Comprehensive and Measured Advice for US University Applications

The American university application process is unique; it is unlike applying to university in other countries. It is much more complicated, with particular and unique requirements. Academic excellence is not the only application dimension, which differs from the expectations at European, Asian, and other international universities.

At Ivy Education, our expert US university admission consultants offer a thorough and bespoke service for students looking to apply to university in the United States. We guide your child at each step of the journey, providing support tailored to the demands of US admissions.

Our team has strong links and relationships with many of the USA’s top universities, including Ivy League schools such as Harvard and Yale, and will develop a focused and targeted approach following an initial consultation.

Oya Christie-Miller - Ivy Education
Consultant Profile

Oya

Careers & Universities Consultant

"Oya specialises in supporting students with their options after school, including university degree choices, structuring a gap year and applying to apprenticeships. She also gives guidance on subject choices at GCSE, BTEC, A Level, Pre-U and IB."

Full Profile

A full US university application service

Our team of expert university admission consultants can support your family through every step of the US university admission process.

For students wanting advice on US university applications, we begin by arranging an initial meeting with one of our experienced university application consultants.

At Ivy Education, we generally advise parents and students to start thinking as early as 9th Grade (Year 10). Developing interests and extracurricular activities can be more difficult when these activities are not provided readily at school. From Year 11 (10th Grade) onwards, students should expect a carefully crafted timetable covering SAT or ACT preparation, SAT II Subject Tests, application timelines, and extracurricular activities.

Beginning as early as the 9th Grade or Year 10, our consultant will prepare a personalised timeline so your child can manage their application and highlight the dates of any standardised tests.

Applications to the US are judged against multiple criteria: academics, leadership, extracurricular involvement, volunteering, and "likeability" (demonstrated through essays and recommendations). Academics form the baseline for admission. For example, a score lower than 1450 without strong additional factors is very unlikely to secure admission to a top-tier university.

Once the academic standard is met, the broader elements of the application come into play; something our US admissions consulting services are designed to address.

Application Support Across Every Stage

In the 10th Grade or Year 11, the consultant will update the application and testing timeline whilst offering guidance on final A-Level, IB or Pre-U subject choices.

They will help your child research universities and colleges and, if necessary, assist with applications for summer programmes to strengthen the student’s academic profile. Alongside continued academic check-ins, they may also recommend relevant work experience and help build a strong CV.

By the 12th Grade or Year 13, our university admission consultants will help your child develop an application list aligned with predicted grades and standardised test scores.

They will assist in developing an early application strategy, communicate with universities about extenuating circumstances or additional information, offer detailed personal statement and supplemental essay advice, and ensure your child completes all applications across different platforms, including the Common App, Coalition Application, and individual university portals, within deadlines.

They will also provide guidance on following up after applications and help your child make an informed final university selection once offers are received.

The Importance of Extracurricular Excellence

Admission to a top school usually requires at least one very strong extracurricular. There are a few metrics with which to think about these activities.

When evaluating extracurriculars, key factors include:

  • Whether the activity is recognised at the school, local, national, or international level.

  • Evidence of excellence, such as awards, leadership roles, or special recognition.

While sports and music are classic extracurriculars, students can distinguish themselves through a wide range of activities, from starting a company, founding a charity, contributing to a think tank, or pursuing original creative projects. Ivy Education’s university consultants help students develop and highlight the extracurricular achievements that will most strengthen their application.

Your US Application Journey

Whether it be Tuition or end to end Educational Consultancy - Ivy Education will support your family with every step of their US Application Journey.

Speak with our experts

Our expert education team will discuss your family’s needs and explain how Ivy Education will provide support designed for you.

Exclusive advice from top US consultants who have decades of experience in the best US universities. They will discuss your family’s aspirations and align these with realistic and focused goals, creating a clear and concise roadmap to studying in the US and helping you achieve your aims.

Comprehensive Support

Academic Assessments

Providing insights into your child’s ability, these will inform both the advisory process and tuition programme. We will track their progress throughout with regular reports and communication.

On-going bespoke tuition

Our tuition prepares your child for their exams and for studying in the US, all designed around each student’s needs.

Your child's application is polished

Your child's application will be planned, developed, and refined, while also working on assessment, exam and interview preparation to put you in the best place to succeed.

Target universities are shortlisted

The university placement process starts, with Ivy Education able to help with all the tricky and lengthy administrative elements.

We can help you with organising visits, if required, so you can experience these wonderful universities first-hand.

Decision-making process

Ivy Education will support you with the final decision-making process and put you in the best position to secure a place.

We will take care of all your child's legal and pastoral needs. Visas and guardians are arranged, if necessary. We can also appoint a mentor or Director of Studies as appropriate.

Final Stages

We ensure that they feel happy and confident from the first day at their new university, and can provide further support as needed.


Get in touch to start the process

Begin your academic journey with Ivy Education.


US University Consultancy – Frequently Asked Questions

Our expert consultants provide personalised, comprehensive support for students applying to American universities. From choosing universities to managing deadlines and applications, we help families navigate every step of the US admissions process.

The US application process is more complex than other systems. In addition to strong academics, universities assess extracurricular activities, leadership, community involvement, and personal qualities. Our US admissions consulting services ensure students are prepared across all areas, not just academically.

We recommend beginning as early as 9th Grade (Year 10). Building a strong academic record, meaningful extracurriculars, and leadership experience takes time. Early planning also allows students to prepare for standardised tests like the SAT or ACT without overwhelming pressure.

Our US university consultants guide students through the entire US application process. This includes creating a personalised application timeline, advising on extracurricular development, test preparation planning, college research, essay writing support, and application platform navigation such as the Common App and Coalition Application.

Yes. Our consultants have strong links with leading US universities, including Ivy League schools such as Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. We provide strategic guidance on building a standout profile and support students in creating competitive applications for these prestigious institutions.

Extracurricular activities are critical. Top US universities seek students who demonstrate leadership, commitment, and excellence outside of academics. Our consultants help students identify, develop, and showcase extracurricular activities that strengthen their applications significantly.

Yes. Ivy Education offers dedicated SAT and ACT tuition to help students prepare effectively for these crucial standardised tests. We create a preparation timeline tailored to each student and can recommend the right support based on their goals. Learn more about our SAT and ACT tuition here.

Our consultants provide detailed feedback and editing support for personal statements and supplemental essays. We help students craft compelling narratives that highlight their individuality, experiences, and suitability for their chosen universities.

Get in touch with us today to arrange a free introductory consultation. Our university application consultants will be happy to discuss how we can support your child’s US university admissions journey.

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