Introduction to U.S. College Interviews: How to Stand Out Among Applicants

  As the summer comes to a close, the college application process for the upcoming academic year is in full swing. Students must prepare their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, extracurricular activities, personal statements, recommendation letters, and interviews — the six main components of a college application. Among these, the interview plays a critical role in helping schools stand out from a sea of similar application documents. It allows the institution to assess whether a student is a good fit for the school. For international students, the interview is also a key moment to evaluate their English proficiency. Many Taiwanese students feel intimidated by college interviews, mistakenly believing that interviewers will present difficult, tricky questions designed to trip them up. Others think that the subjective nature of the interview means that their academic achievements and other qualifications are sufficient to secure acceptance. Some parents even argue that since interviews don't account for a large portion of the application score, there's no need to invest too much time or effort in preparation. However, no one can be certain of the specific requirements or weight given to interviews by each school. Therefore, we recommend that students take advantage of the opportunity to interview when it arises, as it can be a key factor in distinguishing them from other applicants with similar grades and qualifications.   Common Types of Interview Invitations  ■ School-Specific Invitations After reviewing applications, admissions committees send interview invitations to students they are particularly interested in. These interviews tend to be more in-depth, as the school has already reviewed the applicant's materials and may seek clarification or further insight into specific details. ■ Open Invitations for All Applicants Less common, but some schools invite every applicant to interview. If you're eager to attend a specific school, we recommend seizing this opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm for the institution.  ■ No Invitation for Interviews As the number of applicants continues to rise globally, some schools have begun canceling interviews altogether.  ■ Mandatory Interviews for All Applicants Some institutions require interviews for all applicants. In such cases, the interview is often a significant factor in the overall application evaluation.    Admissions policies can change from year to year, so it's important to verify the latest information to determine whether an interview is required.   Purpose and Focus of U.S. College Interviews U.S. college interviews generally assess a student's language skills and adaptability. The interview allows schools to learn more about a student's academic interests and career goals. Therefore, it is essential to review all application materials, such as your resume, recommendation letters, and essays, before the interview. Being able to express your passion for your chosen field of study, explain why you're excited about the school, and articulate why it is your top choice are critical factors for success in the interview. In addition to self-presentation, researching the school and its programs is also vital preparation. The college application process is lengthy because schools aim to not only select outstanding students but also find individuals who will thrive in their unique environment.   Types of College Interviews ■ On-Campus In-Person Interviews These are typically conducted by admissions officers, distinguished alumni, professors, or teaching assistants, and take place at the school.  ■ Remote Interviews For students who live far from the campus, some schools offer remote interviews via phone or video call. These can take several forms:  - Representative Interview: A specific professor within the department interviews the applicant. - Panel Interview: Multiple professors interview the applicant, each asking different questions.  - Boss Interview: Often used for graduate school applications, where the applicant meets their future supervisor to discuss academic and research interests.  - Conference Interview: A controlled format designed to prevent cheating, where the interview is conducted via webcam. ■ Off-Site Interviews Some U.S. colleges visit major cities in Asia for interviews. This can be convenient for Taiwanese students who wish to avoid traveling to the U.S. for their interview. However, keep in mind that interviewers may conduct multiple interviews each day, making it challenging to distinguish between candidates.   Interview Duration Remote interviews typically last about 30 minutes. In-person interviews generally last between 45 minutes and one hour.   Documents to Bring to the Interview Before the interview, visit the school's website to understand its academic environment, campus culture, and course offerings. Prepare several responses to potential questions so you can be flexible during the interview. If the school reaches out to you directly, politely inquire about any documents you should bring. Even if they indicate that no documents are required, it's always a good idea to bring a few copies of your resume, extracurricular activities, awards, and other relevant materials.   Interview Pitfalls to Avoid:  Arriving late Giving overly brief answers Relying on notes or a script Lacking familiarity with the school Pretending to know things you don't Mentioning interest in other schools Avoid these mistakes to ensure you come across as prepared and respectful.   Common Interview Questions ■ "Tell us about yourself." Provide a concise and impactful introduction, highlighting your academic background, personal qualities, and interests. Think about how you can leave a lasting impression in a short amount of time. ■ "Why do you want to apply to this school?"                                                                                                                       This is your chance to show your enthusiasm for the school and demonstrate that you've done your research. Share why you believe you're a perfect fit and what you can contribute to the campus community. ■ "Do you have any questions for me?" Avoid asking questions that can easily be answered through a quick search online. Thoughtful, well-researched questions show that you've seriously considered the school and that you're using the interview time wisely.    As an international student, don't be overly concerned about language barriers. Being able to communicate in multiple languages is a valuable skill, demonstrating your ability to adapt to new environments, your independence, and your strong language abilities. Additionally, you may have unique experiences to share that set you apart from other applicants. Ultimately, no matter the type of interview, confidence is key. Show your maturity, self-assurance, and readiness to succeed at a U.S. college!   閱讀中文版文章：美國大學面試介紹，讓你在申請者中脫穎而出 Contact Us for High School Counseling & College Application Guidance  ​   Read More

Introduction to the Academic Calendar Systems of U.S. Universities: Semester, Quarter, Trimester, 4-1-4 or 4-4-1 Systems

  In the United States, universities adopt various academic calendar systems. Understanding these systems is crucial as they affect the calculation of graduation credits, teaching methods, and vacation periods. The four main types of academic systems are the Semester, Quarter, Trimester, and 4-1-4 or 4-4-1 systems. The flexibility of these options allows students to select the academic calendar that best fits their needs and learning goals.   1. Common System: Semester  The semester system is similar to Taiwan’s academic calendar, with two primary semesters: Fall Semester and Spring Semester, each lasting approximately 15 weeks.  Academic Timeline： Fall Semester: Begins in August and ends in December.  Spring Semester: Begins in January and ends in May.  Summer Session: Students can choose to take summer courses lasting 6–8 weeks.  Credit Calculation： Credits are measured as Semester Credits. One semester credit equals one hour of weekly class time (1 Semester Credit = 1 Semester Hour). Typically, a course involves three hours of class per week, earning students three credits. To graduate from a semester-based school, students generally need 120–128 semester credits.  Exam Schedule： Midterms: Fall Semester: Mid-October | Spring Semester: Mid-March   Final Exams: Fall Semester: Mid-December | Spring Semester: Mid-May Advantages： Familiar Structure - The semester system is similar to Taiwan’s, helping students adapt quickly to the rhythm of college life.  Internship Opportunities - With over three months of summer vacation, students can utilize this time to secure internships and gain experience. Many summer internships start recruiting in April or May, giving semester-system students an advantage in entering the workforce early. Employers often prefer semester-system students as they can take on substantial responsibilities during internships. Student-Professor Interaction - The longer duration of each semester allows ample time for students to interact with professors, fostering collaboration and rapport.  Disadvantages： Traditional Approach - While the semester system has been in use since the 19th century, some experts argue it may be too slow-paced and less efficient in today’s diverse educational landscape.  Reluctance to Try New Courses - The long duration of semesters may lead students to become overly comfortable, potentially missing opportunities to explore or expand their interests through courses at other universities.  Universities Using the Semester System： Brown University, Duke University, Columbia University, Pomona College, New York University, Rice University, University of Southern California, and others.    2. Common System: Quarter System The quarter system divides the academic year into four terms: Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer, with each term lasting approximately 10–12 weeks (Summer terms are 8–10 weeks). The pace is highly intensive. International students attending schools with the quarter system must enroll in at least three consecutive quarters per year to maintain their student status, with the Summer quarter considered a regular term.   Academic Timeline： Fall Quarter: Begins in September and ends in December.  Winter Quarter: Begins in January and ends in March.  Spring Quarter: Begins in April and ends in June.  Summer Quarter: Begins in June and ends in August. The exact duration of each quarter may vary by school. Some departments may not offer new courses every quarter.  Credit Calculation： In the quarter system, 1 Quarter Credit = 1 Quarter Hour, with one hour of weekly class time equivalent to one credit. Students typically take 14–18 quarter credits per term and need 180–192 quarter credits to graduate.  Exam Schedule： Each quarter includes:   Midterm Exams: Approximately one month into the term. Final Exams: About a month after the midterms.   Advantages： Flexible Enrollment - The quarter system offers flexible entry points. While most students apply for Fall admission after the summer break, schools may also allow enrollment in other quarters, providing additional options when choosing universities.   Rich Course Options - The condensed teaching format allows students to take more courses over the entire college program compared to the semester system. For example, students in the quarter system typically take 3–4 courses per term, whereas semester students take 4–5 courses. Over four years, quarter-system students may experience 6+ additional courses. This is particularly advantageous for students pursuing double majors or minors.   Flexible Scheduling - If students dislike a course or professor, they only need to endure the class for about 10 weeks. Similarly, if their GPA falls behind, frequent opportunities to take new courses allow students to catch up.  Disadvantages： • Academic Pressure - Due to the shorter duration of each term, students face frequent assessments, including quizzes, midterms, and finals, all within a 10-week span. This demands immediate adaptation and consistent effort throughout the quarter.  • Internship Opportunities - With shorter breaks, students in the quarter system are at a disadvantage in securing internships. They often have to start later and may need to leave earlier than semester-based students.  Universities Using the Quarter System： University of California (excluding UC Berkeley and UC Merced), University of Chicago, Stanford University, Northwestern University, Dartmouth College, University of Oregon, University of Washington, and others.    3. Trimester System： The less common Trimester System divides the academic year into three equal parts, with each term lasting four months.  Academic Timeline： First Term (Fall Semester): Begins in September and ends in December.   Second Term (Winter Semester): Begins in January and ends in April. Third Term (Spring-Summer Semester): Begins in late April and ends in August. This term is further divided into two smaller terms:   Spring Term: April to June.   Summer Term: June to August.   Credit Calculation： Credits are calculated based on the semester system. Trimester credits are equivalent to semester credits. For conversion purposes: Quarter Credits × 2/3 = Semester Credits.   However, courses taken under the Tri-Semester system are directly treated as semester credits without further conversion.   Universities using this system typically require international students to enroll in at least the Fall and Winter semesters annually, while the Spring-Summer term is optional.  Exam Schedule： Each four-month term includes two major exams:  Midterm Exams Final Exams  Advantages： Credit Flexibility - Students may earn up to 7.5 credits annually. If they fall behind, they can make up credits in the following term rather than waiting for the next academic year.  Focused Learning - The condensed format allows students to concentrate on the essentials of the course material.  Flexible Graduation Dates - Students can graduate at the end of the Fall or Winter semester, which is particularly convenient for those needing only a few credits to complete their degree. This system also offers opportunities for early graduation.  Disadvantages：  Academic Pressure - Similar to the quarter system, the shorter term length compresses the academic schedule. Exams and assignments occur at frequent intervals, requiring consistent effort throughout the term.  Scheduling Conflicts - This is considered the most significant drawback of the trimester system. The unconventional term schedule may interfere with summer internships, study abroad programs, or family vacations.  Universities Using the Trimester System： University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Carleton College, Lawrence University  While the trimester system is less common in the United States, it is more widely used in Europe, New Zealand, and Australia.    4. 4-1-4 System or 4-4-1 System This academic calendar divides the year into three phases, including two four-month semesters and a one-month mini-term. The mini-term can take place either between the two semesters (4-1-4) or after both semesters are completed (4-4-1).  Academic Timeline： 4-1-4 System:  Fall Semester: Starts in September and ends in December.  Mini-Term: Starts in January and ends in February.  Spring Semester: Starts in February and ends in May.  4-4-1 System: Similar to the 4-1-4 system, with a Fall Semester (September–December), Spring Semester (January–April), and a Summer Mini-Term (May–June), also known as the Maymester or May Term.  Exam Schedule： Midterm Exams: Fall: October Spring: March Final Exams Fall: December Spring: May  Universities Using the 4-1-4 System： Williams College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland Universities Using the 4-4-1 System： Bates University, Ohio State University   Mini-Term Opportunities:   During the one-month mini-term, many universities offer students opportunities for study abroad programs or off-campus internships, allowing them to make the most of their time.   Key Considerations:   Each academic system has its pros and cons. Whether you're preparing to apply or already studying at a U.S. university, it's crucial to understand the academic calendar of your school. This knowledge can help you plan each term effectively.     A. League supports you in exploring all your options before applying to universities, helping you make the best choice for your academic needs and transition smoothly into college life.     閱讀中文版文章：美國大學學制介紹：學期制、學季制、三學期制、4-1-4制或4-4-1制 Contact Us for High School Counseling & College Application Guidance​ Read More

Liberal Arts Education: General Education in the U.S.

It is normal for high school students to feel unsure about choosing a major. However, there’s no need to worry too much, as most American universities adopt a "General Education" system. Students don’t have to feel pressured to decide on a major before entering college. During their first two years, they take general education courses, which allow them to explore their interests. By the third year, they choose a major and begin to delve deeply into a specific field of study.     What is General Education？ General Education originates from the diversity of American culture and the variety of its educational models. It is a defining feature of the U.S. university curriculum. Nearly all U.S. universities require students to complete general education courses as part of earning a bachelor’s degree. The purpose of these courses is to provide students with a broad base of knowledge, helping them unlock their potential and apply what they’ve learned to enrich their lives.    General Education Course Content Each university in the U.S. varies in the design, teaching methods, and credit requirements for general education courses. Typically, students are required to take a diverse set of general education courses each semester. The aim is to cultivate a well-rounded learning experience and broaden their perspectives. Below are the main categories of general education courses:    1. English and Literature English courses ensure students grasp fundamental educational skills and enhance their comprehension through language and literature. From practicing writing to appreciating world literature, these courses allow students to gain a deeper understanding of the world.  Common Subjects: English Literature, Composition or Writing, Analyzing & Interpreting Literature.    2. Mathematics Even for students not pursuing a math-related major, it’s essential to have basic math knowledge to interpret and understand research results.  Common Subjects：College Algebra, Principles of Statistics, Business Math.    3. Science Science courses help students develop logical thinking skills. From scientific knowledge to scientific reasoning, these courses teach students how to ask questions, think critically, and solve problems.  Common Subjects：Introduction to Biology, General Chemistry, Earth Science, Physics I.    4. Social Science Social science courses aim to help students build good interaction and relationship skills with others in society.  Common Subjects：Introduction to Sociology, Public Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to World Religions.    5. Humanities Through the study of humanities and history, students gain insight into cultural development and refine their critical thinking by exploring past human experiences and envisioning the future.  Common subjects: U.S. History, Western Civilization I: Ancient Near East through 1648, Western Civilization II: 1648 to Today, Introduction to Philosophy.    6. Arts Art courses cultivate students’ artistic literacy, encouraging them to use their senses, imagination, and creativity to engage with diverse cultural art forms.  Common subjects: Intro to Music, Art of the Western World, Modern Dance I.   7. Foreign Language Mastering a second language beyond English helps students understand global cultures, expand their international perspective, and develop new communication skills. Many universities offer courses in languages such as Chinese, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, and Japanese. For international students from Taiwan, their native fluency in Chinese and prior high school language courses often fulfill foreign language requirements, so they typically don’t need to take additional language classes.    Top Universities and General Education Harvard College The preface of Harvard’s General Education Red Book states that the goal of Harvard’s general education is to cultivate the "Whole Person," defined as a "Good Person + Responsible Citizen + Useful Individual." Even today, the Harvard General Education Red Book remains one of the ten most influential works on American education. Over nearly a century, Harvard has developed its teaching philosophy based on a “Core Curriculum,” serving as a global model for general education that nurtures students' knowledge, skills, values, and responsibilities comprehensively.  Click to learn more about Harvard College   Brown University Unlike other universities’ core curricula or course distribution requirements, Brown University offers students the freedom to explore various disciplines. Students can skip courses they dislike and devote more time to subjects they’re passionate about. All courses can be taken on a pass/fail basis, and failed courses do not appear on transcripts. However, because of the university’s minimal regulations, students must take more responsibility for planning their educational journey. To support this, every first- and second-year student is assigned an academic advisor who regularly discusses their academic progress and plans, encouraging exploration across disciplines.  Click to learn more about Brown University   General education enables students to develop diverse potential alongside their chosen fields of study, embodying the spirit of holistic and lifelong education.    閱讀中文版文章：博雅教育的體現：美國通識教育 (General Education) Contact Us for High School Counseling & College Application Guidance Read More

Debunking Myths: Do You Really Understand U.S. College Rankings?

When applying to universities in the United States, referring to college rankings is a common practice for many. From the highly authoritative U.S. News & World Report to the QS World University Rankings, these lists often serve as benchmarks. However, since each ranking organization uses different criteria for evaluation, the question “Who truly decides?” frequently lingers in people’s minds. In reality, rankings are not the sole measure of a university’s quality. We should let go of an obsession with rankings because, despite their seemingly objective nature, various factors influence the positions. Focusing solely on rankings might cause us to overlook more important, genuine aspects, potentially missing out on the school that is truly the best fit.   Understand how the rankings were calculated:   The rankings methodology changes from year to year. Take the 2025 U.S. News & World Report National Universities Rankings for example, there are 17 factors and they weight differently in calculation. If some of the criteria are not of your interest, then the rankings probably do not speak to you. For example, international students are not eligible for Pell Grant and loans, so the weights in Pell Graduation Rate, Pell Graduation Performance, and Borrower Debt do not necessarily come with a result that is as appealing as weighting the SAT or ACT, which "measure a school's ability to attract students who can handle rigorous coursework."     Before referring to rankings, understand the differences between public and private universities: There are over 4,000 universities and colleges in the United States. Beyond distinctions such as four-year and two-year programs, schools are also categorized as public or private institutions.    The key differences between public and private universities are:    1. Source of Funding Public universities primarily receive funding from federal, state, and local governments, which is why they are also called state universities. Private universities, on the other hand, rely on donations from entities such as churches, alumni associations, corporations, and foundations, as well as tuition paid by students.    2. Historical Background Generally, private universities have a longer history than public ones. For example, over half of the Ivy League schools were established during the colonial era. Public universities began to emerge and gain prominence after the 19th century.   3. Campus Size Public universities in the U.S. tend to have larger campuses and higher student populations compared to private institutions. Due to state government funding, public schools often feature more extensive campus facilities and serve more students. Private universities, often located in urban centers due to their historical context, tend to have smaller campuses and fewer students. One hallmark of private universities is their small class sizes.   4. Tuition Costs Public universities, subsidized by government funding, typically have lower tuition fees than private universities. In general, public universities are designed to serve local students, so in-state tuition is lower than out-of-state tuition. In contrast, private universities often charge over $40,000 per year in tuition. Additionally, since many private universities are located in urban areas, living expenses can also add up significantly.   5. Student Demographics Public universities aim to ensure access to educational resources for local students and prioritize in-state applicants. They also consider out-of-state and international students to promote cultural diversity. Private universities, free from geographical constraints, have no such limitations on student demographics. However, this difference does not imply that public universities are of lower quality than private ones. Each school conducts a rigorous review process when evaluating applicants.    Breaking the Myths Between Public and Private Universities The perceived prestige gap between public and private universities has long been a topic of debate. In the U.S. News university rankings, the top spots were predominantly occupied by private universities—a trend that has remained consistent over the years. This has led many to believe that private universities in the U.S. are inherently better than public ones. However, this perception does not align with reality.   Public universities are primarily funded by state governments through tax revenues, with additional support from federal government grants for research, equipment, and student aid. On the other hand, private universities rely heavily on donations from alumni, foundations, and other organizations, supplemented by tuition fees, which are often significantly higher than those at public universities.    In recent years, due to global economic shifts, government funding for public higher education in the U.S. has fallen below historical levels. These budget cuts have forced public universities to reduce need-based and merit-based scholarships for students. faculty numbers, and academic programs, placing them at a disadvantage compared to private universities with more robust financial resources. As a result, public universities often rank lower than private universities, even when other factors are relatively equal.   When referencing university rankings, avoid focusing on a single criterion. Instead, consider a comprehensive range of factors, such as academic programs, locations, facilities, faculty-to-student ratios, and scholarly reputation. The most important step to build a balanced college list is to clarify your own goals and identify diverse metrics that align with your values and aspirations.   閱讀中文版文章：破解迷思：你真的了解美國大學排名嗎？   High School Counseling & College Application Guidance Program Read More

擇校時代：美國公立重點學校 - 磁鐵學校 Magnet School

  從關注教育體制改革到重視孩子的全能發展，父母親會積極的為孩子找尋合適的學校，天下父母心，這個現象舉世皆然，尤其是在美國，學校類型多種，現在有愈來愈多元化的選擇。   美國基礎教育系統K-12階段主要分為以下三種類別： - 私立學校 (Private School） - 公立學校（Public School） - 特許學校（Character School）   而其中公立學校中的「磁鐵學校」（Magnet School），依照字面理解即為「有吸引力的學校」，也就是所謂的重點學校，每一年都會吸引廣大的學生族群。《U.S. News》每年會發表美國五十州的公立高中排名，其中「磁鐵學校」總是名列前矛。       磁鐵學校是由政府提供經費支持的公立學校，學校根據學生的興趣特點開設豐富多元的課程以適合學生的成長和發展，磁鐵學校因為比私立學校更便宜，教學質量高，是許多學生心目中的首選。通常磁鐵學校規模較大，並會吸引學區外的學生前來就讀，甚至還有不少父母為了孩子就讀磁鐵學校而搬家的情形。不過，想要進到磁鐵學校就讀並不容易，申請時需要接受入學考試，通常一年只有一到兩次的考試機會，由於申請者眾多，抽籤入學是必然的。   起源於1960年代，磁鐵學校是為了打破種族分隔而建立的。傳統的美國公立學校是以就近上學為原則，在城市裡，貧民區往往是非裔或其他少數民族集中的地區，進而導致了不少學校學生的種族單一，學校之間學生教育水平的差別也就自然而然地和膚色連在了一起。 因此，大多數的磁鐵學校集中在大型及中型的城市。磁鐵學校的成立宗旨是希望能夠縮小不同種族學生之間的差異，促進種族和諧，並使所有的孩子能夠平等地在卓越的學習環境中發揮潛能。   磁鐵學校建立在多元化、創新課程、專業發展、學術卓越、高質量教學系統、家庭和社區合作的五大支柱之上。這五項的關係不僅僅是一個基礎，而是一個指南針，致力引導每一位學生做好充分準備面對未來。這五項成功的關鍵使磁鐵學校成為充滿活力及熱情的學習環境。      磁鐵學校重視的教學主題： - STEM Education（指的是結合科學、技術、工程及數學的整合教育） - 藝術及表演藝術 - 國際文憑大學預科課程（IB） - 職業技術教育（CTE） - 國際語言 （沈浸式/非沈浸式）   紐約著名的磁鐵學校有 Stuyvesant High School，The Bronx High School of Science和Brooklyn Technical High School 等。 加州著名的磁鐵學校有California Academy Of Mathematics And Science，Francisco Bravo Medical Magnet High School，Troy High School，Irvington High School，Granada Hills Charter High，Davis Senior High，Granite Bay High，Downtown Magnets High School，Palisades Charter High School 等。   磁鐵學校強調適性適才發展，讓人盡其才、地盡其利、物盡其用，達成適性發展的教育功能，自由選項已是最高境界，尊重個性發展令人肅然起敬。     高中升學＆申請大學輔導歡迎洽詢 A. League 專業顧問   Read More

面對美國大學招生政策的爭議，你該知道的事

  美國是來自世界各地移民組成的大熔爐，這片土地上蘊含著不同的種族及文化，豐富多元的背景下，仍難避免因種族引起的紛爭。直到今日，美國的高等教育中仍存在著或明或暗的爭議：如篩選錄取者的「種族配額」(Racial Quota)制度到與利益相關的「Z名單」(Z-list)。對於想要申請美國大學的學生而言，了解這些爭議是非常重要的。   和亞洲「一考定終身」的理念不同，美國大學申請的過程中，學校通常會透過多元面向來評估申請者： 高中在校成績 考試成績：如ACT及SAT考試結果 課外活動及專長 學生的身份背景 （如種族、國籍、父母教育背景、及經濟情況等）   在這四項中，前三項往往是亞裔學生的強項，亞裔學生在考試成績、學術水平表現突出，但有些在各領域表現無懈可擊的學生卻被頂尖大學，如哈佛、普林斯頓等拒絕。研究指出，沒有種族設限的的大學，如加州理工大學，亞裔學生比例是長春藤名校2倍，證明某些學校的錄取過程中「種族配額」制度影響了亞裔學生的錄取機會。「我的條件明明更好，為什麼考上的卻是他們？」、「 設下規範是種族歧視，還是保證族裔平等？」針對招生政策不公的爭議及討論開始浮出檯面。   《經濟學人》（The Economist）雜誌曾在一篇文章中提到，儘管美國的高中生數量在一直增加，哈佛大學的亞裔學生比例近十年來卻一直維持在20%左右；近年，哈佛大學遭控招生程序存在種族歧視及特殊標準的爭議持續升溫。日前哈佛大學的招生主任出面證實，常春藤學校的確對不同族裔會有不同的成績標準，因為他們想要打破循環，讓部分通常不考慮申請常春藤學校的族群願意申請，也說明個人評分僅是評估的一個項目，並非是欺壓亞裔學生，並堅定的維護「全面評估」的招生政策。 針對哈佛大學錄取歧視亞裔的種族風波，同時揭開了該校的秘密政策，《紐約時報》(New York Times)公佈的一份報告顯示，2014年到2018年哈佛的學生中，每年大約有50到60名學生通過「Z名單」被錄取，只要這些學生推遲一年時間入學。原告在訴訟中說，「Z名單」是讓校友子女進入大學的一種方式，即使他們在學業上不具備資格。有關哈佛大學錄取的其他爭議還包括存在「院長關注名單」或「主任關注名單」，據說這些學生的家庭都與哈佛大學有捐贈利益上的關係。   那麼，在競爭激烈的名校中，如何擺脫種族身份脫穎而出呢？ 針對這個問題，沒有標準答案，但是亞裔學生「硬本事」不差，主要是差在「軟實力」。   高中的學業成績和SAT成績是美國大學在錄取學生時首先考慮的條件，沒有好的成績學生要進入一流大學是不太可能實現的。反之，美國一流大學在錄取學生時，並不是只把成績當成唯一的錄取標準。從美國的名校錄取學生的模式來看，SAT考試成績只是一個門檻，過了這個門檻之後，分數就變得不是首要評估標準。  通常華裔學生的課外活動與興趣愛好都大同小異，如繪畫、樂器演奏，而做義工大多是到醫院或是圖書館等，看似豐富、但如出一徹之下，反而會缺少競爭力，當大多數人都在進行相同類型的活動時，學校是很難分析出一個人的特質，也就無法做出選擇這個學生的決定。   想要收到名校的錄取信，學生一定要具備特殊性，才能從人才濟濟的申請者中嶄露頭角。從美國名校錄取以及教育的特性可以看出，美國教育最大的一個特點是培養個人獨立的特質，進而實現人才輩出的教育理念。       高中升學＆申請大學輔導歡迎洽詢 A. League 專業顧問                       Read More

Making the Most of AP Courses & Understanding the Significance of AP Exams

      AP exam scores are officially released every July, with updates rolling out in the following days. Many students eagerly receive their results, celebrating their hard-earned achievements. Enrolling in AP courses and taking AP exams not only strengthens academic skills but also highlights competitiveness. Beyond reflecting diligence and effort, each AP exam score carries its own significance.     關於AP (Advanced Placement)美國大學先修課程的詳細介紹    What Is AP (Advanced Placement), and Why Does It Matter? AP (Advanced Placement) is a rigorous program offering high school students college-level courses and the opportunity to earn college credit through exams. AP courses are more challenging than standard classes and are ideal for students passionate about specific subjects who are willing to dedicate extra effort and time to learning.  While AP scores are not a mandatory requirement for U.S. college applications, they have become essential assets in an increasingly competitive admissions landscape. High AP scores demonstrate academic strength and readiness, making applicants stand out.     Should You Take as Many AP Exams as Possible? While AP courses provide in-depth knowledge and the opportunity to showcase academic ability, it’s not about taking as many exams as possible. Instead, focus on selecting courses aligned with your interests and future goals. For instance, if your aspirations lie in STEM, prioritize AP courses in science and math rather than unrelated subjects. Proper planning ensures that AP courses genuinely enhance your college application.  Before selecting AP courses, ask yourself:  Are my course choices balanced and aligned with my academic goals?  Have I prepared adequately and managed my time effectively to meet the challenges of AP coursework?    What Do AP Scores Mean? AP exam scores range from 1 to 5, derived from multiple-choice and free-response sections. These scores serve as an indicator of subject proficiency and can play a critical role in earning college credit. Here's what each score represents:  1: The lowest score, indicating no college credit will be awarded. This score provides no benefit for college applications.  2: Demonstrates partial understanding of the subject but insufficient for college credit. This score is generally not recommended for submission in applications.  3: A passing score that signifies a solid grasp of the subject. Depending on the institution, a score of 3 may qualify for college credit. Consult advisors to determine submission strategies.  4：A strong score that often earns college credit and showcases thorough preparation. Colleges regard this score favorably.   5：The highest standard, reflecting mastery of the subject. A score of 5 sets applicants apart in the admissions process.      What If Your AP Exam Didn’t Go Well? Cancelling Scores   If you sent scores to colleges during the exam and later decide to cancel, submit a request by June 15. Keep in mind that cancellations are permanent, so weigh the decision carefully.   Rescoring   Students who feel their multiple-choice performance was under-evaluated can request rescoring through College Board for $30 per subject. Requests must be submitted by October 31, and the process takes 6–8 weeks. Note that rescoring may lower your score, so proceed cautiously.   Accessing Free-Response Booklets   While free-response questions cannot be rescored, students can request their original booklets (without annotations or grades) for $10 per subject. This allows students to review their performance and identify areas for improvement. The deadline for requests is September 15.     Proper planning and effective use of AP courses can set you up for success, helping you reach new heights in your academic journey.     Official College Board AP Website: https://apstudent.collegeboard.org   閱讀中文版文章：妥善運用AP課程 ＆了解AP考試的意義 Contact Us for High School Counseling & College Application Guidance  ​ Read More

美國大學科系怎麼選？五個引導你找到適合科系的關鍵

    申請大學是每位學生求學生涯中重要的里程碑，建構人生藍圖的同時將面臨許多重要的抉擇，一直以來挑選玲琅滿目的科系是許多學生會碰到一大難題，擔心選錯科系會影響未來生涯發展，甚至害怕會因爲沒有興趣而面臨轉系等問題。 正式做出決定之前，仔細地搜集資訊、討論、自我評估是非常重要的，以下分享幾個在挑選科系時可以自我評估的問題，有助於你探索出人生的方向。   我現在要馬上決定主修的科系嗎？ 多數的美國大學在入學時並不會要求學生立即決定主修的科系，通常是在二年級後才需要開始選擇特定的科系，所以有部分的學生是以「未決定科系(undecided)」及「通識教育(liberal arts)」入學。然而，申請大學時，學生若是對特定的科系表現出熱忱，是有助於申請結果的，因為每一所大學會有不同的校系分配需求，當你有明確的方向時，校方能夠更容易的知道你適不適合學校的整體結構。   我在高中有哪些擅長的科目及興趣？ 尋找合適自己的大學及決定科系之前，最重要的關鍵在於你是否對這個科系懷抱著熱情。可以透過你在高中擅長的科目及興趣當作線索，進而了解自己適合哪一種學科領域。例如：在高中時喜歡科學並在AP Biology 課程中有傑出表現的同學可以選擇醫學類科系、對文字充滿愛好並擅長寫作的同學則可以考慮朝密集型寫作專業發展，如新聞學、政治學及英語。   這個科系有哪一些要求呢？ 為了能夠在校系挑選中做出明智的決定，你需要清楚的了解每一個科系所涵蓋的內容並衡量是否符合個人條件及需求。 科系申請要求及條件：不同的科系會有不同的要求及必備條件，例如相關領域的課程、實習經驗或外語能力等。 科系的廣度和深度：透徹的了解科系內容，如課程架構、上課方式、畢業標準、師生比例等。   我該怎麼做才能更了解這個科系？ 除了研究課程之外，不妨造訪大學更深入的了解科系及學校環境，透過實地經歷大學情境及體驗學習模式，有助於你做出更實際的判斷。   這個科系與我的未來前景相符嗎？ 選擇科系前可以搜尋此科系的產業情形，你可以透過確切的數據資料了解就業的比例及起薪等。若大學畢業後想要申請工作許可（OPT）進行實習工作，也可以了解這個科系是否有提供相關機會。 許多科系的專業可以融入到各個職場中，所以不要過度擔心未來被“侷限”在特定的職業中，大學期間透過實習和進修課程，能夠發掘你的個人特質及職業興趣。對一些學生來說選擇科系十分容易，也有一部份學生是利用一二年級，嘗試修習不同領域的課程，從中發掘或確認自己喜歡的科目。無論哪一種方式，找出自己的興趣，為自己安排最適合的志願，是最重要的。           高中在學輔導＆申請大學輔導歡迎洽詢 A. League 專業顧問  Read More

聰明應對候補名單(waitlist)的申請結果

美國大學常見的申請結果通常為：錄取(admitted)，候補(waitlisted)及拒絕(rejected)。 除了錄取與拒絕已成定局之外，候補(Waitlisted)是捉摸不定的結果。習慣肯定及否定兩種答案的學生，往往會在這種懸而未決的狀態中感到煎熬。 每個人的申請情況不盡相同，與其在漫長的等待中舉步維艱，不如嘗試以下方式來增加下一輪的錄取機會，探索其他可能性並根據目標做出最適當的決定。    了解大學的後補運作流程 在決定下一步該怎麼走時，了解大學的後補作業流程十分重要。每一所大學有不同的後補政策，可以透過上網搜尋該校往年的候補情形進行評估，例如：往年候補名單有多少申請者、多少人接受/拒絕候補、最終轉正錄取人數等。 大多數的大學在開始接受申請時會預測大約有多少學生註冊，當人數無法確切估算時，並會將部分符合申請資格的申請者放入候補名單中，待學校重新確認招生比例及名額後，就會開始「轉正」候補名單中的學生。   候補名單不一定有排名順序，最終的錄取結果可能是根據其他因素決定，例如招生委員可能會按照學校需求而補充特定科系的學生。   決定是否留在候補名單上 如果候補中的學校確實是你的第一志願，那麼留在候補名單是獲得錄取機會的唯一途徑。相反地，如果你有了其他更好的選擇，那便可以離開候補名單。無論你的決定是什麼，記住一定要按照校方指示，正式接受或拒絕候補名單的邀請。   在確認要留在候補名單之後，再分成三種步驟： 不要補資料：有些學校只希望學生給予簡潔的回覆，並明確闡明請學生除了回覆外不要再寄送額外的資料，這個時候請務必遵從校方的指示，避免造成校方困擾及反感。 依學校要求補充資料：有些學校會在候補通知中要求補件，也有可能是在學生接受候補後，另外再寄一封信並針對先前的申請文件內容索取進一步的資料。即時回傳資料，可以表現出你對學校積極及誠意。 學校無特別指示：有些學校對於候補的補件方式沒有明確的規範，這時可以考慮禮貌的給予簡單的回覆，並適當地提供你想補充的資料。   候補期間，和學校聯繫的過程中一定要保持禮貌和尊重，如果學校明確的說明不接受任何補充文件或信件，請不要違反規定，更不要過度頻繁地聯繫招生單位，造成不必要的反效果。   Plan B: 多一份保障，多一份安心 在候補名單中的你，即使對錄取機會有極大的信心，但為了保險起見，記得考慮周全並選擇一所保底的學校。許多候補通知是要到5月1日，也就是大多數大學的註冊截止日之後才會公布，所以權衡之計十分重要，避免將候補中的學校當成唯一的選擇。   展現你的熱情 如果你選擇留在候補名單中，並確認校方接受額外的資料，你可以寫一封信分享近況來展現你對該校的熱忱。 信件內容可以包含： 重申你對學校的濃厚興趣 具體描述你適合這所大學的理由 闡述錄取後一定會選擇這所學校的決心 自最初的申請提交至今，你又更近一步的成長：提供成績方面的突破資訊及最新的比賽榮譽等 信件的內容請避免瑣碎的訊息，內容要少而精、有份量，一封真誠及經過認真思考的的信件才能夠產生正面的影響。   收到Waitlist的結果不要灰心，候補不等於拒絕，反而代表著一線希望，千萬不要因此而輕易放棄！     高中在學輔導＆申請大學輔導歡迎洽詢 A. League 專業顧問  Read More

How to Write an Impressive College Application Resume? Six Tips to Stand Out

A college application resume is a crucial part of your application package. In the admissions process abroad, grades are not the only consideration; personal interests and development are also highly valued. Submitting an outstanding resume allows the admissions team to quickly understand your academic and extracurricular experiences, and it provides a comprehensive view of your overall performance.   A great resume speaks for itself and serves as your first impression. Here are some tips to make your resume even more impressive:    1. Use the Summer to Enhance Your Resume Summer is a great time to explore your interests and build new skills without the pressure of academic work. Properly planning your summer can allow you to self-improve while enriching your resume. Apart from continuing to read, choosing extracurricular activities is also important. These activities should align with your interests and challenge you while also being relevant to your college application.   2. Focus on Key Themes in Your Resume Like any good essay, a strong resume needs a central theme that runs through it. Before writing, ask yourself the following questions:  How has your learning experience shaped you? What experiences do you want to gain in the future?  What are you most passionate about?  The content of your resume should be related to these key themes. Be sure to express your interests and enthusiasm in your descriptions. When talking about your work, internships, or academic experiences, highlight your abilities and goals.    3. Showcase Your Personal Traits Soft skills and hard skills are both valuable and help you grow in various environments. Soft skills, like teamwork, creativity, problem-solving, communication, and leadership, are particularly useful. Once you understand these skills, you can use relevant verbs such as "devised," "created," or "developed" to highlight your personal traits and emphasize your strengths.    4. Keep It Concise For a college resume, avoid the misconception that more content is better. Long-winded descriptions can have a negative effect. Your resume should condense your life into one page, focusing on valuable experiences. Using data to support your descriptions is a great way to show how your hard work has led to tangible results. While additional items might seem to make the resume look richer, remember that highlighting your strengths is what matters most.    5. Check, Check, and Check Again Your resume is your first impression, so take every possible measure to avoid careless errors. After completing your resume, check for spelling, grammar, font, and formatting mistakes. You can also ask friends or classmates to proofread it for you to minimize overlooked details.    6. Seek Feedback Share your resume with parents, relatives, friends, or teachers for feedback. Having another pair of eyes can give you a fresh perspective and help you present your personal traits in a more balanced and objective way.      A great resume will help you stand out and improve your chances of getting accepted!   閱讀中文版文章：如何撰寫令人印象深刻的入學申請履歷？六個小技巧，讓你脫穎而出 A. LEAGUE High School Counseling & College Application Guidance Read More