The college application process can be a lengthy endeavor. Many high school students become anxious over the amount of work required for applying for the colleges of their choices. To make matters more difficult, students are advised to apply to several different colleges to ensure acceptance into at least one of their school choices. This means as a high school senior you will have to navigate the college application process for not just one, but for many different universities. While applying to schools may seem like an overwhelming task, with proper planning and adherence to application deadlines the process can go rather smoothly.
It’s best to start the college application early process in order not to miss any deadlines. However this isn’t always possible. Many high school students remain on the fence on whether or not they want to go to college well into their last semester of high school. While those students limit their college and university options it is still possible for those late bloomers to attend a good school. Several institutions all across the nation have later deadlines or even rolling admissions ( when students can apply for admissions throughout the school year). If you recently decided you want to attend college after high school here are some tips to help you get in your applications.
Research is key
It’s important to understand what options you have available to you. In order to do this you will have to take the time to do some research. Sit down and decide what you want out of a school. Decide what things are and aren’t important to you. Three main factors to consider are price, location, and degrees offered. The next thing you want to do is use the internet. A simple web search for schools with late applications deadlines (or rolling admissions) is a good place to start. Keep an open mind as you look at your options. Consider schools in different states or community colleges. If you have your heart set on a certain school that you’ve missed the application deadline then consider looking for a school that has an easy transfer policy. With some creative thinking you solid research you can find the option that is best for you.
Understand the terms
Before you start your applications, it is important to familiarize yourself with the application lingo. Different colleges and universities offer different programs and use various application procedures. Understanding some key terms will help you evaluate certain programs and navigate the application process. You will also want to understand the different types of admissions decisions. Admitted, deferred acceptance, denied, and waitlisted are all key admissions decisions that you can encounter. Each decision requires a different response and will affect which school you will ultimately attend.
Make a checklist
Sit down and write out all the application requirements for each school you want to apply to. Be sure to include all financial aid information, as paying for school is just as important as getting in. Make a note of all important deadlines, usual as well unusual application criterions. Do not just assume that if one school asks for two letters of recommendations, another school will not ask for three or four. Some schools also require additional standardized tests (such as the SAT II subject matter tests) or classes for particular majors. Once you understand what is needed for each application check out to see if your school accepts a common application (a standard college application which is accepted by almost 400 different colleges. See www.commonapp.org), or a school specific application (which can either be filled out online or submitted by mail).
Get Letters of Recommendations
Because it’s late in the application time-line you will need to ask people that you know who can quickly turn out a letter of recommendation. This might mean you won’t be able to get the “typical” recommenders, but that might not be a bad thing. Be creative and think of people who know you well and can attest to your talents and abilities. Don’t forget to write out a thank you note to everyone who takes the time to help you in this process.
