International Studies

International Students

International students must go through the same college application process for applying to American colleges or universities. However, since they come from various educational backgrounds, they will need expert advice on their credentials and assistance with acclimating to American educational system. College Gates Advising provides expert advice on all aspects of International Students’ application needs.

Assessing Foreign Credentials and Student Academic Profile

With an understanding of student’s credentials and assessment of his/her overall academic profile, a list of right-fit colleges are compiled, students are guided through the application process and advised on First-Year transitioning. In addition, students are also consulted on ESL programs for English language improvement and other enrichment resources.

Applying to Non-American Universities

The trend of American students seeking education outside of the US is also growing. Finding the right place and keeping up with application process and time management can be a challenge. Through College Gates Advising students can have expert advice for such choices.

Services and Packages

Thank you, Ani for helping me stay on top of my applications! Thanks also for all the tips for transitioning to college. I missed working with you!”
~ Student, BU Class of 2023, Lexington, MA
During a very challenging academic year for high school seniors, Ani kept my son motivated in college search and application process. She was well-aware of all the challenges that the students were facing in building a college list. She patiently helped my son engage in virtual visits while also helping him find appropriate virtual extracurricular activities. He had five admissions to top colleges and chose to enroll at UMass Amherst.”
~ Parent, HS Class of 2021, Lexington, MA
Ani Helped my daughter with college planning that included high school academics and extracurricular activities. She was encouraging and very thorough in answering our questions. My daughter was admitted to all her top choice colleges including one with a full scholarship. We are thrilled and grateful.”
~ Parent, HS Class of 2021, Worcester, MA
We had a great experience working with Ani. She was always patiently available to answer all our questions. She guided us through the college search and application process. My daughter was able to develop a well-researched college list and was admitted to her first-choice college. We learned to look for a college that is the best fit. It makes more sense.”
~ Parent, HS Class of 2021, Lexington, MA
I consulted Ani on several occasions regarding post-graduation gap year options for my son, who had just graduated with a BS in Chemical Biology from UC Berkeley and wanted to take a year off before applying to medical school. Her advice was well-thought out, succinct and invaluable as she offered multiple options moving forward. Ani's experienced approach in empowering my son made him feel like he was in charge of the entire decision making process.”
~ Parent, Philip A.
Overall, I had a great experience and seamless interaction with Ani. I got her advice, as well as clarifications regarding the interpretation of foreign credentials for 2 international students who applied to Tufts last year. Ani’s expertise allowed me and my department to better understand the students’ previous knowledge and background in related coursework.”
~ Visiting Professor, Ara P.
I won't surprise you by saying that college selection process is not a simple one. More over, it is complicated, broad, and for the most part, the process can be quite overwhelming.
If you are looking for a college coach to guide your child with insightful and pragmatic yet caring approach, I highly recommend Ani Arakelian-Sahakian. Ani's insightful knowledge and expertise helped the process to feel somewhat simple for us, and get into the college of top choice for our child. I highly recommend Ani to parents and their college-bound children!"
~ Parent, Hasmik K.