Thinking about applying for college? Awesome! This is a huge step toward your future. Not to stress you out too much, but your application will probably be one of the main factors determining whether you get into your dream school.
Still, there's no need to worry. When you finish reading this article, you'll know exactly how to approach this process. We'll run through everything a college application will ask you to provide and explain how to knock it out of the park.
What to prepare before applying
Here are a few things to check off your list before you start licking envelopes and mailing off applications (actually, does anyone really submit them via snail mail these days?):
- Make a list of schools. Before submitting an application, you have to decide where it's going. Most students apply to a few schools before making a final decision. Make a list ranking the schools that interest you.
- Write down application deadlines. Each school will have a different deadline, and you don't want to miss out on a chance to toss your name in for consideration.
- Learn about each school's application requirements. Which schools require test scores? How many letters of recommendation do you need? Do you really have to write ANOTHER college essay? Maybe, but you won't know for sure unless you double-check each school's application requirements.
- Create a checklist. If you want to go above and beyond, set up a checklist that you can use to cross off application requirements as you complete them. You'll feel like a beast once you start seeing how much you're actually getting done.
If you take early action, you'll set yourself up to make a quick admissions decision once you get your acceptance letters. Then, simply kick back and enjoy your senior year.
The college application itself: What's included?
So you've made a list of schools and written down their application requirements. Now you're ready to dive into the nuts and bolts of the common application.
You may not find these items on every college application, but you should never be surprised to see complete college applications ask for supplemental materials like:
- Application form. "Tell us your name, birthday, address, pets' names, blood type, and three secrets you've never told anyone else." OK, it probably won't get that personal, but expect to share basic details about yourself on each application form. Feel free to ask questions about anything that's confusing or unclear.
- Writing sample. Many colleges want to see how well you can write on a specific prompt. If you've written on a similar topic in the past, it's OK to repurpose that content for your application essay. Work smarter, not harder!
- Transcripts. Some colleges will want official high school transcripts, which you may have to request from your high school.
- High school profile. Talk to your school counselor if you're unsure whether your school has a profile. Some colleges want to know a little more about your school's environment or makeup.
- Test scores. Some schools require SAT or ACT scores for admission. Other schools became test-optional after the pandemic but still use test scores to determine scholarship amounts. Even if scores aren't required, including them can make your application more competitive.
- Recommendation forms. If an application asks for recommendation forms or letters, reach out to people who know you well and can speak highly about your skills, personality, and character. Let them know you're listing them on an application so they aren't surprised when the college admissions office reaches out.
- Extracurricular activities. This is your chance to talk about all the cool things you've done outside of schoolwork.
- Application fee (or coupon code). Most applications will require a small fee. Sometimes the admissions office will give you a fee waiver or coupon code. Other times, you can request a waiver to cover the cost of your application.
- Optional work sample. If you have anything else that shows off your talent or creativity, you may have space to include it in your enrollment application.
What do your school and teachers submit?
Some application materials must be official to count (typically transcripts and test scores). More often than not, this just means the school or test board submits them.
When you take your ACT or SAT, you may have an opportunity to list three schools with which you would like to share your test scores. Once your test is graded, the ACT or SAT will send an official score to the school(s) of your choice to include on your application.
As for official transcripts, you may have to request these from your high school's main office or guidance counselor. The person will print a recent transcript from their records and mail it to the school you're applying for. This saves you some work but may cost a few extra bucks (normally not more than $5 per transcript).
We have one more note about reference letters: In many cases, you won't actually get these letters yourself. The application will ask you to include an email address or phone number for the person filling out your recommendation, and they will contact him or her individually.
This is another reason to drop a quick text or email letting your recommenders know to expect contact. They will have some time to think about what they want to say in your letter. Remind them to check their spam folder in case the email from the college board is flagged as junk mail.
College application FAQs
Have more questions about the application process? We're not surprised; there's a lot to it. Check out the following FAQs to help answer some of those questions.
How long does the college application process take?
It depends on the school. Some colleges are quicker than others. Occasionally, it may be four to six weeks before you hear back about your application. Many colleges have an online portal where you can check the status of your online application.
What looks best on college applications?
Want your college application to stand out? Here are a few best practices:
- Maintain your GPA. Along with your ACT or SAT score, your GPA is the strongest indicator of your academic capabilities. Work hard to keep your grades up and colleges will quickly take notice.
- Take harder classes. If you have an opportunity to take Advanced Placement (AP) classes, this can show colleges that you're serious about challenging yourself in school. You may also get college credit.
- Participate in a variety of extracurricular activities. Get involved with different teams, clubs, and organizations based on your passions and interests. This will show colleges that you're a well-rounded person who is growing as a leader.
- Get a solid test score. Not only will this help you stand out during the application process, but it can also lead to more scholarship money. Put upcoming test dates on your calendar and look into purchasing or borrowing study material from your local library branch.
- Write a compelling personal statement. Whether you include this in your application or on your resume, this can be a great way to show colleges what makes you unique and detail your particular goals and ambitions.
How does the admissions process differ for international students?
Students who aren't from the U.S. can expect a few additional tasks as they apply to different schools:
- Credential evaluation. Your admissions office may have to research your diplomas and transcripts to determine how they relate to U.S. equivalents.
- Visa requirements. You'll have to get a Visa to live and study in the U.S. The process can vary depending on your home country.
- Language proficiency. You may have to take an extra test or two to show you're proficient in English.
- Scholarships and financial aid. As an international student, you may qualify for financial aid and scholarships in a different way than other students. Usually, international students lack eligibility for federal student aid and can't submit a free application for federal student aid (FAFSA) form.
You'll also find that moving to the U.S. for college means adjusting to a new culture. This can be difficult, but it's also a fantastic learning experience and a great way to expand your horizons.
Need help choosing the best colleges for you? College Rover has your back
By now, you likely have a better understanding of what colleges are looking for in your application and what you'll need to do to apply to your dream school. Hopefully, you feel more confident about getting started and putting your best foot forward. It will take some time and energy, but it's all in your wheelhouse. You've got this!
If you're still researching and considering which school is best for you, head over to College Rover's massive online database. Compare and contrast different schools with ease and even create a spreadsheet to share with friends and family as you think more about your decision. After all, it's likely the biggest one you'll make all year.
