As a former admissions counsellor who reviewed applications at the university level and as a university and careers counsellor guiding students internationally, I’ve seen firsthand what makes an applicant stand out.
In today’s admissions landscape, students need to find ways to distinguish themselves outside of GPA and standardised test scores.
One way to do this is by participating in international exams and competitions. These opportunities will not only allow you to showcase your academic abilities, but will demonstrate initiative, and allow you to stand out in a crowded applicant pool.
Why participate in international competitions?
International competitions are a great way to test your skills in subjects you’re passionate about, whether it’s maths, science, or the liberal arts.
By participating in these events, you not only demonstrate your academic excellence but also show that you’re a student who takes initiative, is committed to mastering a subject, and is willing to go the extra mile to pursue your interests. This level of engagement is something colleges value when reviewing applicants based on students’ admission outcomes.
In today’s admissions landscape, where high SAT scores alone may no longer guarantee distinction, extracurricular initiatives that reflect leadership potential, global outlook and personal growth are more important than ever.
How these exams develop subject-specific mastery
Unlike general tests like the SAT or ACT, international competitions allow you to dive deep into a specific field aside from specific curriculum examinations such as IB/AP/ and A Levels. For example, if you’re passionate about chemistry, participating in the International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) helps you test your skills beyond what the traditional classroom offers.
Competitions like the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), Physics Bowl, even participating in competitions for PI Day and others allow you to sharpen discipline-specific skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, resilience, and time management, all highly valued by top universities.
Top international exams and competitions to consider
If you're looking to enhance your college application profile, consider participating or looking for prestigious competitions like these:
● International Physics Olympiad (IPhO)
● Physics Bowl
● International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO)
● US Biology Olympiad (USABO)/UK Biology Olympiad
● World Scholar’s Cup
● International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
● Model United Nations (MUN)
● Academic Decathlon
● International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO)
● Doodle for Google
● United Nations Competition
Real-world examples of students who have used these achievements
The impact of international competitions can be seen in the real-life success stories of students who I have worked with. Having worked in international schools with students from more than 77 nations, I’ve seen firsthand how these achievements open doors and successfully help gain results.
For instance, one student from Qatar participated in World Scholar’s Cup and Model United Nations (MUN) conferences and competitions. Through these experiences, combined with their strong academic record, the student strengthened applications to universities in the United Kingdom and United States. This contributed to their acceptance into the University of Oxford.
Another example is a student from Europe who participated in the Physics Bowl, scoring the highest in the country. Their outstanding performance helped them gain offers from competitive universities in the United Kingdom, demonstrating how excellence in subject-specific competitions can elevate an application.
Additionally, I worked with a student who pursued both the Biology Olympiad and the Chemistry Olympiad, while also participating internationally in Model United Nations (MUN) competitions. Their impressive competition record, combined with high SAT scores and a strong academic transcript, led to their acceptance at the University of Pennsylvania, one of the top Ivy League universities.
Tips to help you get started
1. Identify your passion and focus on subjects you are genuinely interested in
2. Before signing up for a competition, begin preparing well in advance with independent study and research to build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills.
3. Develop core skills
4. Reach out to teachers, tutors, counsellors, or even your principal, who can help guide your preparation strategy and help you register for these exams. Some schools may even pay for the exam on your behalf since it can help spotlight your school simultaneously.
5. Make sure to feature these experiences prominently in your college applications, essays and interviews, as well as having your school showcase it in their social media pages or website.
International exams and competitions are much more than tests of knowledge on a subject. They are opportunities for personal, mental, and academic growth, and they serve as indicators of a student’s initiative, resilience and global mindset.
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