Applying to College
Applying to college is a big job, but you can make it easier by breaking it down into a series of small steps.
1. Get Informed
Colleges want to know the real you. When you apply to colleges, you don’t have to try to make yourself look better by listing the kinds of accomplishments or writing the kind of essay you think they want to see. If you’re honest about who you are and what you’ve done, you’re more likely to end up at a college that’s a good fit for you.
2. Brainstorm
Most applications ask you to describe what you’ve done in and out of the classroom. Start thinking about your activities, honors and awards, and make a list of those that mean the most to you. You can also write down some notes on your favorite classes and the reasons you like them.
3. Search the Web and Talk to your Counselor
There is a lot of information available to you. Sites such as the ACT or Big Future are a great way to start. Both contain useful information and resources that can help you get started.
1. Get Informed
Colleges want to know the real you. When you apply to colleges, you don’t have to try to make yourself look better by listing the kinds of accomplishments or writing the kind of essay you think they want to see. If you’re honest about who you are and what you’ve done, you’re more likely to end up at a college that’s a good fit for you.
2. Brainstorm
Most applications ask you to describe what you’ve done in and out of the classroom. Start thinking about your activities, honors and awards, and make a list of those that mean the most to you. You can also write down some notes on your favorite classes and the reasons you like them.
3. Search the Web and Talk to your Counselor
There is a lot of information available to you. Sites such as the ACT or Big Future are a great way to start. Both contain useful information and resources that can help you get started.
4. Get Organized
If you can keep track of everything you need, you’ll be ahead of the game. For each college you’re applying to:
•Create a real and a virtual folder for storing documents.
•Print a checklist to track your progress on each part of the application.
•Look at different online application formats such as the Common Application and QuestBridge.
If you can keep track of everything you need, you’ll be ahead of the game. For each college you’re applying to:
•Create a real and a virtual folder for storing documents.
•Print a checklist to track your progress on each part of the application.
•Look at different online application formats such as the Common Application and QuestBridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When should I start?
- How many colleges should I apply to?
- Should I send additional material?
Some arts programs may require portfolios or videos of performances. Check with the college to find out the best way to submit examples of your work.
- Should I apply early?
- How do I begin?
- Should I use an online or a paper application?
- Is it OK to use the same material on different applications?
- What is the Common Application?
Be aware that you may need to submit additional or separate documents to some colleges. You also still need to pay individual application fees for each college.
- How do I send a teacher invitation through the Common Application?
The Common Application Process | |
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- What is Questbridge?
- Should I apply to colleges if my admission-test scores or grades are below their published ranges?
Remember that colleges consider many factors to get a more complete picture of you. For example, they look at the types of classes you take, your activities, recommendation letters, your essay and your overall character. Colleges are looking for all kinds of students with different talents, abilities and backgrounds. Admission test scores and grades are just two parts of that complete picture.
- Should I even bother applying to colleges I don’t think I can afford?
Even if the aid package the college offers is not enough, you have options. Many colleges are willing to work with students they have chosen for admission to ensure that those students can afford to attend.