Decide where you are applying.

Consider things like location, major, cost, and admissions requirements. It is also best practice to apply to at least 3 schools: your dream, your target, and your safety net.

Pro tip: Check out your Georgia MATCH and look for places that offer your intended major.

Determine how to apply.

Do they use Common App, or do they have their own separate application instead?

See their website for more information on the application process, including deadlines and application windows.

Determine your application window.

Do you want to start classes in the fall like usual, or would you rather start early with the summer semester or late with the spring semester?

If you are attending a bigger school, do you want to apply for Early Action or wait for Regular Decision? (See below for more info.)

Complete everything by the deadline.

College applications have deadlines, and it is very important that you don't miss them.

Please note that there may be separate deadlines for your supplemental materials, such as SAT/ACT score reports, letter of recommendations, etc. So be sure you understand what is due at which time.

Send SAT/ACT scores and AP scores. 

Make sure to send your official score reports through your CollegeBoard and/or ACT account before the materials deadline.

Pro tip: Many colleges SuperScore, so taking the SAT/ACT more than once can sometimes help boost your overall results. A higher score can also sometimes lead to scholarship opportunities through your college.

Ask for recommendation letters.

Recommendation letters may not be required, but they are always helpful!

Pro tip: Provide your teacher or counselor with an info sheet to help them out. Also, make sure you give them at least two weeks before your materials deadline.

Submit your official transcripts.

There are several different ways to submit your transcript.

1. You can submit directly through GAfutures.

2. You can request it be sent directly from NMHS.

3. You can request it be sent through Parchment.

See our Transcript page for more information. 

Please note that if you participated in the Dual Enrollment program, you must also send your college transcripts. Visit your DE college's website to learn how.

Track your admissions status.

Check your email frequently and use the link provided by the college to monitor your application's progress.

It is very important that you are able to correct any issues that may come up during this time.

Understand that it can take a while to receive an answer, so be patient. You should know something in the spring.

For more information on the possible decisions you could receive, please see the graphic below.

Complete your FAFSA and send it to your college.

The FAFSA opens on October 1st each year, and needs to be completed at some point during your senior year.

Make sure you designate which colleges to send your FAFSA to while filling out the application.

Once submitted, be sure to check your portal often. There may be updates or outstanding items  listed there, so be sure to keep an eye on it so you can correct any possible issues that come up quickly.

See our FAFSA page for more information.

Appy to scholarships.

Take advantage of any scholarship opportunities that are out there. Remember, scholarships are just a numbers game; the more you apply for, the higher your odds are of winning!

See our Scholarships page for more info.

Congrats, you've been accepted!
Now what?

Once you are accepted, you will need to accept their admissions offer. This often requires you to put down a deposit to hold your seat.

Once you've done this, you need to begin communication with your freshman advisor and the financial aide team. They will get you set up with things like orientation, scheduling, and ensuring that your financial aide is being taken care of.