Can I go to a college in the US?

International Students
1

Hello.

My name is Adriel, I’m from Sao Paulo, Brazil.

I graduated from HS back in 2008 and didn’t attend any college and didn’t get any other education since then, for financial and personal reasons. But now I finally got enough money to pursue my dream of studying in the US. I still have my original transcripts and proofs of graduation from high school. I don’t know how to convert the brazilian grading scale to GPA, my overall grade is 7,5 (my school used a 0-10 scale)… I’m taking the TOEFL exam on April, and based on preparatory tests my score going to be around 69-74. But I’m afraid because I’m too old, I’m 24 years old, turning 25 on August. and I don’t know if there is an age limit to go to college in the US. Can I still apply to a college in America at my age?

Thanks a lot!

2

No, there is generally no limit, especially in the larger public universities that have a wide range of students. (A small liberal arts college might be hesitant to admit an older student, thinking it might be a strange fit.)

Don’t worry about converting your high school grades, the schools you will be applying to will do that. Focus on taking the right tests (ACT/SAT unless you’re applying to test-optional schools.)

Also, your TOEFL score should be higher… check out the link below with required scores.)

http://www.americanexamservices.com/about-the-toefl/toefl-scores-usa-universities

And make sure you have enough money: in general, international students should count on paying $40,000-$60,000 per year, with costs going up every year.

3

Thanks for your reply.

I’m still researching about the SAT/ACT, there aren’t many places here in Brazil where I can take these tests. But sure I’ll take both when I can.
I’m still improving my English skills. I noticed on the link you sent most of colleges require scores of 80+, that means I need to practice more and then take another test to get a higher score.
Yeah I know, education in the US is very expensive. I’m using my personal funds, and I’m getting a student loan here in Brazil that will help me to pay for my education in the US, and then I pay after my graduation when I get back. Also there’s my family support.
Thanks again!

4

@AdrielMoraes Norrmal Americans do not spend 40 to 60 K a year on college. There are plenty of options that are less than 30K.