College Applications

Take Action: How to Apply

• Apply online through the college’s website or use platforms like the Common App or Coalition App, depending on what the school accepts.
  
  

• Be sure to complete all required sections, including personal information, academic history, and any essay components.
  
  

• Submit your application fee or apply for a fee waiver if eligible.

Pay Attention to Deadlines!

• Many colleges have Priority Deadlines for scholarships and financial aid—these are often earlier than the regular deadline.
  
  

• Missing these can mean missing out on important financial opportunities.

• Early Decision / Early Action
  Some colleges offer an early application option.
  
  

  • Early Decision (ED) is binding—if you're accepted, you must attend and withdraw all other applications.
    
    

  • Early Action (EA) is non-binding—you can apply early and still choose among multiple offers.
    Be sure to understand the commitment involved before applying under these plans.
    
    

  • Fixed Admissions
    Applications are accepted until a specific deadline. All decisions are typically released around the same time. It's important to meet that deadline—late applications may not be reviewed.
    
    

  • Rolling Admissions
    Applications are reviewed as they are received, and decisions are sent out continuously.
     

Apply early! Schools with rolling admissions may fill up before their final deadline, especially for competitive programs.

If your colleges require essays, they will usually provide specific prompts or questions for you to answer. This is your chance to showcase who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the writing process:

Follow the Prompt Carefully

• Make sure you address exactly what the question is asking. Don’t drift off-topic or try to reuse essays that don’t fit the prompt.
  
  

• Stay within the word limit. Admissions officers often won’t read beyond it.
  
  

Be Yourself

• Use your authentic voice—colleges want to hear your story, not what you think they want to hear.
  
  

• Avoid clichés and overused phrases; be specific, genuine, and reflective.
  
  

Start Early & Plan Your Approach

• Don’t wait until the last minute. Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, outline, draft, and revise.
  
  

• Try prewriting strategies like making a mind map or listing defining moments in your life.
  
  

Proofread Carefully

• Check for spelling and grammar mistakes—spell check helps, but don’t rely on it completely.
  
  

• Read it out loud to catch awkward phrasing or unclear ideas.
  
  

• Ask a teacher, counselor, or trusted adult to review your essay and offer constructive feedback.
  
  

Keep It Personal and Reflective

• Share a story or experience that shaped who you are or how you think.
  
  

• Reflect on what you learned and how it has influenced your goals, character, or worldview.