College application

Although specific details vary by country and institution, applications generally require basic background information of the applicant, such as family background, and academic or qualifying exam details such as grade point average in secondary school and standardized testing scores.

Almost all British universities are members of UCAS, a clearing house for undergraduate admissions.

Some colleges also require applications to include a Letter of Recommendation and a personal essay.

[2] Many college-bound students receive application assistance and advice from their high school guidance counselors.

Critics warn that these types of applications are misleading, because they give the impression that the student is pre-approved to be admitted and may not explore other colleges because this easy option is provided to them.