International University Admissions Consulting
Personalized admissions guidance across six study destinations, from K–12 schools to graduate programs.
Latest Articles
News and insights on admissions and test prep
What Do US Colleges Really Look For in Admissions? A Factor-by-Factor Count of the 18 Admission Factors in the Common Data Set (C7) at 53 Universities: How Course Rigor, GPA, Essays, Test Scores, Interviews and Legacy Are Rated, and How Domestic and International Applicants (Including Students in China) Can Use It
In section C7 of the Common Data Set, each US university rates 18 admission factors as very important, important, considered or not considered. We checked the original C7 tables of 53 universities: 49 rate the rigor of the secondary school record as very important and 44 rate academic GPA as very important; 30 consider standardized test scores and 6 do not; 27 do not consider interviews and 22 do not consider alumni relations. This guide explains how to read and use C7.
How Do You Apply for a Taught Master's in the UK? Using the University of Manchester as an Example: How to Apply, When Applications Open, Referees and English Requirements, the Graduate Visa Falling to 18 Months from 2027, and Notes for Domestic and International Applicants
Most UK taught master's programs are applied for directly through the university. Using the University of Manchester as an example, this guide sets out how to apply, when 2027/28 applications open (10 October 2026), deadlines, referees, research proposals, English requirements and requirements for Chinese degrees, and explains the latest GOV.UK Graduate visa rules: 18 months for applications made on or after 1 January 2027.
GRE or GMAT for a Master's Degree? How the Two Tests Compare on Structure, Timing, Scores and Fees, Which Programs Require Them, and Notes for Domestic and International Applicants
Before choosing a test, check whether your master's programs require the GRE or GMAT: many graduate schools leave it to each program. Using ETS and GMAC sources, this guide compares the two tests: the GRE takes about 1 hour and 58 minutes across five sections and costs $237.86 in China; the GMAT takes 2 hours and 15 minutes with three sections and 64 questions, scored 205–805. It also covers score sending, score validity and what several universities require.
What Do You Need for a Master's Application? Statements, Research Proposals, References, CV, Transcripts and English Scores at Graduate Schools in the US, Canada and the UK, with Notes for Domestic and International Applicants
Master's applications ask for broadly similar materials: a personal or academic statement, references, a CV, transcripts and English scores, plus a research proposal for some programs. Using official information from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, UW-Madison, UBC, the University of Toronto and the University of Manchester, this guide covers what each item requires, English score minimums and application fees, with notes for domestic and international applicants, including students in China.
How Should You Plan Your Master's Applications? Deadlines, Grade Requirements and Tests for Master's Programs in the US, Canada and the UK, from Third Year to Enrolment, with Notes for Domestic and International Applicants
There is no single deadline for master's applications: graduate schools in the US and Canada state that deadlines are set by each program, and the University of Manchester opens 2027/28 master's applications on 10 October 2026, with many courses having no official closing date. Using official sources, this guide sets out a timeline from third year to enrolment, minimum grade requirements (including for degrees from China) and whether you need the GRE or GMAT.
How Do You Build a University List? The Rules for Five UCAS Choices, Multiple UC Campuses and Two UBC Choices, and How to Shortlist by Interest, Requirements, Selectivity and Cost, with Notes for Domestic and International Applicants
A longer university list is not always better; start with the hard rules of each application system. UCAS allows up to five choices, with a 2027 entry fee of £34.50; one University of California application covers more than one campus; UBC lets you choose a first and second degree. Using official sources, this guide sets out these rules and the reply deadlines after offers, then explains how to shortlist by interest, subject requirements, selectivity and cost.
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U.S. University Admissions
Study in the USA
Home to many of the world's leading universities, with diverse institutions and flexible application pathways.
UK University Admissions
Study in the UK
Home to internationally recognized universities, specialized degree programs, and many one-year master's options.
Canadian University Admissions
Study in Canada
A wide range of universities and programs, with opportunities for co-op education and practical experience.
Australian University Admissions
Study in Australia
Home to internationally recognized universities, flexible admission pathways, and a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
University Admissions in Singapore
Study in Singapore
A leading higher education hub in Asia, with internationally recognized universities and a multicultural learning environment.
Hong Kong University Admissions
Study in Hong Kong
Home to internationally ranked universities that combine Eastern and Western academic traditions.
Private School Admissions (K-12)
Applying to private schools in Canada and the U.S. for Grades 6–12: school selection, entrance tests, applications and interviews
What We Cover
Admissions support from K–12 through undergraduate and graduate studies
K-12 Admissions
International school admissions support for students aged 6–18
- International School Selection
- Entrance Exam Tutoring
- Interview Skills Training
- Visa and Guardianship Guidance
Undergraduate Admissions
Develop a competitive undergraduate application through personalized university selection and application planning.
- Customized College Selection Strategy
- Standardized Test Planning
- Personal Statement and Essay Review
- Extracurricular Planning and Profile Development
Master's Program Applications
Personalized master's and PhD program selection based on academic backgrounds and career goals.
- Program Research and Selection
- CV and Personal Statement Guidance
- Recommendation Letter Strategy
- Scholarship Applications
Admissions Services and Pricing
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FlagshipFull US Undergraduate Application Support
One-on-one guidance throughout the U.S. undergraduate application process, from choosing universities to preparing your visa application.
- Service period
- 12–18 months
- Schools applied to
- 3–5
- Format
- Dedicated one-on-one counselor
UK Master's Applications
Application support for G5 and Russell Group universities, including program selection and personal statement guidance.
- Schools applied to
- 5–8
- Service period
- 6–10 months
Individual Application Services
Flexible, service-based pricing
- Billing
- Per item
Why Forbest
Personalized guidance throughout the admissions process
Professional Team
Experienced admissions counselors with an average of over eight years of experience supporting international applications.
High admission rate
98% top university admission rate, with more than 1,000 students enrolled at their chosen universities
One-on-One Service
A dedicated counselor provides support throughout the application process, from initial planning to enrollment.
Contractual Service Protection
Service terms and refund conditions are outlined in the agreement.
Global Network
Partnerships with hundreds of institutions across six major study destinations.
Pre-Departure and Arrival Support
Visa guidance, pre-departure orientation, and assistance with airport pickup and accommodation.