Preparing for College - Applying to Colleges and Universities
A daunting task for many a student and parent is the application process associated with going to college.
This briefing will provide students and their parents with information regarding some general guidelines and
observations concerning the application process associated with making going to college happen.
Applying to School
Generally, most students apply to college in the spring before the fall semester in which they want to attend.
Some colleges, however, offer early or other admission plans. Early admission can come with the stipulation that
if you are accepted, you must agree not to apply to other schools. It's a limitation you should consider, especially
if you aren't sure about whether you really want to attend a particular school and if you need more information about
costs and financial aid.
The Application
Unfortunately, you may have to fill out a different application for each school on your list. But before you do that,
check with the schools admission offices to see if they accept the "Common Application." If so, get a copy of it
(from the school, the Internet, or your counselor's office), fill it out, photocopy it, and send it to each one.
You also may be able to apply electronically. Check with the schools on your list for more information.
Most college applications will ask you for the following types of information:
- Personal data
- Family information
- Educational experience
- Test scores
- Academic experience
- Awards and honors
- Extracurricular activities (including school, religious, civic, and volunteer)
- Work experience
- Written essay
- Recommendations from teachers and counselor
- High school transcript
Some Tips
In addition, some schools may require a personal or telephone interview. Keep in mind the following when filling
out your application:
- Read through the application before you start writing answers down.
- Note any deadlines, and give yourself plenty of time to meet them.
- Answers ALL questions. Don't leave anything blank.
- Follow directions.
- Type or print your answers.
- Be neat. Presentation is important.
- Include supporting materials (letters of recommendation, outstanding
examples of your work or interests)
- Make a copy, in case it gets misplaced.
- Sign it.
- Include a check for the processing fee, if required.
- Practice writing the essay before putting the final version on the application.
- Fine tune your essay. Don't ramble.
- Have someone else review your draft essay.
- Be yourself in your essay.
- Don't exaggerate your achievements or abilities.
- Proofread your application. Better yet, ask a parent or a friend to proofread it too.
For more information, review the academic preparation and standardized tests briefings, and also check out
Internet Resources that are available.
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Information Gathering
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Financial Aid Planning
