Dear Timeline for Admission:
The admissions process in the US begins in the Fall for the academic session starting next Fall;
that is, the process shall begin in September-October timeframe for the class starting in 2002.
Schools recognize that your final grades may not be available when you apply for admission, but
that you would submit them as soon as they become available. The admissions process is
completed typically by April-May.
You should apply for admission as soon as you can complete the application, except for the final
grades, if necessary. While each school has its own specific admission requirements, most will
require the GRE for graduate studies in engineering. Obviously you should apply for admission after
having taken the GRE. It is not only required to complete your application but it would also offer
you a better idea of which schools to target. For example, the
iMahal College Finder can help you identify colleges that
best meet your performance and personal needs based on your GRE scores.
Having been accepted, the school will issue appropriate paperwork for obtaining a student visa
from the US embassy in India. The documents from the school do not assure the grant of a visa,
but are necessary. Should you encounter any issues with the visa process, or have question
about anything else, your school counselor should be able to assist you. You should visit the
iMahal Education Section for
Entrance Exams
to obtain information on GRE and TOEFL.
These tests are conducted in India, as well as in many other countries around the world. Many
exam centers offer computer-based tests, which can be taken at any time that is convenient for
you.
So, the timeline is straightforward. Start researching the colleges now: you can use the iMahal List of
Engineering Colleges and Universities in the US. At the same time, prepare for the required
entrance exams, such as GRE and TOEFL. You should work hard and do well on these exams to
improve your chances of acceptance and for obtaining financial aid. Narrow down the list of
colleges, based on your performance on the GRE. Apply to colleges as soon as possible after taking
the entrance exams, say in mid- to late-Fall. Schools have varied timelines for informing you of
their decision. When you have received offers of admission and decided the school to which you
wish to go, start the visa process immediately.
Dear Mentor:
