Gap Year Before University: Pros, Cons, and How to Decide

Gap year before university, weighed honestly: benefits for maturity and focus, real risks of losing momentum, and a practical framework for families making this decision.
University Scholarships for International Students

University scholarships for international students span merit awards, need-based grants, and fully funded programs. This guide covers where to search, how to qualify, and how strong preparation at an accredited school improves your chances.
College Recommendation Letters: A Student’s Guide

College recommendation letters can strengthen or stall an application. How to choose the right recommenders, what to share with them, and when to ask, explained for international school students.
College Application Essays: How to Stand Out

College application essays are your student’s best chance to speak in their own voice. Practical tips on structure, topic choice, and revision, built for families preparing for university abroad.
Extracurriculars That Strengthen College Applications

Extracurricular activities shape how admissions officers read your application. This guide covers which activities matter, how to build depth, and how to present them well.
UK University Applications from China: A UCAS Guide

How Chinese high school students apply to UK universities via UCAS, from entry requirements and qualifications to personal statements, deadlines, and student visas.
Applying to US Universities from China: A Parent Guide

How Chinese students navigate US university admissions: timelines, standardized tests, holistic review, and how an accredited international school builds the right foundation.
College Counseling in International Schools: A Parent Guide

How international school college counseling works, what to expect from Grade 9 onward, and how QISS supports students applying to universities worldwide.
AP Exams in China: Registration and Preparation

How AP exams work in mainland China, from authorized test centers and Prometric registration to study strategies and what QISS students do to score a 4 or higher.
SAT Test Centers in Qingdao: Where to Register and Sit

QISS in Qingdao is one of the few College Board-authorized SAT test centers in mainland China. Learn how to register, what to expect on test day, and how our students average 1300.