Starting to plan in 8th–9th grade gives international students in Taiwan a huge advantage if the goal is studying abroad, especially in the US. Early planning lets you build the right academic, language, and extracurricular profile step by step, rather than rushing in 11th–12th grade.
Contact Us: Pathway Global Consulting
8th–9th Grade: Laying the Foundation
Focus on strong grades in English, math, and science, since these form the core of US high school and university expectations.
Read and listen to English daily (books, podcasts, news) to build vocabulary and comprehension beyond test prep materials.
Try different activities (clubs, sports, music, volunteering) to see what you genuinely enjoy and might commit to long-term.
Contact Us: Pathway Global Consulting
9th–10th Grade: Building a Profile
Choose a challenging course load (AP, honors classes, or accredited college introductory courses where possible) and maintain consistent performance.
Join 1–3 activities you can stick with for years and aim for depth: leadership roles, competitions, organizing events, or meaningful community work.
Start light SAT/ACT-style practice or academic competitions to get comfortable with English-based problem-solving.
Contact Us: Pathway Global Consulting
10th Grade: Exploring Countries and Systems
Compare paths: US (holistic admissions), Canada/UK (more grade- and program-focused), and other destinations, and think about which suits your strengths.
Attend school fairs, online university info sessions, and talk to seniors who went abroad to understand requirements and timelines.
Begin a simple “university list” spreadsheet with possible majors, locations, and basic entry requirements.
Contact Us: Pathway Global Consulting
11th Grade: Testing and Strategy
Take official language tests (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test) and, if targeting more selective US schools, plan SAT/ACT attempts.
Strengthen a few key activities and consider summer programs, research projects, or internships that show initiative and curiosity.
Start brainstorming personal stories: challenges you faced, interests you developed, or impacts you made that could become essay material.
Contact Us: Pathway Global Consulting
12th Grade: Applications and Decisions
Finalize your university list by balancing reach, match, and safer options, considering both academics and finances.
Draft and revise application essays early, asking for feedback on clarity and authenticity rather than “perfect English.”
Track deadlines for applications, scholarships, financial aid, and visas, and keep all documents (transcripts, test scores, recommendation letters) well organized.
Contact Us: Pathway Global Consulting
Planning early does not mean locking in one path; it means giving yourself options. By starting in 8th–9th grade, international students in Taiwan can explore, experiment, and gradually build a profile that makes studying abroad in the US or elsewhere a realistic and exciting choice.
Contact Us: Pathway Global Consulting
Comments