How to Develop an Application Strategy
1.) Elite Private Schools
First, you must consider that applying to elite private schools is even more competitive than applying to Ivy League universities. Schools like Andover, Exeter, and Deerfield have acceptance rates lower than Harvard or Yale. This means that strong grades and test scores alone are not enough. Preparation must begin as early as Grade 5–6.
Key Preparation Requirements:
- Academic Excellence: Consistent A grades in all core subjects (Math, English, Science)
- English Proficiency: TOEFL 100+ or Duolingo 130+
- Standardized Testing: SSAT scores in the 90th percentile (approximately 2300+)
- Unique Activities: Leadership roles, volunteer service, research projects, competitive sports, music, and other distinctive achievements
- Writing Skills: Essays at a college-application level of quality
- Interview Skills: Ability to think critically, reason logically, and respond thoughtfully to in-depth interview questions
2.) Good Day Schools and Middle-Range Boarding Schools
Admission to these schools is relatively more accessible (TOEFL 80+, GPA 3.5+).
However, future college success depends heavily on the level of preparation.
Key Preparation Points:
- Academic Planning: Learn U.S. classroom styles, including essay writing, presentations, and project-based learning
- Life Skills: Master time management and self-directed study habits
- System Understanding: Understand the structure of U.S. education, such as AP course planning and SAT preparation
Activity Building: Build a strong extracurricular portfolio through school clubs and external activities
3.) School Visit Process
Students can visit U.S. schools anytime through BGE, which provides fully customized visit planning and support.
School Visit Basic Steps:
- Consultation with BGE to select suitable schools
- Official appointment scheduling with each school through BGE
- Preparing a self-introduction and list of questions before visiting
- Evaluation after the visit to refine application strategies
💡 Important:
At elite schools, whether or not a student visits (and the impression they leave during the visit) often influences admission decisions.
Good Day Schools and Middle-Range Boarding Schools also expect students to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit through visits.
4.) Easy Schools ≠ “Bad Schools”
Entering an “easy school” does not mean settling for a low-quality education.
Many students from these schools have successfully transferred to Ivy League universities after building strong academic records.
Advantages of Easy Schools:
- Flexible entry requirements allow students to quickly start their U.S. education journey
- Easier adjustment and lower initial academic pressure
- Opportunity to build confidence and healthy study habits
- After gaining experience, it’s easier to transfer to higher-tier schools
- Ideal for students who started preparation later
Conclusion:
Starting later does not mean giving up on a dream education.
With the right support system and steady academic improvement, Easy Schools can be an excellent launchpad for top university admissions.
Summary
- Elite Private Schools: Require a 2–3 year preparation plan with a strong, distinctive academic and extracurricular portfolio.
- Good Day Schools / Middle-Range Boarding Schools: Focus on academic readiness, independent study skills, and understanding the U.S. school system.
- Easy Schools: Offer flexible entry points and a great opportunity to build credentials for future advancement.
U.S. Study Abroad Success:
Beyond what schools require, success depends equally on family trust, real-world school life preparation, and strategic college readiness planning.