THE BASICS EXPLAINED

Application components

A college application package generally includes:

  • An application form (usually completed online)
  • Application fee
  • High school transcript (submitted by high school)
  • Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Application essay/personal statement (usually required)
  • An interview (sometimes optional)
  • An audition or portfolio

Application options

College application options fall into five categories:

  • Regular admissions: Generally students must apply by mid-winter of 12th grade and receive a decision by mid-April.
  • Rolling admissions: Colleges review student applications as soon as they receive all required documents, and students receive a decision in about two to six weeks.
  • Early decision: Students usually submit their application in November of their senior year and receive a decision by the end of January. This option requires that students sign a binding agreement committing them to attend the school if they get accepted. It can increase a student's chance of admission to a school but put the student at a disadvantage for financial aid.
  • Early action: Generally more flexible than early decision because it is non-binding; students do not have to attend if they are accepted. However, students may submit their application and receive a decision early. Early action programs vary from school to school.
  • Open admissions: Some community colleges have open admissions, which means they only require a high school diploma or GED for enrollment. Students are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Steps in the process

1. Submitting the application: Many colleges require essays, recommendations and sometimes supplemental application forms. Students should keep track of which documents are required at each of their college choices. Pay attention to deadlines!
2. Applying for financial aid: Students must complete the FAFSA and the TAP. They should research private scholarships and submit the financial aid application for each university they are applying to if applicable.
3. Following up: Students should follow up with colleges and universities if they have not received word that their application is being processed. One missing document means an incomplete application.

Find tips on writing a personal statement here.
Find tips on requesting college recommendations here.