SAT University Application Process

Follow the application process to universities with SAT scores step by step. Required documents, dates and important tips. Perfect for Turkish students.

Annual Application Calendar

1

September-December (11th Grade)

Start SAT preparation and university research

2

January-March (12th Grade)

Take SAT exam and TOEFL/IELTS preparation

3

April-June

Document preparation and translations

4

July-October

Common App applications and document submission

5

November-December

Early application (Early Action/Early Decision) results

6

January-March

Regular application results and university selection

7

April-May

Visa application and preparation

8

June-August

Visa approval and travel preparations

Application Steps

01
1 year in advance

University and Program Selection

Research SAT-accepting universities and select programs that match your interests

  • Check university rankings and accreditations (QS, Times Higher Education)
  • Research SAT score requirements (generally 1200-1600 range)
  • Review program curricula and post-graduation job opportunities
  • Evaluate campus life, city and costs
  • Identify universities that accept students from Turkey
02
6-12 months in advance

SAT Preparation and Taking the Exam

Prepare for the SAT exam and achieve your target score

  • Join SAT preparation program or take private lessons
  • Take regular practice tests and focus on weak areas
  • Select SAT exam date from College Board (7 times per year)
  • Pay exam fee ($60, $85 with Essay)
  • Select test center (centers available in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir)
  • Receive your results 2-3 weeks after the exam
03
6 months in advance

English Language Proficiency Test

Take TOEFL or IELTS exam (most universities require)

  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80-100 points (varies by university)
  • IELTS: Minimum 6.5-7.0 band score
  • Plan exam dates and register
  • Attend language preparation courses
  • Send exam results to universities
04
3-6 months in advance

Document Preparation

Prepare all required documents and get translations

  • High school diploma and transcript (notarized English translation)
  • SAT score report (official submission from College Board)
  • TOEFL/IELTS score report
  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Personal Statement (motivation letter)
  • Recommendation letters (2-3 pieces, from teachers)
  • CV/Resume (in English)
  • Financial support document (bank statement)
05
During application period (October-January)

Online Application (Common App or University System)

Apply through Common Application or university's own system

  • Create Common Application (Common App) account
  • Fill in your profile information
  • Select university list (maximum 20 universities)
  • Pay application fee ($50-100, varies by university)
  • Upload all documents to the system
  • Officially send SAT and TOEFL/IELTS scores
  • Review and submit application form
06
March-April (acceptance results)

Acceptance Result and Visa Process

Receive acceptance letter and apply for student visa

  • Wait for acceptance letter
  • Select university and pay enrollment fee
  • Receive I-20 form (for F-1 visa)
  • Pay SEVIS fee ($350)
  • Schedule visa appointment at US Consulate
  • Prepare for visa interview and required documents
  • Purchase flight ticket after visa approval

Required Documents

High School Diploma*

Notarized English translation

Academic Transcript*

Document showing grades of all courses (English translation)

SAT Score Report*

Official score submission from College Board (target 1200-1600)

TOEFL/IELTS Score Report*

TOEFL 80+ or IELTS 6.5+ (varies by university)

Passport*

Valid for at least 6 months

Personal Statement*

Letter explaining why you chose this university and program (500-650 words)

CV/Resume*

Prepared in English

Recommendation Letters*

From teachers or counselors (2-3 pieces)

Financial Support Document*

Bank statement or sponsor letter (required for visa)

Portfolio

For art, design, architecture programs

Important Note:

All documents must be submitted with English translation. Official documents must be notarized. SAT and TOEFL/IELTS scores must be officially sent to universities.

Success Tips

Start Early

Start the application process at least 1 year in advance. Document preparation takes time.

Multiple Applications

Apply to multiple universities and programs. Keep your options open.

SAT and Language Preparation

Start SAT and TOEFL/IELTS preparation early. High scores increase your application chances.

Get Consultation

Get help from experienced consultants. The process can be complex.

Need Help with SAT Application Process?

Get personalized application support from our expert consultants for students applying with SAT scores