SARA CAVALIERI

G'day! My name is Sara, and I'm the founder of College Apps Abroad.

I'm an independent educational consultant based in San Diego, specializing in helping culturally curious students find and apply for the right universities and programs across the pond – bachelor’s, master’s and transfer applicants, too.

More than 10 years working in international university admissions

One of the main reasons students and families hire me is because of my unique and extensive experience ‘on the other side of the desk,’ as I previously worked in admissions for some of the top institutions around the world, including The University of Edinburgh, the University of New South Wales and The University of Western Australia.

Widespread network of colleagues within the higher education sector overseas

My admissions experience in both the UK and Australia has given me an expansive network of colleagues at universities abroad, as well as an unparalleled perspective about what highly selective universities are looking for in a student’s application.

Did you know? Whilst working for Edinburgh, I also assisted with the multiple mini interviews for North American students applying to the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies!

Track record of success

Nowadays as an advisor, I have personally helped close to 100 students gain acceptance to their dream schools abroad and begin their international academic journeys.

Just take a look at what other students and parents have said about their experience working with me.

Boutique support

Because I work with only 15 students per grade level, you can rest assured you'll be treated as a priority along the way.

Registered UCAS Centre

The UK is the top destination amongst the students I advise, and to facilitate this process, I'm pleased to be one of the few UCAS centres in the U.S., which means students working with me can apply to UK universities through my portal.

This allows me to be able to review, approve and track their applications and results, in addition to liaising with universities on their behalf in case any issues/queries come up. It really makes the process so much easier for everyone involved!

Background in journalism, history and education

I completed an undergraduate degree in journalism with a minor in history at Ohio University, a study abroad semester at the University of South Australia, a Master of Education at UNSW Sydney and a Certificate in Independent Educational Consulting at UC Irvine.

As you might expect, writing and editing are two of my favorite activities, and students that work with me benefit from a professional eye when it comes to the writing portion of their applications, such as the UK personal statement, which is becoming more and more important as competition for places continues to increase.

Personal experience as an international student

As someone who studied abroad more than once, I also help students prepare for what life as a student overseas really looks like. I spent more than a decade living, studying and working in countries like the UK, Ireland, Australia and Brazil.

Regular professional development, conferences and campus visits abroad

Let’s face it; not everyone has the time or money to visit all their universities of interest overseas or keep up to date on the latest admissions trends around the globe.

I truly believe that I am the eyes and ears for my students, and I therefore undertake multiple trips a year to visit international campuses, meet with university reps and attend relevant workshops and trainings in order to best serve my students.

Outside of working with students, I am also a mom to Marco and two golden retrievers (Baker and Brady), a published author and superfan of the Chelsea Football Club, FC Cincinnati, Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Browns.