College Admissions Steps

College Application Tracker (make a copy)

College Comparison Sheet (make a copy)

Step 1: Application Form

• Visit the college websites to access their application/application options.

Step 2: Pay the Fee

Step 3: Request Transcript

• Click for detailed parchment instructions 

• Sign in at parchment.com.

• Complete FERPA Privacy Rights 

• Click “Order” to place a transcript request.

• If you are applying to Texas A&M, you will self-report the grades from your transcript. They do not require the transcript document. Enter an order for “Unofficial Self-view”.

• If you are applying to schools through Common App, you only have to request your transcript be sent to Common App, not to each individual school. Instructions for requesting a transcript from CommonApp. 

• Select your destination, click “Save and Continue” to finalize your order.

Step 4: Request Test Scores

• You must request ACT or SAT scores to be sent directly from the testing agency. If you did not send test scores to a college when you registered for the ACT or SAT, then go to act.org or collegeboard.org to request scores. Fees may apply. If you forgot your account information, contact ACT or Collegeboard (SAT).

Step 5: Scholarships and Financial Aid

• 3 types of scholarships (College/University; Business/National/Regional; Local/FEF)

• Check the scholarship tile in your FISD student portal.

• Check the Scholarships/Financial Aid page on your college’s website.

• GoingMerry - bundles scholarship

• Federal Student Aid – Complete the FAFSA https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa / Opens October 1.

STOP HERE UNLESS YOU ARE APPLYING TO A SCHOOL THAT REQUIRES:

Step 6: Secondary School Report/Counselor Evaluation 

• If applying through Common App, enter your counselor’s contact information on your Common App.

• If your college requires a counselor recommendation, you must complete the following student GoogleForm:

Panther Creek Recommendation Letter of Recommendation Form

• Have a parent complete the following Parent Questionnaire:

(Insert PC Parent Questionnaire)

• Provide your counselor with a minimum 10 school day notice.

Step 7: Teacher Evaluation Forms/Teacher Recommendations

• If your college requires a letter of recommendation from a teacher, ask the teacher in person at least 10 school days before the deadline.

• If the teacher is not submitting the recommendation online, you need to provide them with an addressed and stamped envelope for each recommendation you are requesting. Teachers will be mailing these directly. Letters of recommendation are confidential!!

• Write a Thank You note to the teacher.