University preparation in New York 2024

University Preparation Courses in New York: Your way to Top Universities

University preparation courses in New York offer an invaluable opportunity for international students who may lack the necessary qualifications to gain direct entry into prestigious New York universities. One such preparatory program is the Foundation Year program, a classic example of an undergraduate preparation course. These programs allow students to enhance their knowledge in required subjects, improve their language proficiency, and acclimate to campus life and the American academic environment. Upon successful completion, students can seamlessly transition into the first year of a bachelor's degree program at universities in New York.

Some universities in New York also offer short-term summer preparation courses for undergraduate applicants from abroad. These courses serve to elevate students' academic and language skills, familiarize them with the educational process, and prepare them for exams and more.

The Foundation Program in New York

The Foundation Program is specifically designed for international students, aiming to equip them for admission to U.S. universities. It bridges the gap between a foreign student's previous educational system and the U.S. educational system.

Students can also complete the final year of high school at an American educational institution under the High School USA program, which is equivalent to completing the Foundation program. Upon completion, students receive a High School USA diploma, accepted by all U.S. higher education institutions.

Structure of the Foundation Program at New York Universities:

• English classes to enhance overall language proficiency.

• "Academic Language for Academic Purposes" classes.

• Preparation for international exams (TOEFL).

A significant portion of the Foundation University preparation programs is dedicated to improving English language skills. Students are expected to have a certain level of English proficiency upon program entry, typically around 450 on the TOEFL or equivalent to IELTS 4.5.

Language preparation for studying at the best universities in New York occurs in two facets. First, instructors help students overcome language barriers, expand their vocabulary, and facilitate effective communication. Second, the Foundation program includes "English for Academic Purposes," which hones grammar and writing skills, introduces academic terminology essential for U.S. university education, and teaches academic skills like attending lectures, note-taking, content analysis, questioning, essay and report writing.

Furthermore, preparation for IELTS or TOEFL certificates is often offered as a standalone discipline. Effective test-taking requires familiarity with the test format, allocation of time for each task, and proper answer formatting. Foundation program students have the opportunity to practice with sample tests, identify weaknesses, and rectify them, ultimately securing higher test scores.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What advice do you have for applicants who plan to enter US universities? Let's say they have 3-4 years to prepare.

Learn, learn and learn again! Almost the most important is good grades (usually from the last 3 years in secondary school). Of course, high school must be completed. Even at school, I advise you to determine which subjects and directions interest you more than others, in which you are especially good and talented. This will answer the question of which career is right for you.

Do not forget about extracurricular activities, just do not overwork yourself, do not load too much on your shoulders, otherwise you will get tired beyond measure.

Of course, work on your English: it should be as fluent as possible.

Remember that the education system in the United States is very flexible: in many colleges and institutes, you can choose a specialization not immediately, but by the end of the second year.

These preparatory programs cater to international students seeking to both prepare for university and save time and money. The International Year One program is particularly popular. During this program, students simultaneously study first-year bachelor's degree subjects while receiving academic and language preparation. Program durations range from 2-4 semesters, depending on the initial English proficiency level, and SAT and ACT exams are not required for admission.

Upon successful completion of the preparatory program, students can directly enter the second year of a bachelor's degree program at an American university, utilizing the credits earned. Some New York universities also offer the International Year One program online, enabling students to save on living expenses during their study period.

It's essential to note that preparatory programs with credits are intensive, combining credit courses with preparatory classes, requiring students to manage a heavy academic load.

Master's Preparation Courses

Graduate Pathway programs in the U.S. are akin to their undergraduate counterparts. International students who hold a bachelor's degree from the U.S. or another country can enroll in Pre-Master programs. These preparatory programs serve two primary purposes: meeting university entrance requirements (academic and language) and preparing students for the distinctive demands of master's-level education. Upon completion, students can directly transition into a master's program.

Highly specialized preparatory programs for master's degrees, such as Pre-MBA programs, are also available. These programs are tailored for students with no prior background in business and management, providing the foundation necessary for success in MBA programs.