Once you have done your research, visited campuses, talked with admission representatives, and narrowed your list of colleges, then email, write, or telephone admission offices to request applications. Many, if not most, colleges now have applications and other admission information online. Check the individual college's web page to see what is available and decide whether you will apply online or use a paper copy of the application. The choice is yours. You may find that some schools prefer online applications and will reduce or waive the application fee if you apply electronically. Again, you must do your research to determine the best way for you.
Organization
Once you begin receiving application materials, it is imperative that you get organized! Use the Application Checklist to track your progress. Have a calendar with application deadlines noted. If at all possible, submitting applications well before the deadline is a good idea!
A few things you should be looking for as you receive application materials:
Application Deadlines: Early Action, Early Decision, Regular Decision, Merit Scholarship (if available), and Financial Aid deadline. If a school is on rolling admission, the earlier you apply, the better.
Testing Requirements: Testing requirements vary from school to school. Most colleges accept either SAT or ACT. Many colleges require SAT II: Subject Test results - find out which tests are required or recommended and plan accordingly.
Recommendation Letters: Are teacher recommendations required or recommended? Is a counselor letter required? You must ask teachers to write for you long before the deadlines.
Interviews: Are interviews required or recommended? Are alumni interviews an option? If you are visiting a college campus, you should phone ahead and request an interview if the school recommends or requires one.
Essay: What are the essay requirements? Make sure you answer the question and submit an essay that is your own work.
Extracurricular Activities/Resume: Now is a good time to begin putting together a list or a résumé of your extracurricular activities, leadership roles, church activities, work experience, summer experiences, etc. Most colleges are interested in who you are outside the classroom as well as the type of student you are in the classroom.
