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So You Decided That You Want to Apply to College?
So You Decided That You Want to Apply to College?
First and foremost, congratulations! Making the decision to apply to college is not a small one and we are incredibly proud of you!
This page is here to give you a general overview of college applications and hopefully help you get started on your application journey! If you have any additional questions or need help filling out a college application, please come see your college adviser!
Where Can I Apply to College?
Where Can I Apply to College?
Whether you have decided to submit one application or ten, it is important to know where you can go officially apply! Below are your options for submitting an application to a college in North Carolina! No worries, the college will receive your application regardless of what platform you choose to apply through!
CFNC
CFNC
The College Foundation of North Carolina, CFNC, is not only a great place to research college options but also a great application platform. Here you can apply to schools that are in the state of North Carolina, including community colleges.
The College's Website!
The College's Website!
When in doubt, you can always apply directly on the college's website. Typically the admissions page for a specific school will have a button for you to apply directly on their website. If not, they will direct you to another option like CFNC or the Common App!
Common App
Common App
The Common Application is another great platform to apply! This allows you to fill out one application for all the schools on your list! While not every school uses the Common App, it does include schools outside of NC, unlike CFNC. Hey... only having to write one essay is a plus!
When Should I Apply to College?
When Should I Apply to College?
While the majority of college applications open on August 1st, sometimes it can be difficult to know exactly which deadline to apply by. Below we have broken down the different types of deadlines, what they mean, and when you can expect these deadlines to be. Make sure to check the admissions website of college you are apply to for official application due dates!!!
Early Action
Applicants who apply by the early action deadline receive their admission decision sooner! With this option you are NOT legally bound to attend the school, but you get to find out sooner! This is a great option if you are applying to multiple schools and want to make your college choice earlier! This deadline is typically mid-October - early November!
Early Decision
Like early action, applicants who apply early decision get their admissions decision sooner. The only difference is that if the college offers you admission, you ARE legally bound to attend the school. This is a good option for students who are all-in on one school! This deadline is typically mid-October - early November!
Regular Decision
You are right on time! Students who apply by the regular decision deadline are still right on schedule. These students will receive their admissions decisions after the early action and early decision applicants. Applying regular decision is a great option for many students, but beware that there may be more limited spaces when you apply later! These deadlines are typically February - April.
Rolling Admissions
Some schools offer rolling admissions rather than specific early and regular decision deadlines. This just means that the admissions decisions are made on a 'first come, first serve' basis! Make sure to get your applications in as early as possible so you get can get your decision back sooner! The final rolling admissions deadline is typically May - June.
What are the Parts of a College Application?
What are the Parts of a College Application?
General Information
General Information
This section of your application includes information about your high school, personal information like your birthday, information about your parents, and enrollment information like when you are looking to start college! This just allows the school to get a general idea of who you are!
Activities
Activities
This section is where you allow your life outside of the classroom to shine! Here is where you would share what activities you are involved in and how long you have been involved in these activities. Examples include sports, clubs, volunteer experience, jobs, family involvement, etc.
Essay
Essay
Some schools may require you to write an essay to apply. Don't worry, this is just so they can get to know you better! These essays are often short (250-650 words) and are designed to allow you to show the admissions teams who you are outside of the classroom.
Transcript
Transcript
Colleges require you to submit your high school transcript so they can see your GPA and confirm that you are on track to meet the minimum course requirements for admission to the school. If you need help finding, requesting, or submitting this information please do not hesistate to reach out to your adviser or guidance counselor!
Test Scores
Test Scores
When schools request to see your test scores, they are referring to your ACT & SAT scores. Make sure to check if the school you are applying to requires you to submit these scores. Even if they are not required, they could be beneficial to submit for some scholarships!
Recommendations
Recommendations
Many schools require at least one (1) letter of recommendation. Typically schools are looking for an academic recommendation (teacher), but recommendations can also be written my coaches, volunteer leaders, and other community members. Make sure to ask your recommender in advance to give them plenty of time!
How Much Does It Cost to Apply?
How Much Does It Cost to Apply?
Many schools will require students to pay an application fee before they process your application. These application fees can range anywhere from $20 - $100+. Do not let this discourage you from applying! It is possible that you may qualify for an application fee waiver. If you believe that you may qualify for a fee waiver, please come see your adviser or guidance counselor for additional assistance.
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