Steps to Apply to College
Published on: by SupertutorTV
- Introduction
- Explore interests and majors
- Build college list with safeties, fits, and reaches
- Start searching for scholarships
- Research and understand student loans
- Prepare for SAT and ACT exams
- Discuss finances with parents
- Stay involved in interests over the summer
- Understand community college and safety school options
- Take the ACT exam in July
- Start working on college essays and personal statement in July
- Create an application timeline or spreadsheet
- Reach out to teachers for letters of recommendation in August
- Meet with school counselor to discuss applications
- Visit colleges
- Take the SAT exam in August
- Fill out the Common App activities section
- Finalize essays once prompts drop in August
- Retake SAT or ACT if necessary in September
- Start applying to colleges in September
- Fill out the FAFSA in October
- Finish all applications by deadlines in January
- Make decision and deposit by May 1st
- Highlights
- FAQ
- See Also
Introduction
Are you wondering what are all the steps that you need to take to apply to college? In this video, I detail a timeline and provide guidance on various tasks to complete before applying to college.
Explore interests and majors
Before applying to college in June, it is important to start exploring your interests and figuring out what majors you are into. This step is crucial because it will eventually help you decide which schools to apply to and what to write about in your essays. Choosing a major early on can also impact the direction of your application process and other aspects of college admissions.
Building your college list with safeties, fits, and reaches is another key task to tackle in June before applying to college. Creating a well-rounded list of schools that match your academic profile and interests is essential to increase your chances of acceptance. It is important to have a good mix of schools that you are likely to get into, as well as some that may be more challenging to gain admission to.
Starting your search for scholarships is also a crucial step to take before applying to college. Many scholarships are institution-dependent, meaning that colleges or institutions are more likely to offer scholarships than external organizations. Researching and identifying colleges that offer scholarships can help you secure financial aid for your education.
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Try it nowBuild college list with safeties, fits, and reaches
Creating a balanced college list with safeties, fits, and reaches is essential for a successful college application process. Safeties are schools where you are almost guaranteed acceptance, fits are institutions that align well with your academic profile, and reaches are more competitive schools that may be a stretch for acceptance. Having a mix of these types of schools can help you maximize your admission options.
Researching and understanding student loans is another important step to consider when building your college list. If you are planning to borrow money for college, it is crucial to be aware of the different types of loans available, the terms and conditions associated with each loan, and the borrowing limits. Understanding the loan landscape can help you make informed decisions about financing your education.
Engaging with your interests and staying involved in activities over the summer and throughout the application process is key to showcasing your passions and strengths to college admissions officers. Taking on internships, personal projects, or summer classes can help you stand out as a well-rounded applicant. Continuing to explore your interests can also provide you with additional talking points in your application essays and interviews.
Start searching for scholarships
When searching for scholarships, it is important to focus on colleges that offer financial aid and scholarships to their students. Most scholarships are institution-dependent, meaning that colleges are more likely to provide financial assistance. Exploring scholarships offered by colleges can help you secure funding for your education and reduce the financial burden of attending college.
Understanding and exploring your alternatives, such as community college options and safety school choices, is crucial in the college application process. Community college can provide an affordable and valuable educational experience, with potential transfer options to four-year institutions. Considering these alternatives can help you make informed decisions and have a backup plan in case your initial college application outcomes do not go as expected.
Preparing for standardized tests like the SAT and ACT exams is also important when searching for scholarships. While many colleges have shifted to test-optional policies, having strong test scores can still benefit you in the college admissions process. Test scores can also qualify you for merit scholarships and financial aid, making test preparation a worthwhile investment in your college future.
Research and understand student loans
Researching and understanding student loans is a crucial step in the college application process. By taking the time to educate yourself on how student loans work, you can make informed decisions about borrowing money for college. It's important to understand the different types of loans available, such as federal loans with more favorable terms compared to private loans. Knowing the limits of each type of loan can help you plan your finances accordingly.
In June, before applying to college, it's a great idea to familiarize yourself with student loans. Understanding the loan landscape can help you determine how much you may need to borrow, how to qualify for loans, and the impact loans can have on your future financial situation. By researching student loans early in the process, you can make more informed decisions about financing your college education.
Taking the time to research and understand student loans in June can set a solid foundation for your college application journey. By gaining knowledge about the loan options available, you can make smarter choices about financing your education and ensure that you are well-prepared to manage your finances throughout college.
Prepare for SAT and ACT exams
Preparing for the SAT and ACT exams is a crucial step in the college application process. While many colleges have become test-optional, having strong test scores can still play a significant role in the admissions process. By starting your test prep over the summer, you can maximize your chances of achieving a high score and qualifying for merit scholarships and financial aid.
In June, it's important to set aside time to prepare for the SAT and ACT exams. These standardized tests can be a key component of your college application, so dedicating time to study and practice can help you perform your best on test day. By prioritizing your test prep early, you can alleviate some of the stress associated with standardized testing.
Preparing for the SAT and ACT exams in June allows you to start the college application process on the right foot. By focusing on your test prep during the summer months, you can improve your chances of reaching your target scores and setting yourself up for success in the college admissions process.
Discuss finances with parents
Having open and honest discussions about finances with your parents is an essential part of the college application process. Understanding your family's financial situation and expectations can help you make informed decisions about where to apply and how to finance your education. By talking to your parents early on, you can avoid potential conflicts later in the process.
In June, it's a good idea to have conversations with your parents about money and expectations surrounding college costs. By addressing these topics early, you can establish a clear understanding of what your family can afford and what financial aid options you may need to explore. These discussions can help you create a realistic budget for college.
Engaging in discussions about finances with your parents in June can help you align your college goals with your family's financial realities. By working together to understand the costs associated with college, you can make more strategic decisions about where to apply and how to best manage your finances throughout the application process.
Stay involved in interests over the summer
During the summer months leading up to college applications, it is crucial for students to stay engaged in their interests. Continuing to explore and expand upon interests not only adds depth to your application but also provides you with meaningful experiences to draw upon in essays and interviews. Whether it's through internships, personal projects, or summer classes, staying involved in your interests can set you apart from other applicants.
Furthermore, staying involved in interests throughout the entire application process, not just the summer, can benefit you in unexpected ways. Colleges appreciate students who demonstrate a genuine passion for something outside of academics. Additionally, if you find yourself waitlisted or deferred, having ongoing interests and activities to showcase can give you an edge and demonstrate your commitment to personal growth.
Engaging with your interests over the summer can also be a form of self-discovery and personal development. It's a time to explore new passions, take on challenges, and learn more about yourself. By staying involved in your interests, you not only enhance your college application but also invest in your own growth and well-being.
Understand community college and safety school options
In the college application process, it's important to consider all your options, including community college and safety schools. Community college can be a valuable stepping stone for students who may not have been accepted into their top choice schools or are looking for a more affordable education. Community colleges offer a quality education at a fraction of the cost of four-year institutions, making them a practical choice for many students.
Furthermore, understanding community college options allows students to explore transfer pathways to their desired four-year institutions. Some students find that attending community college first helps them save money, build academic skills, and clarify their career goals before transferring to a four-year school. It's essential to research and consider community college as a viable and beneficial option in the college application process.
Similarly, safety schools serve as backups in case students are not accepted to their reach or target schools. Safety schools are colleges where your academic credentials exceed the institution's average, making acceptance more likely. By understanding safety school options, students can create a balanced college list that includes a mix of safeties, fits, and reaches, increasing their chances of admission to a variety of institutions.
Take the ACT exam in July
For students preparing to apply to college, taking standardized exams like the ACT can be a crucial step in the admissions process. The ACT exam, typically offered in July, provides students with an opportunity to showcase their academic abilities and improve their college applications. By taking the ACT in July, students can utilize the summer months for focused studying and preparation.
Scoring well on the ACT can not only enhance your college application but also qualify you for merit scholarships and financial aid. Many colleges in the U.S. still consider standardized test scores as part of their admissions criteria, so performing strongly on the ACT can open doors to a variety of educational opportunities. Additionally, taking the ACT in July allows students to have their scores ready early in the application process, giving them a competitive edge.
Preparing for the ACT exam involves consistent practice, review of content, and familiarity with the test format. By dedicating time and effort to ACT prep over the summer, students can increase their chances of achieving their desired scores and positioning themselves as strong candidates for college admission. Overall, taking the ACT exam in July is a strategic move that can impact a student's college application positively.
Start working on college essays and personal statement in July
In July, it is crucial to start working on college essays and personal statements, even before the official application deadlines. Many colleges recycle essay prompts from previous years, so getting a head start can give you an advantage. Starting early allows you to craft well-thought-out essays and make adjustments once the prompts are released. By beginning in July, you can alleviate some of the stress that comes with last-minute essay writing.
Additionally, creating a timeline or spreadsheet for your college applications can help you stay organized and on track. Include a list of schools you are applying to, essay prompts, supplemental information required, and important deadlines. Prioritize schools with rolling admissions, early action, or early decision to ensure you submit your applications in a timely manner. Having a clear plan in place can help you manage your time effectively and submit high-quality applications.
Lastly, August is the time to reach out to teachers for letters of recommendation. Securing strong letters of recommendation is essential in the college application process. By establishing communication with your teachers early on, you can ensure they have enough time to write compelling letters that highlight your strengths and accomplishments. Meeting with your school counselor and visiting colleges can also be beneficial in August to further prepare for the application process.
Create an application timeline or spreadsheet
Creating an application timeline or spreadsheet in July can be a game-changer in the college application process. By listing all the schools you plan to apply to, along with their essay prompts, supplemental information, and deadlines, you can map out a clear plan for completing your applications. Prioritizing schools with early deadlines or rolling admissions can help you stay organized and submit your applications on time.
In the spreadsheet, include any additional materials required by each school, such as videos, interviews, or fine arts submissions. By having all the necessary information in one place, you can track your progress and ensure you don't miss any important deadlines. Setting dates on your calendar for completing each application can also help you stay focused and avoid last-minute rushes.
Having a comprehensive application timeline or spreadsheet not only keeps you organized but also allows you to allocate your time efficiently. You can plan ahead for essays, recommendations, and other application components, reducing stress and improving the quality of your submissions. By starting this process in July, you set yourself up for a smooth and successful college application journey.
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Try it nowReach out to teachers for letters of recommendation in August
August marks the time to reach out to teachers who you want to write letters of recommendation for your college applications. Securing strong letters of recommendation is crucial in presenting a well-rounded application to colleges. By establishing early communication with your teachers, you give them ample time to craft personalized and compelling letters that highlight your academic abilities, character, and potential.
Meeting with your teachers in August allows you to discuss your goals, achievements, and aspirations, providing them with valuable insights to include in their recommendations. It is essential to choose teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths and qualifications effectively. Building positive relationships with your teachers throughout high school can make this process smoother and result in stronger letters of recommendation.
Additionally, discussing your college plans with your school counselor in August can provide valuable guidance and support. Your counselor can assist you in finalizing your college list, understanding application requirements, and navigating the admissions process. By proactively reaching out to teachers and counselors in August, you set yourself up for success in your college applications.
Meet with school counselor to discuss applications
One of the crucial steps in the college application process is meeting with your school counselor to discuss your applications. Your school counselor can provide valuable insights into the application process, help you narrow down your college choices, and offer guidance on how to present yourself in the best light to admissions committees.
During this meeting, you can also discuss any specific requirements or deadlines for each college you are applying to. Your school counselor can help ensure that all necessary documents are submitted on time and that you are on track to meet all application deadlines.
Overall, meeting with your school counselor is an essential step to take before submitting your college applications. Their expertise and support can help you navigate the complex process of applying to college and increase your chances of success.
Visit colleges
Visiting colleges is a key part of the college application process as it allows you to get a firsthand look at the campuses you are considering. By visiting colleges, you can get a sense of the environment, culture, and facilities available at each institution. This can help you determine if a particular college is the right fit for you.
While visiting colleges, take note of important factors such as class sizes, extracurricular opportunities, dormitories, and campus resources. Consider scheduling meetings with professors, admissions officers, and current students to gain more insights into the college experience.
Visiting colleges can also help you envision yourself at each institution and make a more informed decision when it comes time to submit your applications. By experiencing campus life firsthand, you can better assess if a college aligns with your academic and personal goals.
Take the SAT exam in August
Taking the SAT exam in August is a crucial step for many students as it is one of the standardized tests that colleges often consider during the admissions process. By preparing for and taking the SAT, you can demonstrate your academic abilities and increase your competitiveness as a college applicant.
Studying for the SAT in advance can help you achieve a higher score, which may open up more opportunities for college acceptances and potential scholarships. Additionally, some colleges require SAT scores as part of their application requirements, so taking the exam can ensure that you meet all necessary criteria.
By taking the SAT in August, you can get ahead of the college application timeline and have your scores ready to include in your applications. Be sure to register for the exam early, study diligently, and approach test day with confidence to maximize your chances of success.
Fill out the Common App activities section
In order to successfully apply to college, it's important to fill out the Common App activities section thoroughly. This section allows you to showcase all your extracurricular involvements, leadership roles, volunteer activities, and work experience. Make sure to provide detailed descriptions for each activity, including the time commitment, your responsibilities, and any accomplishments or skills gained. Admissions officers use this section to get a sense of who you are outside of academics, so it's essential to make a strong impression.
When filling out the Common App activities section, remember to prioritize quality over quantity. Instead of listing every activity you've ever participated in, focus on those that are most meaningful to you and align with your interests and future goals. Be honest and transparent in your descriptions, as admissions committees can easily spot exaggerations or inaccuracies. Additionally, use this section as an opportunity to highlight any unique experiences or talents that set you apart from other applicants.
Lastly, don't leave any blank spaces in the Common App activities section. If you feel like you don't have enough activities to fill the entire section, consider including hobbies, interests, or personal projects that demonstrate your creativity and passion. Admissions officers appreciate seeing a well-rounded picture of each applicant, so take the time to thoughtfully complete this portion of your college application.
Finalize essays once prompts drop in August
One of the most crucial steps in the college application process is finalizing your essays once the prompts drop in August. Your essays are a key component of your application and offer you the opportunity to showcase your personality, values, and experiences to admissions committees. Start by reviewing the essay prompts provided by the Common Application or individual colleges and brainstorming potential topics that resonate with you. Consider how each essay can complement other parts of your application, such as your transcript and recommendation letters.
As you begin drafting your essays, focus on crafting compelling narratives that capture the reader's attention from the very beginning. Be authentic and genuine in your writing, sharing personal anecdotes or reflections that highlight your character and aspirations. Don't be afraid to revise and edit your essays multiple times to ensure clarity, coherence, and impact. Seek feedback from teachers, counselors, or peers to gain different perspectives and make improvements.
When finalizing your essays, pay close attention to grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. A polished and well-written essay can leave a lasting impression on admissions officers and distinguish you from other applicants. Make sure your essays reflect your voice and individuality, allowing the admissions committee to understand your motivations, ambitions, and potential contributions to their college community.
Retake SAT or ACT if necessary in September
If you're considering retaking the SAT or ACT for college admissions, September is a strategic time to do so. Standardized test scores play a significant role in the application process and can impact your chances of acceptance, merit scholarships, and financial aid. Evaluate your previous test performance and identify areas for improvement to develop a focused study plan. Utilize resources such as review books, practice tests, online modules, or tutoring services to enhance your test-taking skills.
Before retaking the SAT or ACT, familiarize yourself with the test format, question types, and timing to build confidence and efficiency. Set realistic score goals based on the requirements of your target colleges and scholarship programs. Create a study schedule that allocates sufficient time for practice, review, and simulated test sessions. Consider taking advantage of official test dates in September to align your preparation efforts and maximize your performance potential.
After retaking the SAT or ACT, reflect on your testing experience and results to determine whether additional attempts are necessary. Some colleges superscore or consider your highest section scores from multiple test dates, so strategic planning can enhance your overall competitiveness. Remember that standardized tests are just one aspect of your application, and colleges evaluate candidates holistically. Stay focused, motivated, and resilient throughout the retake process to achieve your desired outcomes.
Start applying to colleges in September
When it comes to starting the college application process, the timeline suggested in the article starts with activities in June prior to the application season. One of the first steps suggested is to explore your interests and figure out potential majors. This is important because it can help guide the selection of schools and what to write about in application essays. It is a good idea to start early on this aspect to avoid rushing later on.
Another crucial step suggested in the article is to build a list of colleges that includes a mix of safeties, fits, and reaches. This step is essential for ensuring that there are options available and a variety of schools to choose from during the application process. Additionally, researching scholarships and understanding student loans early on can help in planning the financial aspect of college education.
Preparing for standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT is also highlighted as an important task to undertake during the summer months. Although many colleges have transitioned to test-optional policies, having good test scores can still be beneficial for admissions and financial aid purposes. Engaging with interests, discussing financial expectations with parents, and considering backup options like community colleges are other valuable suggestions provided in the article.
Fill out the FAFSA in October
The article emphasizes the significance of filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in October, as it opens at the beginning of the month. This step is crucial for students seeking financial aid and scholarships to fund their college education. By completing the FAFSA early, students can ensure they meet deadlines and have access to various funding opportunities.
In addition to filling out the FAFSA, the article recommends finishing any early applications, including early decision, early action, or rolling admission schools, by the end of October. This proactive approach can help students stay organized and ahead of deadlines during the application season. It also allows ample time for preparing and submitting all required materials for each application.
Furthermore, continuing to apply and turn in applications until all deadlines in early January is encouraged. By diligently working on applications throughout the fall months, students can maximize their chances of getting accepted into their desired colleges. The article provides a comprehensive timeline and checklist to guide students through the application process and highlights the importance of staying on top of deadlines and requirements.
Finish all applications by deadlines in January
As students progress through the college application process, the article advises applying to colleges in September, especially those with rolling admissions or offering merit scholarships. By targeting these schools early on, students can receive responses sooner and have more options available for consideration.
In October, besides submitting early applications and filling out the FAFSA, the article suggests finalizing essays once the prompts are released. It is crucial to seek feedback from others, like friends or guidance counselors, to ensure that essays are well-crafted and reflective of students' abilities and aspirations.
Finally, by early January, students should aim to have finished all their applications and met all set deadlines. This proactive approach can help alleviate stress and ensure that students have completed all necessary steps to secure their spots at colleges of their choice. The article underlines the importance of organization, planning, and timely action throughout the college application journey.
Make decision and deposit by May 1st
As May 1st approaches, it is imperative for high school seniors to make the final decision on which college or university they will attend in the fall. This decision involves weighing various factors such as academic programs, financial aid packages, location, campus culture, and career opportunities post-graduation. It is a significant milestone in the college application process, as it marks the culmination of months of hard work and planning.
Once the decision has been made, students often need to submit a deposit to secure their spot at the chosen institution. The deposit deadline of May 1st is a common practice among colleges and universities in the United States. By submitting the deposit on time, students officially accept the offer of admission and reserve their place in the incoming freshman class. This step is crucial, as failing to meet the deadline could result in the loss of the admission offer.
In addition to making the final decision and submitting the deposit, students should take this time to celebrate their accomplishments and look forward to the next chapter in their academic journey. Whether they are heading to a prestigious university, a small liberal arts college, or a community college, the college experience is a time of growth, learning, and self-discovery. By completing this last step of the college application process, students can officially begin to prepare for the exciting challenges and opportunities that await them in higher education.
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Try it nowHighlights
- Exploring interests early on can help direct your college application process.
- Building a balanced college list is essential for a successful application.
- Understanding financial aid options and student loans is crucial for planning ahead.
- Preparation for standardized tests like the SAT and ACT is key for college applications.
- Engaging with activities and interests can enhance your college application profile.
FAQ
A: Exploring interests early can help you make informed decisions about your college major, which can shape the schools you apply to and the content of your application essays.
A: Students should start preparing for standardized tests early to ensure they have enough time to study and achieve their best possible scores.
A: Having open conversations about finances can help students and parents align on expectations and make informed decisions about college choices.
A: Community colleges offer affordable opportunities with potential transfer plans, and safety schools provide fallback options in case desired schools do not admit a student.
A: Continuing to stay involved with interests can provide additional material for applications and enhance the overall profile of a student, especially if waitlisted or deferred.