1. Complete the Common Application and every supplement for each school. (Note that some schools do not accept the Common Application, and you must complete their own distinct application.)

2. A financial certification, showing that you can afford to study in the US.

3. An official high school transcript.

4. Standardized test scores (SAT 1, SAT 2, ACT, etc.)

5. English language test scores (TOEFL or IELTS -- note that not all schools accept the IELTS).

6. 2-3 recommendation letters from professors or other adults.

7. Application fee.