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College Application Process

 

College Application Process and Checklist for High School Seniors

Navigating the college application process can be daunting for high school seniors. This guide provides a comprehensive checklist to help you stay organized and ensure you meet all necessary deadlines.

Step-by-Step College Application Process

  1. Research Colleges
  • Identify your priorities (location, size, majors, cost, etc.).
  • Use resources like college websites, virtual tours, and college fairs.
  • Create a list of potential colleges
  • Utilize Naviance features like: Advanced College Search and SuperMatch College Search.
  1. Standardized Tests
  • Register for required standardized tests (SAT, ACT).
  • Check if the colleges on your list require SAT Subject Tests.
  • Consider taking tests more than once to improve scores.
  1. Application Types
  • Decide on which application system to use (Common Application, Coalition App, or school-specific).
  • Check if any colleges offer Early Decision or Early Action and decide if you want to apply to any schools using these options.
  1. Gather Application Materials
  • Request official high school transcripts through Naviance-Colleges I’m Applying to.
  • Request recommendation letters from teachers, counselors, or other mentors through Naviance- Colleges I’m Applying To.
  • Write and refine your personal statement or essays.
  1. Financial Aid and Scholarships
  • Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as possible beginning in October.
  • Research and apply for scholarships and grants.
    • FastWeb, High School Counseling web page.
  • Check each college's financial aid application requirements.
  1. Submit Applications
  • Ensure all components of your application are complete.
  • Pay attention to deadlines for each college.
  • Submit applications and confirm receipt.
    • Be sure to complete STAR (Self Reported Transcript and Academic Record) if required.
  1. Follow-Up
  • Confirm that colleges have received all parts of your application.  Many colleges will send you an email to track your application by creating an account on the college’s portal.
  1. Decisions
  • Review acceptance letters and financial aid offers.
  • Visit campuses if possible to make an informed decision.
  • Notify your chosen college by the decision deadline, typically May 1st.

College Application Checklist

  • Research potential colleges and create a list.
  • Register and prepare for standardized tests.
  • Choose the application type and determine deadlines.
  • Request high school transcripts.
  • Obtain recommendation letters.
  • Write and edit personal statements or essays.
  • Complete and submit FAFSA.
  • Research and apply for scholarships.
  • Submit completed applications before deadlines.
  • Schedule and prepare for interviews.
  • Confirm receipt of applications and materials.
  • Review acceptance letters and financial aid offers.
  • Make a final college decision and notify the institution.

By following this step-by-step guide and checklist, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the college application process. Good luck on your journey to higher education!