The application procedure begins with your decision to pursue higher education abroad. The next step is to contact a Roads Counselor at the earliest. Though you may begin you applications and related preparation a year before the term you wish to apply for (e.g for fall 2011 admissions, begin preparation by fall 2010), but the earlier you begin, more thorough you can be in your approach. However, even if you are slightly late, we are happy to help you. The flowchart, presented below will help you get an over-view of the application process:

Yes. It is overwhelming. And we help you navigate through this maze.

“The application process is expensive and time sensitive. My Mentors at Roads have taken every possible measure to make sure that I am able to complete everything on time, and efficiently. I could not have done it without you guys!”- Arpit Choudhary

Our innovative RAP Tool helps you and your mentors stay on top of the application requirements and deadlines for each and every school that you apply to.  Of upmost importance is to get all application materials/requirements in place. At the oust it is important to narrow down on the colleges that interests you and decide on prospective majors and degrees. Ideally, you must apply to between 5 to 8 colleges. This will ensure a higher probability of admission/acceptance. When you find a college that you like, consider applying early. This allows you to have everything in place well in advance. Early decision and action allows one to apply early (usually in November) and get an admissions decision from the college well in advance.

Application Checklist

• Application Forms
• High School Transcripts
• Letters of Recommendation
• SAT-I scores, and/or SAT-II Subject Test
• Statement of Purpose and/or Application Essays
• Evidence of English Language Proficiency
• Evidence of Co-Curricular Achievements
• International Student Financial Documents.

“The first time I applied to my dream school, I was rejected. After seeking the help of the Roads Team, I realized that despite my best efforts, I had not prepared my application carefully. But that changed completely when I became a Roadie. And I got accepted at the same school- my dream school! Only at Roads such miracles happen”. – Harsh Kumar Agarwal

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions:

• Choosing a Program/University based on hearsay.
• Thinking that only Ivey League Universities are worth attending. The WSJ Employers pick will help bust this myth.
• Poor college/university search.
• Spending less time on the essays and other components on the application. Because of this despite strong credentials, students are often rejected.
• Not reviewing essays thoroughly.
• Preparing application in a haphazard and unprofessional manner.
• Applying with insufficient,  or the wrong documents.
• Not collating appropriate financial documents.
• Not meeting deadlines.
• Poor understanding about the cost of studying abroad.
• Poor understanding of job opportunities upon graduation.
• Poor preparation for the visa interview.
• Poor understanding of the various social and cultural nuances/protocols of another country, hence problems in adjusting and culture shock upon arrival.
• Poor pre-departure research.

Not only do we offer service to help you to not make these mistakes, but also, given our global network of colleagues and alumnus, we help you get a feel of where you would spend the 3 to 4 most important years of your life- even before you arrive there!