Applying for College

The first step is to obtain the admission forms. There are several sources to get college applications.

• If any of the schools on your list are local, check with your high school guidance counselor. Often the counselor will have application packets for local colleges on-hand for your convenience.


• Contact the Admissions Office at the schools on your list to request an application form. You can call, write, or email to request an application. Depending on the college, there may be a nominal charge.


• Colleges often post application forms on their websites. Check the school websites for application files you can download to your own computer. With an electronic file, you can print the form or complete it on your PC.

Decide Who You Will Ask for Recommendations

The recommendations you receive show a lot about your character. They also give an admissions officer a feel for how you will fit into the campus culture. Think about who will provide you with the most memorable reference: teachers, coaches, clergy, and employers are all good candidates. If you volunteer at a community organization, an administrator may also be a good source.

Order Copies of Transcripts

Talk to your guidance counselor about what's required to forward your transcripts to the schools on your list. How long will it take to fulfill your request? Do you need to provide a stamped envelope addressed to the college? Is there a charge for copying and/or postage costs? Will the school send only your mid-year transcripts? Do you have to make a separate request to forward your final transcript?

These are important considerations. If you attend a large high school, hundreds of students could be making the same requests, so it might take a week or two before your transcripts are in the mail. Make sure you plan accordingly.

Write the Essays

A great essay can mean the difference between an admission offer and the waiting list. Don't leave this to the last minute, because good writing takes time!

The best writing is simple and direct, easily understood by the people to whom it is intended. When an Admissions Officer reads your essay, he/she is looking for an impression of you.

Fill Out the Forms

• Make a copy of the application form to use as a draft. Keep the original for your final version.


• Use a pencil to fill out the draft form.


• Make a copy of any electronic form or file before you begin entering data.


• Make certain you answer every question.


• Write neatly and clearly when you transfer your responses to the final form. If possible, type your application so it's easier to read.


• Proofread the application for spelling errors and grammatical mistakes.


• Ask an adult to proofread the application.

Submit the Applications

• The final application you submit will be the Admission Officer's first impression of you. As you know, first impressions are quite powerful. Make your application's first impression a positive one.


• If the application contains multiple pages, clip them together before you put them in the mailing envelope.


• Regardless of the method you choose to send in your college applications, make sure you allow for delivery time.


• If you submit the application electronically, ask for verification or return receipt.


• Keep copies of everything and note the date sent.


• Follow up with each school to make sure the Admission Office received the application and that they have everything they need to make a decision.

Your final step, wait for the decision letters.