When it comes to studying in the United States, there’s no shortage of myths – from what counts as the “perfect” application to whether scholarships are only for straight-A students. In this recurring feature, EducationUSA advisers break down some of the biggest misconceptions and share what truly matters for your U.S. higher education journey.
Myth:
The higher the ranking, the better the fit.
Truth:
Rankings can feel like the silver bullet for choosing a university – just pick the schools at the top of the list, right? Not quite. Rankings can be a good starting point, but they don’t tell you about everything that matters for your college experience. They can’t measure how well a program matches your goals, whether the teaching style suits how you learn, or if the campus culture makes you feel at home.
Sometimes, a university ranked lower overall might have one of the strongest programs in your field of interest. It might also offer the right mix of research opportunities, student support, and community that helps you thrive.
Here’s the crux: the “best” university on paper isn’t automatically the best university for you.
So, how do you find that sweet spot? That’s where EducationUSA advisers come in. They’ll help you cut through the noise of rankings and build a shortlist of universities that truly fit your needs… and the best part is, the advice is completely free.
Register for EducationUSA’s free advising service here.
