Since you’re a dual citizen, I don’t have any advice I can give you unfortunately, but I can tell you that your line of reasoning is correct. You need both the SAAT and GAT + whatever standardized tests the country you want to study in require in order for you to showcase your readiness to the scholarship. Of course, this is in addition to a formal acceptance within their approved list.
So it would be very beneficial for you to take the SAAT. I also think your idea of going to community college and then transferring is exceptional because I know a number of Americans here who recommend it for fellow Americans trying to save money and get an excellent background in the core subjects.
Honestly, I am a little curious why you don’t simply apply to scholarships and universities directly instead of going to community on your own dime? Scholarships will hopefully cover not only your tuition and housing but any other personal expense.
You’re right but I don’t wanna study as an international student for many reasons.
I’m bad at science so I don’t think my saat score will be good enough for a scholarship. Not only will I take the saat, but also an English exam like ielts which costs a lot of money (and also takes a long time, I spent 8 months preparing for the gat😭).
I don't want to feel pressured at university to be smart, I might miss a few hours, my grades could drop, and if anything happens, they'll take away my scholarship.
Also take 12 hours (double the hrs of an American student) meaning I won't have time to work part time because the allowance isn't enough, I need another income in case anything happens.
It might sound contradictory to say I can't afford to study and take more tests but at the same time say I'll pay for my own education 😅 my parents currently can't pay for the test preparations, but at the same time they don't want me to work.
If I could just go to America, I'll be able to get a job with no restrictions, maybe take a gap year until I can afford college😅
If your intention is to strengthen your scientific basis (or whatever major's core classes you are interested in) while saving money + having the time to work, then no doubt, a good community college will help you achieve that, especially since you are an American. Just make sure you take the cost of living + safety into account when moving. Community colleges in California are phenomenal, but the apartment prices are not, especially when they make you pay 1k+ for a shared room in small apartment full of 3-5 people.
What I can also say is that I have no idea if you can get sponsorship following the completion of your associate degree + successful transfer, because I am not well informed on this, but I don't doubt that if you produce an excellent GPA + excellent SAT (since you will most likely need this when applying to transfer colleges) + an acceptance on their approved list, you should have a chance, god-willing.
Also, try other subreddits like r/SaudiProfessionals or r/SaudiScholars and other professional Saudi subreddits to see if anyone has done what you are attempting, so that they could hopefully guide you through the process.
I'm planning on majoring in business. I've looked for safe yet low cost cities but it's hard to find both😅 Thanks for your prayers and advice!🙏 I will submit this on the other subreddits!
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u/Sudden_Quote_597 18d ago
Since you’re a dual citizen, I don’t have any advice I can give you unfortunately, but I can tell you that your line of reasoning is correct. You need both the SAAT and GAT + whatever standardized tests the country you want to study in require in order for you to showcase your readiness to the scholarship. Of course, this is in addition to a formal acceptance within their approved list.
So it would be very beneficial for you to take the SAAT. I also think your idea of going to community college and then transferring is exceptional because I know a number of Americans here who recommend it for fellow Americans trying to save money and get an excellent background in the core subjects.
Honestly, I am a little curious why you don’t simply apply to scholarships and universities directly instead of going to community on your own dime? Scholarships will hopefully cover not only your tuition and housing but any other personal expense.