So, you’re thinking about going south for your college years? Exciting! It’s a big decision, and even though Canada and the U.S. are close, the college application process can feel like a whole different game (you may even swap your hockey puck for a baseball!). The good news is, American universities give you a chance to show off more than just your grades, and College Essay Advisors is here to help you make sure your application represents who you really are and why you’d be a great addition to their campus.
Back in Canada, things are pretty focused: you aim for good grades, engage in extracurriculars, possibly write an essay or two, and apply. Down south, colleges want the whole story. They’re looking at stories from your life in your essays, how you spend your free time, whether you volunteer, and are basically trying to get a sense of you as a person, not just a statistic or academic ranking. That’s where a thoughtful and unique college essay comes in. It’s your chance to make a real impression among similarly qualified applicants. Think of it as your spotlight moment, showing them who you are beyond the report card.
One thing a lot of Canadian students find surprising is the essay style in the U.S. Admissions wants you to be personal, tell stories, and really open up about your personal growth and experiences in your personal statement. It’s less like writing a research paper and more like having a candid conversation in your own voice. Also, while Canadians are familiar with extracurriculars, American colleges often put even more emphasis on them. So, if you haven’t been super involved outside of class, you’ll need to get creative and think outside of the box about what has shaped you as a person.
But don’t worry; with a compelling essay, you can highlight the experiences you have had in a way that truly resonates. And remember, College Essay Advisors helps 95% of our international students get into at least one of their top three schools, we know what it takes to craft essays that get noticed!
To ace the U.S. college application, getting organized early is key. Here’s a rough plan to follow:
Alright, so what’s the deal with all these tests? Here’s what Canadian students need to know:
We told you we’d revisit the increasingly important application essays! The Common App personal statement is your opportunity to let your personality shine. It’s not about listing accomplishments; instead, it’s about telling a story of how you’ve become the person you are today. We have a ton of resources to help applicants write their Common App essay, as well as expert Advisors who walk students from all over the world through the process one-on-one.
These college-specific essays require you to do your research and understand what each particular school offers. Let’s say you’re applying to the University of Michigan; talk about why their engineering program gets you excited and how you look forward to cheering as a Wolverine in the football stands.
At College Essay Advisors, we understand the differences between the Canadian and U.S. education systems. Our expert advisors are here to help you:
Applying to U.S. colleges as a Canadian student requires careful planning and a strategy that showcases the qualities admissions is looking for in a future student—determination, compassion, academic rigor, community-building skills, and self-awareness, to name a few. By understanding the differences, preparing for the challenges, and letting your authentic self shine through, you’ll create an application that merits attention and might just be a breath of fresh air for admissions in a growing pile of applications. College Essay Advisors is committed to being your guide in this process, helping you craft essays that reflect your unique background and resonate with U.S. readers. Whether you’re aiming for a top-tier university or small liberal arts school, we’ve got your back.
By embracing these tips and partnering with College Essay Advisors, you can assemble an application that showcases your unique perspective as a Canadian student in the U.S. college admissions landscape. Best of luck—you’ve got this!
"I wanted to pass along to Stacey that this program is fantastic. It helped my daughter a ton getting into NYU."
– CEA Parent, NYU, Class of 2025
"I cannot thank College Essay Advisors enough for all the guidance and great tips on essay writing. I feel I've learned more about improving my writing style through you than I do at school! The one-on-one tutoring is definitely more effective for me, and I believe it played a big role in my gaining acceptance to Columbia."
– CEA Student, Columbia, Class of 2024
