Dear sir, my nephew would like to pursue his postgraduation in the US. What do you think would be the right time to appear for Step 1 exam? Does he have the option to choose subjects as well? What is the minimum score to qualify? Kindly advise

Ans: Hello Deepak,

First and foremost, thank you for contacting us. We are extremely sorry for the part pertaining to Educational prerequisites, having mistakenly written Bachelor’s. Pursuing medical studies in the USA can certainly be fruitful, however, multiple steps are involved in the process, right from preparing for standardized exams to making applications for universities. The application process is as under:

1. Prerequisites:
• Academics: Your daughter will need to complete 12 years of schooling comparable to that of the U.S. high school education. This typically requires completing grades 11th and 12th.
• Standardized Tests: Prepare for and give the requisite standardized tests:
â—¦ SAT or ACT: Undergraduate admissions require one to appear for general standardized exams like the SAT or ACT. Certain universities might favor one over the other.
â—¦ SAT Subject Tests: For competitive programs like medicine, specific subject exams might be needed or recommended by certain universities.
• English Proficiency: If English is not your daughter's primary language, appear for the TOEFL or IELTS English language proficiency test.

2. Research and Choose Universities:
• Universities and medical programs that correspond to your daugther’s academic objectives, choices, and monetary capabilities should be researched.

3. Entrance Tests:
• MCAT: The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is required for admission to the majority of American medical schools. An applicant’s comprehension of scientific principles, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities are assessed in this standardized test.

4. Application Process:
• Online Applications: Via the Common Application or specific university websites, complete online applications.

• Transcripts: Academic marksheets including those of grades 11th and 12th, as well as any other pertinent education should be submitted.

• Recommendation Letters: Your daughter will require outstanding LoRs from professors, mentors, or professionals who can attest to her intellectual prowess and character.

• Statement of Purpose: Typically, applicants must compose a convincing personal statement outlining their purpose to pursue a medical career, relevant experiences, and attributes that make them a viable candidate.

• Extracurricular Activities: Talk about extracurricular activities, community service, leadership roles, and research experiences that you have undertaken.

5. Prepare Your Finances:
• Medical studies can be costly, therefore, budgeting is essential. Look into various scholarship opportunities, grants, and financial aid possibilities that universities offer.

6. Applying for a Visa:
• On being accepted, your daughter must apply for a student visa (F-1 visa) to study in USA. This entails submitting necessary documents, attending an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate, and proving she can pay for her education and living costs.

7. Pre-departure Preparations:
• Before leaving for the USA, make accommodation, travel, and other essentials arrangements.

8. Arrival and Orientation:
• Once you arrive, adapt yourself to campus life and academic expectations by attending orientation programs organized by the university.

Depending on the university and course, the process can differ a little. Check the official websites of the universities your daughter is interested in frequently and adhere to their particular application guidelines and deadlines.

The medical sector in the USA being highly competitive, securing admission to medical schools can be difficult. Your daughter will need to maintain excellent academic standards, actively participate in extracurricular activities, and perform well on the required exams to increase her admission chances.

In addition, speaking with a qualified educational counselor or advisor who specializes in assisting students apply to foreign universities can provide tailored guidance throughout the application process.

For more information, you can visit our website.

Ans: Hello,

First and foremost, thank you for getting in touch with us. I am happy to hear that your child is currently studying in the 8th grade and you want him to pursue college in the USA. To answer your question first, I would like to tell you that scores of standardized tests viz., the ACT or SAT are required to secure admission to a number of colleges in the USA. These exams aid colleges in evaluating a student's preparedness for studies at the college level. I would like to tell you that although a solid intellectual foundation can be offered by programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge AICE, a number of colleges in the USA do not accept them as alternatives to the SAT/ACT.

I would recommend that you motivate your child to study for the ACT or SAT, and make sure he very well understands the unique prerequisites of the universities he wishes to apply to. Not just that, your son might also consider taking SAT Subject Tests as advised or mandated by certain universities. Remember, maintaining a high academic standing and participating in extracurricular activities, frequently influence US college admissions, and thus, your son should focus on the same.

For more information, you can visit our website.