How to Apply to College
How to Apply to College
Navigating the College Admissions Process
Applications are not intended to be completed in one day. Start it, save, and come back - over and over- until ready to submit. If you feel like you are getting frustrated or overwhelmed then TAKE A BREAK. Use the checklist below to help you in the process. Save all short answers and essays in word BEFORE putting them in your application.
General Suggestions
Use an contact email address that is appropriate - Example: hotmomma2021@... is not appropriate
Write all basic information, short answers, essays in a word document to so you can save your work, spell check and edit as needed. Then copy and paste into your application.
A college application is a formal process to apply for higher education.
It involves submitting required documents and information to colleges/universities.
We recommend you put all this information into a word document so you can just copy and paste it as needed when you are applying.
Follow application guidelines and deadlines for each college.
Components of a college application:
Personal Information (name, address, contact details, etc.).
Academic History (high school, GPA, transcripts).
Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT).
Extracurricular Activities (clubs, sports, community service, leadership roles).
Essays and Personal Statements. (Save these in a word document before submitting).
Letters of Recommendation. (Reach out to teachers, counselors, or mentors who can provide positive recommendations.)
Resume (if applicable)
Application Fee (sometimes required or see if you can qualify for a waiver).
Optional Interviews (on-campus or via video conferencing).
Admissions committees review applications to decide on admissions.
Make sure your school accepts the common app application before using it. I would only use this tool if you are applying to two or more schools that accept that application. Otherwise, apply directly to the college with their direct application.
Common App - The Common App allows you to apply to multiple schools at once.
About 950 colleges and universities around the world accept the Common App.
Applications typically open on August 1 and close on January 1.
Some schools still maintain proprietary applications or use other application systems.
The application only requires you to fill out the form once and then it is available to send to any of the schools that are a member of the system.
If you have several schools that accept the Common App, that's several less forms you will have to complete.