College Application Guide

Step 1: Complete & Submit Your Application

- ApplyTexas – for Texas schools → applytexas.org
- Common App – for out-of-state schools → commonapp.org
- School-specific portals – some schools only accept their own applications (ex. Oklahoma State, Arkansas).
Proofread carefully—once submitted, you cannot edit.
Submit at least 1 month before the deadline to allow time for transcripts, test scores, and recommendations.

Step 2: Request Your Transcript (via SchoolLinks in SSO):

- List all schools under Colleges → College Applications → Add Application.
- Application must be marked Complete in SchoolLinks before RHS can send your transcript.
- Unofficial transcript: Available in SchoolLinks → “School” tab → “Records Requests.”

Step 3: Send Official Test Scores

- Order scores directly from:
  1. ACT → act.org
  2. SAT → collegeboard.org
  3. TSIA 2 (Texas schools only) → accuplacer.org
- Scores take 2–4 weeks to arrive—plan ahead.
- Schools accept either SAT, ACT, or TSIA 2; many are test-optional—check each school’s website.
- You can take tests multiple times and choose which scores to send.

Step 4: Letters of Recommendation (if required)

- Not all colleges require them—check each school’s application.
- If needed:
  1. Ask teachers in person or by email before listing them as recommenders.
  2. Most schools want 1–2 junior-year core subject teachers.
  3. Common App: Invite recommenders in both Common App and SchoolLinks.
- Counselor Letters:
  1. Provide your counselor a brag sheet/resume detailing clubs, awards, and community service over the past 4 years.
  2. Submit at least 10 school days before the deadline.
  3. Counselors prioritize letters by application deadline.

College Application Lingo:

- Early Decision: Binding, one school only
- Early Action: Non-binding, earlier notification
- Priority: Earlier consideration for admission/scholarships
- Regular Decision: Standard deadline
- Rolling: Applications reviewed as they are received

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