Navigating College Applications: A Guide for IB Diploma Students



Applying to UK Universities via UCAS

  • Registering with UCAS: Start by creating an account on the UCAS website (www.ucas.com) and complete your personal details and educational background.

  • Choosing Your Courses: Research universities and courses that align with your interests and academic goals. Use UCAS' course search tool to explore options and narrow down your choices.

  • Preparing Your Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that showcases your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and motivations for pursuing higher education. Tailor your statement to each course you're applying to. Write only one personel statement for the 5 universities you will apply to on UCAS. (Maximum of 5 submitions).

  • Submitting Academic Transcripts: Provide official transcripts of your academic record, including your IB Diploma grades and any predicted grades if applicable. Please note: Some UK universities may require additional standardized tests such as the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT), the BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT), or the University of Cambridge Pre-Interview Admissions Test (UCAT), so be sure to check the specific requirements of each institution you're applying to.

  • Requesting Letters of Recommendation:: Ask teachers or counselors for letters of recommendation that highlight your academic abilities and personal qualities. Provide them with information about your achievements and experiences within the IB Programme.


Applying to US Colleges via the Common Application

  • Creating a Common Application Account: Register on the Common Application website (www.commonapp.org) and complete your profile, including personal information and academic history.

  • Exploring Colleges: Browse colleges and universities on the Common App platform and add schools to your list of colleges you're interested in applying to.

  • Crafting Your Essays: Write insightful and authentic college essays that reflect your personality, values, and aspirations. Many colleges require supplemental essays in addition to the main Common App essay.

  • Submitting Academic Transcripts and Test Scores: Provide official transcripts of your high school academic record, including your IB Diploma grades and any standardized test scores (e.g., SAT or ACT) if required by the colleges you're applying to.

  • Securing Letters of Recommendation: Request letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors who can speak to your academic abilities and character. Provide them with specific examples of your achievements and experiences within the IB Programme.