Application Tips

Here we go again!

​My favorite (and busiest) time of the year...college application season!

Here are some helpful tips for stress-free submissions:

1-Have a balanced list of well-researched, good-fit colleges. I have my students apply to 5-8 schools with no more than 2 reaches.
2-Create a GoogleDoc for both the main essay and all other supplemental essays so that all writing is in one spot.
3-As applications open, complete the entire profile and add all universities. Are there unexpected requirements such as supplemental essays? Add them to your running GoogleDoc and get back to writing.
4-Know your high school's process for requesting transcripts and letters of recommendation. Always allow at least two weeks for submission.
5-Many schools will utilize an online portal for the student to manage the remaining outstanding requirements after the initial application submission. Be sure that portal is checked regularly! This is where you will be notified of outstanding requirements or even an admissions decision.
6-Submit all items that are marked optional, unless they are not relevant.
7-Reach out to the area admissions representative at each university on your list (the student, NOT PARENT).
8-Have an organized system for tracking the requirements of all applications.
9-Consider re-taking the SAT or ACT. A higher score not only helps with  acceptance potential but also increases the probability of merit aid or scholarship offers.
10-Keep track of all passwords. Resetting passwords wastes lots of time.

Above all, manage your time, and don't stress!

As long as you stay organized (and realistic), this should be a fun and exciting time. Soak up senior year, and wait for the acceptances to start rolling in.

​This time next year, there will be boxes and books and a kid proudly sporting the new college logo (and probably a weepy momma too, but it's all good!)