College Application Resources
Begin creating accounts and filling in your personal information on college application portals the summer before your senior year. Common Application opens August 1st.
Start collecting and requesting official documents and recommendation letters at least three to four weeks before the deadline.
Create accounts on college application portals
After creating a prospective college list, create accounts on their respective application portals in the summer before your senior year.
Fill out your personal information, extracurriculars, and awards
It’s a good idea to start a list of your extracurriculars, awards, jobs, and leadership experience in your sophomore year.
MAJOR TIP: Throughout your high school career, keep adding to your list, which can also be used to build your resume if needed.
Upload your essays
If you paste your essay directly into the text box, remember it won’t retain formatting like italics or bold text. Sometimes, dashes or other characters might alter the word count, so check that you’ve respected the word limit after inputting your essays.
If you have to upload a file, make it a PDF. Use a simple standard font, like Times New Roman, and format spacing to 1.5 or double space.
Send your high school transcripts and test scores
As soon as you complete your part of the application, ensure your school counselor sends your transcripts to the right colleges.
Make sure your SAT, ACT, and AP scores have been sent to the correct schools. Some schools allow results to be self-reported, while others require official score reports from testing organizations.
Request letters of recommendation
Many colleges require one to two letters of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, coach, or employer who knows you well. As early as the end of your junior year, you should unofficially notify teachers or counselors of upcoming requests to give them sufficient time to write a thoughtful personalized letter during the summer.
Write your resume
Some schools require you to write a resume. While you may not have much or any work experience, you can highlight your educational career. Include your academic achievements, awards, projects, and leadership positions. You can also include any work experience, internships, or summer programs.
Review your application
Before submitting, double-check that all necessary materials are included.