Applying TO College

College applications may seem overwhelming, but with some effort and organization you can prepare a strong application – and get accepted to the college of your choice. Follow the tips below to stay on top of your application and deadlines:

Get organized – Finalize the list of colleges that you are interested in. Request applications and additional information from the colleges. Make note of the deadlines for all application materials.
Take the SAT and/or ACT – Become familiar with the types of test questions you can expect by studying and preparing for the exams. There are many SAT and ACT prep classes and study guides to help you prepare. Make sure you take practice tests before the actual exam. When taking the test, request that your scores be sent to each one of your colleges.
Start your applications early – Start on the applications right away, especially if you plan to apply through an early decision or early action plan. Deadlines for early applications are usually in October or November.¹
Find scholarships or other financial aid – Start researching for scholarships, grants, or loans. Be sure to apply for financial aid in time to meet application deadlines. Find the deadline for scholarship applications under the Education Advantage program.
Submit FAFSA – The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the first step in applying for financial aid, helps determine if you are eligible for “free money” like grants, scholarships, and reduced-cost federal student loans. To get started, go to the FAFSA website If you run into questions, there are plenty of ways to get help. You can download a free guide to the Federal financial aid system or you can talk to a financial aid expert at the Federal Student Aid Information Center (1-800-433-3243). Many high schools, colleges and other educational organizations provide free FAFSA workshops to help you complete the form. You’ll need the same financial information to complete the Education Advantage scholarship program application, so give yourself an edge by getting an early start.
Get transcripts – Notify your high school at least 3 weeks prior to the deadline to ensure that your transcripts will arrive at your colleges on time.
Ask for letters of recommendation – Ask your teachers, counselors, coaches, community leaders, or someone else who knows you and your strengths well for letters of recommendation. Ask at least a month before the due date to ensure your recommenders have enough time to meet your deadlines. Give the recommender what he or she needs to write an informed letter, which may include any necessary forms and a stamped envelope, transcript, and list of accomplishments or volunteer work.
Write your college essay or personal statement – Essays or personal statements provide a unique opportunity to showcase information about you that test scores and grades just cannot. Your essay should focus on your unique experiences that make you stand out from the other applicants. For example, you can write about your experiences of living with hemophilia and how it impacts your education or career goals, or noteworthy volunteer activities within the hemophilia community. Make sure you check for spelling and grammar, and ask someone else to proofread them as well.
Mail applications as early as possible – Some colleges and universities have rolling deadlines, and admission decisions are made as applications are received.¹

CollegeBoard. College Application Calender. Available at: www.collegeboard.com. Accessed August 31, 2009.