Here we give the most asked questions and short clear answers!
We hope this FAQ helps you understand the application process. It will point you to Kastu pages with more information.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I submit my application if I am still in high school?
Yes, you can. If you are currently in your final year of high school and do not yet have your diploma, you can still submit your application. You will need to attach a copy of your diploma to the application as soon as you receive it.
2. What final exams do I need to take in order to study abroad?
The final exams you take usually do not have a major impact when applying to universities abroad. Admission decisions are influenced more by your overall grade average than by the specific exams you take. However, even grades are not the most important factor in the final decision (Curious what the most important criteria are? Read the next question).
3. What is the most important thing when applying to universities abroad?
The most important thing is to correctly complete the application form and meet the minimum entry requirements for the study program!
Different universities – and even different programs within the same university – may have different requirements. Make sure to carefully review the admission requirements for your chosen study program. You can find this information under the "Admission requirements" section for each program.
In addition, when applying to universities abroad, it is very important to have a good command of English. You can check what type of English proficiency proof each university requires here.
4. What documents need to be attached to the application form?
The smart Kastu application form automatically shows you which documents you need to fill in and/or upload, depending on the country, university, and study program you are applying to.
You can find out which documents may be required for different levels of study in the section "Required documents".
5. How many programs/countries can I choose in one application?
With one Kastu application, you can apply to all of the countries we represent. You can choose programs from a single university or from several different ones.
6. How should I write a motivation letter?
A motivation letter is the university’s very first introduction to you. By reading it, they learn a lot: your level of English, your motivation to study, your interest in the chosen field and program, your personal qualities, talents, strengths, and future ambitions. Universities abroad see students as individuals and welcome them as full members of their community, so they are especially interested in what you can contribute – what qualities and talents you will bring to enrich their community. The first impression is extremely important, so dedicate plenty of time and effort to your motivation letter, and you will surely achieve the results you want. It is the most representative document out of all those you submit to universities. Most importantly – do not copy. Many universities use systems to check whether motivation letters have been plagiarized.
Important! Not all universities require a motivation letter. You can check whether your chosen university does in the “Motivation Letter” section.
7. What should a recommendation letter look like?
There are no strict rules for how a recommendation letter should look, as each one is written differently. A letter from a teacher who teaches a subject related to your chosen study program would be a plus. The most important thing is that the recommender can describe your academic qualities – what you are like as a student, what your strengths are, and where your talents lie. The main requirement is that the letter must be written in English. However, if the teacher writes it in your native language, you (possibly with the help of an English teacher) should translate it into English.
Important! Not all universities require a recommendation letter. You can check whether it is needed for your chosen university under the section “Reference letter”
8. Can I take the English language test after submitting my application?
Yes. Ideally, you should complete your English language test by mid-summer.
IMPORTANT: some universities require test results earlier – they set a specific deadline by which you must submit your English test results. Therefore, make sure to carefully check the description of your chosen university (under "Admission requirements") to see if there are any special requirements regarding the submission of test results.
9. Will I be obliged to go abroad to study if I get accepted?
There is absolutely no obligation to go abroad to study. You can apply both to universities abroad and in your home country. Once you know where you’ve been accepted, you can then decide which option suits you best.
10. What should I do if I don’t get accepted?
In your application, you can select more than one priority and apply to more than one country. So, if you receive a negative answer from one university, there’s no need to worry – your second choice will automatically be considered. Not being accepted into your first choice does not mean you’ll be rejected everywhere – there will always be a program where you are exactly the candidate they are looking for.
If you are not admitted to your desired study program, get in touch with us. We will help you find the best alternative.
11. I’ve been waiting a long time for a reply from the university — does that mean I wasn’t accepted?
If the university hasn’t given you an answer yet, it simply means your application is still being considered – universities receive a huge number of applications every year, so the review process can sometimes take longer than expected. Not hearing back doesn’t mean you weren’t accepted, as universities always provide an official response. Even if you’re not admitted, you’ll still receive a notification.
