When Should I Apply to College?

Too many times, students wait too late to apply to their college or university of choice. So when should you apply? Here are some tips.

• Talk to the school as early as possible to get all the information you can.
• Many schools only consider your grades cumulative through your junior year for admission. They look at your final grades to decide whether or not you can still attend.
• Apply early. The application itself is usually the most extensive process for both you and the school.
• Take your ACT and/or SAT in your junior year of high school. Due to deadlines, the October administrations (during your senior year) of the exams may be your last chance at certain institutions.
• Do not miss the final deadline. College application deadlines are non-negotiable.
• Make sure you have submitted ALL applications and required documents to your college or university.
• Keep copies of everything you submit - including the dates that transcripts were mailed by your high school.
• GET THE INFORMATION FIRST-HAND! So many things are different from one school to the next and even from one year to the next. In other words - DO NOT ASSUME.
• The application process is different at different types of schools. Not all schools require essays, lists of activities, or interviews for example.
• Above all else, do not be afraid to ask questions. This is your first time going through this process.

Try to take steps one at a time and get an early start on gathering applications and information on your colleges. Beginning all of this in October of your senior year is WAY too late.

Posted: 2/8/2001