You've decided which schools you want to apply to... now what? The college application process involves multiple steps, and it is important to stay ahead of deadlines so you can minimize stress and do your best work while still staying on top of your regular schoolwork. Remember, if you need more one-on-one assistance with any part of this process, email Jamie to set up a time to meet and get back on track.
Basic College Application Timeline
Fill Out the College List Google Sheet: Filling out this sheet should be your first step. Be sure to share it with Jamie and Dr. Fletcher.
Make a Deadlines Calendar: Create a list by date that shows every school's specific deadlines for application (Early Action, Early Decision, or Regular Decision), FAFSA preferred deadline for merit scholarships, when you should ask for letters of recommendation by (preferably 2-4 weeks before the application deadline), and anything else you want to remember. This will be something you print out and either keep in binder or stuck up somewhere that you can see it so you can stay on track.Â
Create Your Application Accounts: Set up profiles on platforms like the Common App, or specific state/university portals (like the University of California system) depending on where you are applying. Start by filling out the simple parts like your profile and the schools you are applying to.
Draft the Main Personal Statement: Brainstorm, write, and edit your central application essay. This is the core essay that will be sent to the majority of your colleges. Don't leave this step till the last minute. You can use this worksheet by College Essay Guy to get some ideas, or set up a time to meet with Jamie.
Request Letters of Recommendation: Add Dr. Fletcher as your counselor on Common App, and ask two core academic teachers or a coach to write letters for you if your schools require them. Provide them with a "brag sheet" outlining your achievements and goals to help them write details. REMEMBER TO ASK THIS IN PERSON. You can refer to this letters of rec document for general guidelines.
File for Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid) and, if required by any private universities, the CSS Profile to be considered for grants, loans, and work-study programs.
Tackle School-Specific Supplemental Essays: Look at the unique short-answer or essay prompts required by each individual college on your list (e.g., the classic "Why this college?" essay) and write tailored responses that show why you would be a good fit.
Input Extracurriculars and Course History: Fill out the data-entry portions of the application, including your high school course history, awards, and a summarized list of your clubs, sports, jobs, or volunteer work.
Submit Official Transcripts and Test Scores: Email Dr. Fletcher to request your official transcripts to be sent to your college list. If you are submitting standardized test scores, order official reports from the College Board (SAT) or ACT.
Conduct Final Reviews and Submit: Double-check every section of your applications for grammar and clarity, review the PDFs of your complete packets, pay the application fees (or apply for waivers), and hit submit.