What Comes Next?
Post Secondary Resource Guide
Most colleges post their applications on their website to be completed and submitted online. Paper copies can be obtained by contacting the college admission office. There may be different applications for different colleges within an university, or different applications for Early Decision. Be sure to research and complete the correct application. Make sure to keep your school counselor updated on which schools you are applying to.
The Application Process
Use this information to learn about college applications and the application process.
The Application
The common Application
The Common Application is currently accepted by over 500 colleges. This application only needs to be completed once, including the teacher evaluation portions, and may be submitted to any of the participating colleges. Some participating colleges do require extra materials, including an additional essay. Check to see if the college you are applying to accepts the Common Application and if any additional materials are required to apply. The common application can be found at www.commonapp.org
Parts of an Application
This is one of the most important documents in the application process. Have your counseling office send your transcript to the colleges you are applying to. You may also be responsbile for sending your final transcript at the end of the school year. Make sure to give your school counselor plenty of notice. You and your parents may have to complete an information release document before your school counselor can release your transcript. Student athletes planning on playing college sports must have their transcript released from the NCAA Eligibility Center Website.
Transcript
The Anatomy of a College Application
Peterson's College Admission Requirements and College Applications
The Top 10 Myths of College Admission
Test Scores
Colleges require official test scores to be sent directly from the testing organizations. During testing, you can choose a few colleges to send your score to for free. If there are additional schools you would like to send your scores to, there will be an additional fee that the testing organizations charge. It will be your responsibility to make sure your test scores get sent to the colleges you are applying to. Make sure you check which test scores each college you are applying to requires.
Recommendations
Colleges may ask for personal recommendations. These letters should describe your skills, accomplishments and personalities. Make sure to ask a month before your deadline, giving both you and your letter writer plenty of time. Try to ask someone who knows you well and fits what the application is asking for. Provide your reference with your resume and personal statement. It is also beneficial to provide them with any information about your skills and accomplishments which would strengthen the letter. For more detailed information about gathering letters of recommendations, go to:
Essays
This is an opportunity for admissions to get to know you better. It also helps admissions assess your critical thinking and writing skills. Make sure to follow the essay guidelines and completely answer the essay prompt. The more people you can get to edit your essay before you submit it, the better! Check out 8 Tips for Crafting Your Best College Essay
You can also download a shory Essay Guide by clicking here.
Portfolio/Audition
Some colleges accept porfolios of art or other creative work for admission for specific programs. Some colleges also require an audtion, specifically music programs. Start developing your portfolio early and check admission requirements.
Additional Resources
