College Application Process

The college application season has begun, and many rising high school seniors are asking “What do I do? How do I do this?” This is particularly the case in light of the Covid-19 quarantine, during a time when students cannot visit college campuses.

This is actually a great time for rising seniors to start their Common Application (Common App). To date, there are over 800 schools across the country that use the common app which means you can fill out one application and send it to multiple schools, and then your list can keep growing. 

Right now is the best time to start the Common App but, before you do, make sure you understand all the information you need to gather and remember, it takes time! Start by developing a college list making sure it’s reflective of you and what you want in a college. Make sure they have a program that interests you, take the virtual college tour, make sure you like the campus, know the admission requirements and see if they take the Common App. Finally, create a comparison chart and a timeline for completion of tasks.

Now you are ready to begin your Common App.

Remember, every college has its own set of application requirements and every student has a different set of responsibilities especially during the summer when you are balancing work and perhaps family obligations. Whatever you do, be prepared with the information and materials you need to fill out the application. You will need to get letters of recommendation and to make sure your parents are involved in at least their portion of the Common App.

The 6 main parts of the Common App. include:

Profile, Family, Education, Testing, Activities, and Writing.

Within each section there are subsections to be filled out, so the process takes time. Plan it out and be prepared.

Here is what you should remember and keep track of as you fill out each of the 6 sections:

1. Deadlines

2. Application fees

3. Personal essays - Topic reminder, when you write show don’t tell.

4. Test policies 

5. Do you need a portfolio?

6. Are there additional writing supplements?

(These are important, and don’t forget to check if there is supplemental information needed.)

7. Recommendations 

8. Transcripts

9. Activities/Honors

Now is the time to strategically plan how to complete your Common Application so you are not stressing about it and you can enter your senior year with confidence. I am here to help if you need guidance. 

Jacqueline Jewett, M.S., Director of Transitional Services