As I'm halfway through my junior year, I'm trying to get ahead on college applications. Can someone help me outline the whole application process, including key steps and deadlines? I'm worried I'll forget something important.
Sure, I'd be happy to help you outline the college application process. Please know that this is a general roadmap and specifics can vary based on individual circumstances and choices.
1. Spring of Junior Year
Start your research on colleges. Factors to consider include size, location, academic programs, and culture. You can use sources like CollegeVine's school profiles for this. Also, plan your standardized testing schedule, considering SAT or ACT dates.
2. Summer before Senior Year
Draft your college list based on your research. The list should have a mix of reach, match, and safety schools, and you should be happy attending any of them. You should also begin on the Common App or Coalition App, including personal information and activities list. Draft your personal statement over the summer. This gives you the chance to receive feedback and make revisions prior to application deadlines.
3. Early Fall of Senior Year
Finalize your application list. Communicate with your teachers and school counselor to request letters of recommendation. Make sure to finalize and edit application essays.
4. Fall of Senior Year
Complete specific supplemental essays for each college on your list. These questions typically ask why you're interested in that particular school or program. Deadlines for Early Decision and Early Action applications tend to be around November 1. Regular Decision applications usually need to be submitted by January 1 or 15, but deadlines might be as late as February or March for some schools.
5. Fall/Winter of Senior Year
Fill out the FAFSA to apply for financial aid starting October 1. Certain states and schools have limited funds, so it's best to complete this as early as possible.
6. Winter/Spring of Senior Year
Decisions start to roll in around this time. Early Decision and Early Action decisions often come out in mid-December. Regular Decision decisions generally come out between March and April.
7. By May 1 of Senior Year
This is National College Decision Day, and most schools expect your commitment (and deposit) by this date.
Remember to check specific deadlines for each college and scholarship you're considering. Using a planner or digital calendar can help keep you organized. Best of luck with your college application journey!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.