The American education system offers a wide range of study pathways for international students. The number of schools, programmes and locations can be overwhelming, even for students based in the USA. As you begin to understand which study options are available, you can begin to decide which pathway will suit you best. Morgan Oxford Education is on hand every step of the way to assist and guide you with your next education steps. Our specialist team can help to place you in contact with your ideal school.
What study options are on offer in the USA?
Boarding schools
For many international students, boarding schools in the USA act as a gateway to studying at American universities. A student’s interests and achievements can help them to decide which boarding school may be the best fit for them, as some schools offer scholarships to students gifted in certain subjects. International students can transfer to high schools in the USA from age 14.
Students looking to pursue this route are required to complete grade 12 (the final year of high school) to obtain a high school diploma. Alternatively, some schools offer the option to study the internationally recognised IB (International Baccalaureate) qualification, or the AP (Advanced Placement) programme. There are advantages to studying the IB or AP as both pathways offer a wide selection of subject choices for study, and this breadth of education can strengthen university applications.
With any of the above qualifications, students who follow the boarding school route will be fully prepared for SAT exams, and depending on their results could secure admission to any university in the USA.
Pathway Colleges
Pathway colleges are a popular route for international students looking to transition into the USA university system. Students are required to spend one year completing a course at a pathway college, which is often located on a university campus. Pathway colleges allow international students to solidify their academic foundations and ensure that their study skills are at the expected level ahead of university study. It also allows students to study in a university environment alongside other international students. They can take the time to fully absorb life in the USA before commencing their full degree programme.
Pathway colleges do not require students to complete SAT exams prior to entry. However, if students have completed SAT exams, pathway colleges offer the opportunity for these students to improve their results and transfer to higher ranking universities.
International Year 1
This is another pathway that allows international students to transfer into the USA university system. Students enter directly into year 1 of university, but complete classes for their first year alongside other international students only. From year 2, students then study in classes with the main university population and complete their degree qualification via the usual route.
Completion of SAT exams is not a requirement to enter an international year 1 programme.
Direct Entry
Some lower ranking universities offer the direct entry route. This allows students to save time and money by completing one less year of study to secure a degree. This route is not appropriate for all students, however if you would like to learn more about this option, please get in touch.
