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A Step by Step Guide to Applying
A Step by Step Guide to Applying
Please find a step by step guide to applying to college here, this article breaks down information you need to start your journey.
From applications, transcripts, recommendations, standardized tests, and finances.
Most colleges use Common App, however some do not and you must apply on their website or using their specific portal. It is important to look at each school's individual website to confirm their admissions requirements and ideal prospective students.
Big Future run by College Board can create a list for you out of 4,500 colleges, you can put in parameters or take their College Match Quiz. A great place to start!
Start the formal application process the summer before your senior year. You can also do a lot of prep work your junior year, such as taking the SAT, researching campuses and visiting them, asking for recommendation letters, and adding to your extracurriculars.
Use the BigFuture college application timeline to guide you through the process.
Crafting Your College List
Crafting Your College List
Academics/Programs Offered
What are my career goals and future job objectives?
What undergrad and graduate majors/minors are offered? Acceptance rates?
What is their graduation rate/percentage? Class sizes?
What do you want your college experience to look like?
Location? Small vs. large school? Athletics, D1, D2, D3, or club sports? Student Life? Housing? Food offered? Internship opportunities? Greek Life/Clubs?
What schools can I realistically afford or what loans could I end up with?
Consider scholarships and if you qualify for Financial Aid. Student loans?
Costs to consider: Meal plan & housing, supplies/books, transportation, social expenses, and more.
Research Your Colleges!
Research Your Colleges!
If you are unable to visit the school in-person, it is important to look over their website in-depth.
Some other options are virtual events the college may host, virtual open houses, student panels, etc.
Create a list of your needs and wants in a school.
Create a list of schools you would like to apply to.
Refine your list of schools based on your personal stats, such as GPA, grades, and class rank.
Set up any accounts you may need. (Common App, College Board, etc.)
Start applying to schools and gathering needed material.
Find out if your school requires standardized tests such as SAT, ACT, TOEFL., and/or their international requirements.
Likely Schools
Likely Schools
A college or university where your academic and other credentials exceed the school's range for the average first year student.
You are more than likely going to be accepted to this school and you match the admissions criteria. You are likely to receive a scholarship or financial aid, this school is more than affordable to you and your family.
Target/Match Schools
Target/Match Schools
A target school is one where your academic credentials fall well within the school's average range for recently accepted students.
While there are no guarantees, it is reasonable to assume you will be accepted to a majority of your target schools. For financing, you may have minimal student loans or be able to afford the tuition without scholarships or FA.
Reach Schools
Reach Schools
A dream school or reach school is one where your credentials fall on the low or lower end of students accepted in previous years. These schools may be a long shot, but could still be possible!
This could be a school where you do not consider cost and would not receive any support from the school, due to your credentials being on the lower end for them.
Other Important Info/FAQ
Other Important Info/FAQ
How many schools should I apply to? There is no specific number of schools you should apply to, the average and recommended range is 5-12 schools. Please keep in mind the cost of applying and what types of schools you are applying to. (Likely, Target, and Reach schools)
What if I am an international student? The steps and process may look a little different for you. Most colleges have a person on their admissions teams that will work directly with international students. Be sure to research how each college you plan to apply to handles international applicants. You may need to submit bank statements and other financial documents. They may ask for a copy of your passport when applying as well.
Remember to look into Visa processes, such as an I-20 or F-1 Visa to study and if they require additional testing, such as language testing.
What is early decision? This is a binding commitment to a school, meaning if you are accepted to this school, you MUST attend. You can only apply early decision to ONE school, so make sure this would be your top choice school.
What is early action? This is a non-binding application, you will receive an early response from the school. This option lets the schools know you are serious about attending since you are applying early. (Usually in November)
What is regular decision? This means you are not applying early and are applying during their normal admission deadline. (Usually January 1st)
What is rolling admissions? This means a college or university continuously reviews applications on an on-going basis.
TIP: Early action tends to be the best option, this shows colleges and universities an extra level of interest and you will receive a response from the school earlier. This option also offers flexibility in terms of not having to commit to only one school.
For more terms used during the College Process, this comprehensive lists breaks down and explains almost all terms.
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