (CAPS)

Back

This is a required section of the Common Application. An personal essay, creative non-fiction. It should show that you are:

1) possessing skills/ character to make you successful in college and beyond

2) memorable

3) can write (structure)

Front

Supplemental Essays or writing pieces

Back

Additional essays required by some colleges.

Front

English Proficiency

Back

Proof of proficiency in the English language.

Front

External Admissions Testing

Back

Standardized tests required for college admission.

Front

Counsellor Reference / Letter of Recommendation

Back

US only. Addresses the applicant's academic performance, extracurricular engagements, and personal character in greater detail. Each US applicant receives one unless only applying UC.

Front

School Profile

Back

An overview of the school's characteristics and achievements. It is sent to US universities.

RCHK example here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1thf8s0ODoLD3dX_RPrFVvS7tRXY5AvUs/view

Front

Holistic admissions (common in US admissions)

Back

From Stanford: Holistic admissions means that each piece in your application is reviewed as part of an integrated and comprehensive whole.

One piece tells about your background and life experiences, another about your school and your academic achievement. We learn from others about your character and intellectual contributions. In your essays, we learn about your ideas and interests, and what is meaningful to you.

In a holistic review, we seek to understand how you, as a whole person, would grow, contribute and thrive at Stanford, and how Stanford would, in turn, be changed by you.

Front

Interview

Back

• US undergraduate admissions interviews are generally less formal and more conversational than many other types of interviews. They are designed to help the admissions committee get a more personal sense of who you are beyond your application. You should lead the conversation.

Remember, the interview is a chance for both you and the university to see if it's a good mutual fit. Relax, be yourself, and let your personality and passion shine through!

• Ask questions that only someone with firsthand experience (often alumni) can answer. Examples:

  • "What was your favorite class or professor and why?"

  • "What surprised you most about your experience at [University Name]?"

  • "How has [University Name] prepared you for your career/life after graduation?"

  • "What are some unique opportunities for students interested in [your specific interest]?"

• Have a few questions ready, even if you don't ask them all.