Applying to Colleges

Every college has its own application procedure. Carefully investigate the colleges that interest you and follow their instructions. Here is an overview of common components.

• Application window: Find out the earliest date for submitting an application for the coming year, and try to submit on or soon after that date. Also find out the latest date on which applications are accepted and make sure to submit before that date.
• Application fee: Most colleges require a nonrefundable application fee, which must be submitted with the application. Although this policy means you ought to apply only to an institution you actually want to attend, it is common to apply to more than one college. This gives you plenty of options to choose from.
• Application form: Most colleges want you to complete an application online, either using the college’s specific form or the common application, which is used by many colleges. Some colleges still accept paper applications. Don’t submit to one school in both formats, however.
• High school transcript: Colleges will ask you to send a transcript of your high school years. If you are still in high school, the college will probably also ask you to indicate the classes you have yet to complete. If you are submitting a GED (a high-school equivalency diploma), you’ll probably also need to submit a high school transcript to show the classes you completed.
• SAT/ACT scores: You may have to submit your ACT and/or SAT test scores as part of your overall application.
• Letters of recommendation: You may be asked to submit letters of recommendation along with your application. Ask for letters from teachers, businesspeople, and community leaders who know you and who can speak about your qualifications for the field/discipline that interests you.
• Entrance essay: Some colleges ask you to write an essay on a topic they provide. The essay should show your best writing and express a clear main point with strong support. Of course, it must also be error free, so get help with proofreading.
• Financial aid application: You’ll need to complete a separate application for financial aid. (See page 124.)
• Housing application: You’ll also need to apply separately for housing on campus. If you are planning to commute or live off campus, you’ll need to let the college know that.