What should I expect after submitting a college application?

Once I hit submit on my college apps, what should I do while waiting? Are there any follow-up steps I should take or things to look out for, like emails or online portals? Trying to keep myself busy and prepared!

After submitting your college application, there are several things to expect.

First and foremost, you should receive a confirmation e-mail confirming that your application was submitted successfully. If you do not receive this within a day or two, it would be a good idea to reach out to the college’s admissions office to confirm receipt of your application.

Second, you will typically receive instructions for accessing an online admissions portal for each school. These portals are key - they will provide updates on the status of your application, any missing components, and ultimately, your admission decision. Make sure to check them regularly - some schools primarily communicate through these portals.

Thirdly, be prepared to wait. The waiting period can be a bit daunting, but patience is key. Each school has its own timeline for sending out admissions decisions, ranging from a few weeks to a few months after the application deadline. During this time, you can keep yourself busy with your current schoolwork, extracurricular activities, or part-time jobs.

Lastly, you might get contacted for an interview. This is more common with some schools than others, but if offered one, it's usually a good idea to accept and prepare for it accordingly. Do note places like Brown University have transitioned away from alumni interviews to a more equitable option, a two-minute personal video introduction.

In the unfortunate event that you need to correct an error in your application after submission, contact the admission office of the particular school directly to clarify the issue. They will guide you on how to make the necessary changes.

Remember, it's crucial to stay organized during this period. Keep track of login details, correspondences, interview schedules, etc., and ensure your contact information is updated and correct. It's a waiting game from here, but these steps should keep you involved and prepared. Good luck!