How to Ace the ‘Why College’ Supplemental Essay?

Young woman brainstorming ideas for her college application essay outdoors - The Red Pen

In addition to the Common Application essay, several universities in the US require college-specific essays, commonly referred to as supplemental essays. While prompts may vary, the most common supplemental essay topic is a version of why you want to study at a particular college and are known as the ‘Why College’ essay. Below, we help […]

How to Ace Third-Party Interviews for US College Admissions

Key strategies to succeed in third-party interviews for US college admissions - The Red Pen

The US remains a popular destination for international students. An Open Doors Report revealed that the US had 948,519 international students in 2022, reflecting a four percent increase compared to the preceding academic year. HolonIQ forecasts that the US will see 1.2m+ international students by 2023. Amid this influx, US universities face a new challenge […]

US Undergraduate Application Deadlines: All You Need to Know

Important dates for US undergraduate applications and tips to stay ahead - The Red Pen

When it comes to the final submission of your applications to US colleges, January 1 is the first thing that comes to mind. Most students rush to complete applications in the last week of the year because several deadlines fall on this day. After that, they wait for April 1, when colleges declare their results. […]

How to Fill out the Common App Form: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Step-by-step instructions for filling out the Common App form successfully - The Red Pen

If you have your heart set on pursuing your undergraduate studies in the US, it’s worth your time to understand the Common Application (Common App) form. Easing the tedious process of filling out multiple forms for different colleges, Common App is a single online college application form that more than 900 colleges evaluate.  The first […]

Singapore Undergraduate Studies: Everything You Need to Know

Singapore undergraduate studies guide and admission process - The Red Pen

Singapore provides an exceptional environment for undergraduate students seeking unparalleled opportunities to acquire knowledge and cultivate critical thinking skills. It is home to around 55,000 international students, of which 43 percent are pursuing undergraduate courses. Some of its most sought-after degrees include cybersecurity, media and animation, hospitality and tourism, business analytics and digital economy, logistics […]

Demonstrated Interest: Why it’s Important for Undergraduate Admissions

Young woman in a cozy sweater with a backpack, showing enthusiasm for college applications and demonstrated interest - The Red Pen

Many US colleges for international students have become highly selective. Harvard University’s acceptance rate fell from 10.5 percent to 3.19 percent within a decade. Besides the best and brightest, universities are looking for sincerity. Students must demonstrate interest to express their desire to join the college.  What is demonstrated interest?  Unlike your grades, test scores, […]

5 Mistakes You Need to Avoid in Postgraduate Applications

Hand preventing dominoes from falling, representing common mistakes to avoid in postgraduate applications – The Red Pen

Mastering the art of a successful postgraduate application is a meticulous process that demands four to five months of diligent planning. Even the most organised individuals often commit a few common mistakes that can hinder their chances of success. In this post, we will explore five prevalent mistakes made during postgraduate applications and provide valuable […]

US Undergraduate Standardised Testing: All You Need to Know

Young student studying on a laptop surrounded by school supplies, symbolizing preparation for US standardized testing – US Undergraduate Standardised Testing: All You Need to Know | The Red Pen

Although several US colleges have introduced test-optional and test-blind admissions policies, standardised testing is still significant for undergraduate applications to US universities. It may be in your best interest to take these tests. Even though the test may not be compulsory, a good score may tip the scales in your favour and increase your chances […]

UC Application Made Easy: A Guide for International Students

Simplified UC Application Process for International Students - The Red Pen

Considered one of the best public university systems in the US, the University of California (UC) has nine undergraduate campuses – UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Santa Barbara, UC San Diego, UC Irvine, UC Davis, UC Santa Cruz, UC Riverside, and UC Merced. You must apply through the UC application form to pursue your undergraduate degree […]

Social Service for Postgraduate Admissions: How to Leverage it?

College students engaged in social service

Social service is vital in graduate school admissions and relevant across various streams, including science and finance. But as experienced postgraduate admissions counsellors, we’ve noticed a trend emerge in recent years. Often social science applicants organically showcase community service on their resumes. But our engineers, artists, financiers, and natural scientists focus more on talent development […]