GlobalStudyBoard
Tools
← All topics·Admissions track

Application Components Deep-Dive

US Application Components, In Depth

The pieces of a US application in depth — the activities list, additional-information section, portfolios, interviews and strong recommendations.

Last updated

An elegant still life of a classic desk globe beside a neat stack of blank-covered books and a brass compass in warm light.

Tests this hub covers

SAT

College Board · 8 weekend test dates a year (2026–27: Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Mar, May, Jun; same for U.S. and international)

ACT

ACT (ACT Education Corp.) · 7 test dates a year, in the U.S. and outside it (2026–27: Sep, Oct, Dec, Feb, Apr, Jun, Jul; most non-U.S. dates are two-day windows)

What this hub covers

  1. How to Write the Activities List on the Common AppWhat the Activities section actually is · How to order your ten entries · Writing a tight, impact-focused description
  2. The Additional Information Section: When and How to Use ItWhat the Additional Information section is for · What genuinely belongs here · What does not belong here
  3. Portfolios and Auditions for Arts and Design ApplicantsWho submits a portfolio or audition · How submissions reach the right reviewers · Preparing a strong portfolio
  4. How to Prepare for a US College Admissions InterviewWhat a college interview is — and is not · Common formats and how to prepare · Questions you are likely to hear
  5. How to Ask Teachers and Counselors for Strong RecommendationsChoosing the right recommenders · Timing: ask early · Equipping recommenders: the brag sheet

Guides for United States

5 of 5 guides in this hub are for the United States.

Exam prep
United States·7 min read

How to Write the Activities List on the Common App

How to order and write your ten Common App activity entries with tight, impact-focused descriptions inside the official character limits.

Read guide
Admissions
United States·6 min read

The Additional Information Section: When and How to Use It

How to decide what belongs in the Common App additional information field — context, gaps, and hardships — without padding or repeating your essay.

Read guide
United States·8 min read

Portfolios and Auditions for Arts and Design Applicants

How art, music, theater, dance, and architecture applicants prepare supplemental portfolios, audition recordings, and SlideRoom submissions for US colleges.

Read guide
United States·7 min read

How to Prepare for a US College Admissions Interview

How to prepare for alumni and on-campus US college interviews — formats, common questions, what is evaluated, and follow-up etiquette.

Read guide
United States·7 min read

How to Ask Teachers and Counselors for Strong Recommendations

The applicant-side process of choosing, asking, and equipping recommenders — timing, the brag sheet, and the FERPA waiver — for US college applications.

Read guide

Studying in the United States

Continue exploring the United States

Universities, entrance tests, costs and visa facts for the United States — all in one place, each linked to its official source.

UniversitiesExamsGuidesScholarships
Explore the United StatesAsk GSB about the United States

Not sure where to start?

Ask GSB for guidance tailored to your situation.

Ask GSB →