How to Apply to College: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Applying to college can feel like being buried under a bunch of paperwork — and with deadlines to figure it out for yourself.

Fortunately, applying to college doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By researching schools and understanding the process, you can apply ahead of time.

Our guide will guide you step-by-step through how to apply for college – from choosing a school to applying.

1. Consider what major you want to study.

You don’t have to declare a major in your first year, but knowing your fields of interest will help you choose a university. For example, if you’re interested in marine biology, apply to schools with a marine biology program.

If you know exactly what you want to study, look to reputable research colleges in that field. And if you’re undecided, consider schools that offer majors in diverse fields, such as our most prominent schools. online college list.

2. Decide which university you want to apply to.

The College Board recommends that you apply to five to eight colleges. Some students apply to more schools. But how do you decide where to apply?

Take a look at your academic record and compare it with students admitted to your prospective schools.

Many students apply to “safe schools” – where their GPA and standardized test scores exceed the average – along with schools that match their profile and receive high applicant rates. .

You should also consider applying to “medium” schools. These are competitive schools you want to attend but your GPA and test scores match or are slightly below average. Avoid only applying to schools to increase your chances of getting an offer.

3. Decide when to apply: Type and deadline for application

Colleges have many types and application deadlines. Around 450 schools launch early action and early decision applications. With these options, students apply and get a response from the school sooner.

Big difference: Schools require students to decide early to accept an offer of admission.

Also, nearly all universities make their decisions regularly, with the application deadline usually in January. Finally, some schools use a rolling admissions process where applicants can apply at any time. Make sure you do a lot of research on the application options at your schools.

4. Decide if you will use the Common Application to apply to more than one university at the same time.

The General application allows you to apply to up to 20 universities with just one application. And over 950 schools accept the Common Application.

5. Complete the FAFSA.

FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It’s a good idea to fill out the FAFSA even if you may not be eligible for need-based scholarships.

Many schools use the FAFSA to calculate financial need and create financial aid packages, including grants and federally subsidized loans. You also need to complete the FAFSA to be eligible for many merit-based scholarships.

Students fill out the FAFSA on the federal student aid website. The application requests financial information, including parental information, for dependent students.

Here’s the good news: many Online colleges that accept FAFSAand financial aid can make cheapest online college even more affordable.

6. Fill in the Common Application.

Fill in the general application can save time. But it still requires a lot of tracking information. Stay organized throughout the process.

First, you will need to gather information. You will need a copy of your high school transcripts and college test scores. Keep in mind that some schools are test-optional or don’t require standardized test scores at all.

You will also need information about your academic title, activities, work history and achievements. Finally, the Common Application requires the information of a parent or legal guardian.

Second, you will create your first year Universal App account. Use an email address you check regularly and provide basic information like your address, date of birth, and legal name.

Next, add colleges to your Common App. You can add up to 20 fields. The Common App will list the official school forms you need for each school. The app also lists which schools require letters of recommendation and how many you will need to submit.

You will write your personal essay on Common Application, which will go to all your schools. You’ll also track college-specific questions and additional writing through the Common Applications dashboard.

Finally, the Common App will help you keep track of your school’s application deadlines and fees. General application Student Solutions Center provide support throughout the process.

Common Application Components: What to Prepare, Request and Fill in

Make a plan before filling out the Common Application. Check each school’s requirements for more material, including college-specific essay questions and portfolio requirements.

Most applicants need the following to submit a Joint Application:

• Official high school transcripts
• SAT or ACT Score (See: What is ACT? and What is SAT?)
• List of academic achievements
• A list of extraneous substances
• Personal Essay on Common Application
• Additional essays
• Introducing letter
• Free (if available)

7. Or apply to individual schools without a Common Application.

The Common Application is a way to apply to colleges. But not all schools accept the Common App. So you can also apply to individual schools.

Make sure to check Popular application fields First.

Next, visit the school’s website to learn about the application process and requirements. Contact your school counselor for assistance. You will need letters of recommendation and original essays for each school.

Monitor deadlines closely to ensure that you receive your application.