Selection by an appropriate university is one thing you don't want to leave to the last minute; it is recommended that you begin your search 18 months in advance. Researching your options, contacting teachers and institutions on your short list, filling out application forms and preparing for entrance exams is very time-consuming. Start out by determining the field of study you intend to pursue and then start researching universities that offer this major.
There is no limit to the number of universities you can apply to, and either hard copy or online applications are accepted by most universities. In the interest of quality control, it is best to make a short list of a minimum of five and a maximum of 10 universities that you are seriously interested in. Prepare a mission statement detailing your interest in your chosen field as this may be required as part of the application process. Applying to universities whose requirements best match your profile increases your chances of admission. You will also need to organize official copies of academic records sent directly from the school(s) you attended to the universities.
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or American College Testing (ACT), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) exam scores may be required when applying to U.S. universities. Testing dates are available all year-round and registration should be done one month prior to the deadline date. The exams are sets of tools that help to assess the student's academic-readiness for university.
For most university applications, a typical application packet will contain general documents. The documents required are usually an application form, application fees, academic records, admission test results, a statement of purpose for graduate programs, an essay for undergraduate programs, recommendation letters and a financial support affidavit.
For the majority of universities, the deadline for application submission is the middle of January each year. Students are advised to check with the specific universities regarding exact dates. U.S. universities often offer early admission programs that have early application deadlines.