a successful college application season

• Jul 26, 2023

Demystifying the College Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Embarking on the college application process can be both exciting and daunting. To help you navigate this important journey successfully, we have created a comprehensive step-by-step guide. In this blog post, we will break down the various components of the college application process and provide detailed explanations of each step. By understanding what each part entails, you can approach the process with confidence and maximize your chances of a successful college application season.

#1 - Research and Create a College List

The first step in the college application process is to research and create a well-rounded college list. This involves exploring different colleges and universities to identify those that align with your academic and personal interests. Consider factors such as location, size, academic programs, extracurricular activities, and campus culture. Aim to create a balanced list that includes safety, target, and reach schools that match your academic achievements and aspirations.

#2 - Understand Application Components

College applications typically consist of several components that allow admissions committees to evaluate your candidacy comprehensively. These components may include:

Standardized Test Scores: Most colleges require either SAT or ACT scores. Research the testing requirements of your target colleges and register for the appropriate exams. Prepare for the tests by studying and taking practice exams to improve your scores.

Transcripts: Transcripts provide a record of your academic performance. Request official transcripts from your high school, ensuring they include grades from all completed coursework.

Recommendation Letters: Recommendation letters offer insights into your character, achievements, and potential. Choose individuals who know you well and can speak to your strengths. Request letters early and provide your recommenders with any necessary information, such as your resume and the deadlines for submission.

Essays: Essays allow you to showcase your personality, experiences, and aspirations. Common types of essays include the personal statement, supplemental essays, and specific program or scholarship essays. Spend time brainstorming ideas, crafting compelling narratives, and seek feedback to refine your writing.

Extracurricular Activities: Highlight your involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, and any other notable achievements. Create a comprehensive list and describe your responsibilities and accomplishments in each activity.

#3 - Prepare for Standardized Tests

Standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT, play a significant role in college admissions. Familiarize yourself with the testing requirements of your target colleges and create a study plan. Consider taking practice tests and utilizing test preparation resources to improve your scores. Additionally, explore the option of test-optional schools if you believe your test scores may not fully reflect your abilities.

#4 - Understand Financial Aid Options

Understanding the financial aid options available to you is crucial as college can be a significant financial investment. Research scholarships, grants, and loans provided by colleges, federal aid programs, and external sources. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any additional financial aid forms required by your target colleges. This step will help you assess the cost of attendance and explore opportunities for financial assistance.

#5 - Submit Your Applications

After careful preparation, it's time to submit your applications. Double-check that all materials, including essays, transcripts, test scores, and recommendation letters, are submitted correctly. Pay close attention to deadlines and keep track of confirmation emails or receipts as proof of submission. Utilize the online application portals provided by colleges or use common application platforms to streamline the process.

#6 - Prepare for Interviews

Some colleges may require interviews as part of the admissions process. If you receive an interview invitation, research common interview questions, practice your responses, and develop a list of questions to ask the interviewer. Be prepared to articulate your interests, goals, and why you believe you are a good fit for the institution.

Key Takeaway

Navigating the college application process can be complex, but with a thorough understanding of each component, you can approach it with confidence. By conducting research, understanding the application requirements, preparing for standardized tests, exploring financial aid options, submitting applications promptly, and being ready for interviews, you will position yourself for a successful college application season. Remember to seek support from trusted mentors, teachers, or college admissions consulting services if needed. Good luck on your college applications, and may your academic journey be filled with growth and opportunities.

• College Apps

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Tips for Preparing Your College Application

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Tips on How to Fill Out a College Application

Correctly submitting all the different pieces of your college application is like a test─one you can easily pass. While the process may seem complicated, a little organization and attention go a long way.

Process for Completing Your College Applications

Preparing for college application season will require some effort. There are many pieces to the application puzzle and several documents to submit. There’s fees and transcripts and test scores─a lot to keep up with during this process.

To avoid feeling overwhelmed, follow these college application tips.

Getting College Applications Organized

Preparing for college application season is about staying organized. Applying for schools is much easier these days. Online applications are standard. They're quick to process and usually have built-in checks to ensure you provide all the necessary materials. Nevertheless, you must stay on top of the process to submit the application and supplementary documents correctly and on time.

Start early. Set deadlines for completing essays, collecting recommendations, and filling out forms a few weeks before they're due. Mark these earlier deadlines on your calendar. You can also track dates by setting a spreadsheet. Gather dates from all your college applications so that you can view everything from one document. College websites are the best place to find accurate deadline information.

Be consistent. Using the same name on all your forms makes things easier for admissions officers. It's also wise to use your full legal name. Doing so will avoid mistakes, delays, and discrepancies when matching data across other systems for, among other items, test scores and FAFSA®. Some applications have space for preferred names, but it's best to stick to your legal name everywhere else. Switching names─going from Bill to Billy, for example─increases the odds that your materials will get misfiled.

Be careful. Careless mistakes on your application can hurt your chances of getting accepted. A strong piece of college application advice is to set your application aside for a day before checking it for errors. You can view it with fresh eyes and spot errors more efficiently. If you can, have a teacher or parent proofread it as well. Save and review online applications before you submit them.

Alert your school. Follow your school's process for submitting transcripts. Most schools use an online platform, making things much more efficient and easier to manage. The same goes for letters of recommendation. Usually, writers can submit letters electronically through an easy-to-use linked platform. If paper documents are necessary, provide accurate addresses and follow up to ensure everything goes out when needed.

Completing the Application Package

Once you’ve completed your college application, follow these tips to make sure all the parts get where they’re going.

Don't wait. Submit online materials a few weeks before the deadline. Send anything that needs physical mailing several weeks before it’s due. To stay on track and get everything in on time, we recommend creating an application checklist.

Submit once. When you apply online, you'll usually get an automated response saying the school received your materials. If you don't, contact the college's admissions office. Don't apply online again or mail in another application.

Keep copies. Save a copy of each piece of each application. Save personal identification numbers, passwords, confirmations, and email notifications from admissions officers. Having this documentation for future reference can save you if a problem arises.

Get confirmation. If you mail documents, put a stamped postcard addressed to your house in each package so that admissions officers can let you know that your materials have arrived. The U.S. Post Office also offers a similar "return receipt" service and online tracking.

If you get an email or notification saying something is missing, don't panic. Read the email closely. It should list what you still need to submit and detailed instructions on what you can do to get it in. If the information is unclear, don't hesitate to call the admissions office for guidance.

Monitor your email. When preparing for college application cycles, create a professional-sounding email account exclusively for college matters. Use it for your applications. Check it regularly so you don't miss anything important regarding your submitted applications.

What are the main steps to applying to college?

The process involves more than just filling out the online application form. You'll also need to do other things like completing supplemental documents like the FAFSA, drafting personal essays, and getting school transcripts. When you begin the application process , the best approach is to break things down into manageable steps. You'll need to gather information, talk to family and teachers, brainstorm app/essay points, and get organized before sending an application off.

What are the major parts of a college application?

The elements of a college application can vary from one school to the next. They include:

• Application forms.
• Application fees.
• Cover letter or personal statement.
• Essays and personal statements.
• School transcripts.
• Test scores.
• Recommendation letters.
• Portfolios.
• List of extracurriculars and school activities.

How long is the college application process?

Filling out an application and gathering supplemental materials can take several weeks, but it can vary based on the complexity of the application. Simpler applications can often be completed in one sitting if you have the necessary information handy. However, you should allow several weeks to work on more involved applications. Take into consideration your course load, work schedule, and commitment to extracurriculars.

Can you submit college applications online?

If you want to learn how to fill out a college application efficiently while staying organized, turn to the school's online portal. You can fill out applications online. It's the standard for most schools.

Is it OK to lie on your college application?

It’s never OK to lie on a college application. The best college admission advice you can get is to remain honest. Lying can result in the complete revocation of your application. Even if you get accepted, there's a risk that if you’ve already been accepted, your acceptance can be rescinded.

It's not worth the risk. If you’re concerned about putting something in your application that might negatively impact it, seek guidance from your school counselor.

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College Application Season: Everything You Need to Know

Navigate the US college application season confidently! Learn everything you need to know about the process, including writing essays, crafting resumes, and preparing for interviews in this article.

The US college application season starts in late summer or early fall to gain admission for the following academic year. Students typically start working on essays the summer before senior year of high school, and submit their applications as early as November! It is an exciting time of exploration and growth for high school students. You get to pursue your academic interests and open yourself up to new possibilities. However, it can also be a stressful experience if you don't have the right resources and information.That's why we created this post – to give you all the information and tips you need to feel confident as you navigate the college application season and the entire process in general. You will learn about admission requirements, making a convincing personal statement, and much more. For further assistance, give college counseling a shot.

1. How to research and choose the right college for you

During the college application season, it is important to consider various factors. Choosing the right college is a big decision! Here's what to do some research on and consider:

Academic programs

Look at the colleges that offer programs in the field you're interested in. For example, if engineering is your thing, you might want to look into universities with great engineering departments, like MIT or Stanford. But those are some of the most competitive universities. There are a ton of great schools with engineering programs! Don't count out smaller or lesser-known schools. They can be perfect fits for students.

Campus culture

You should think about the social and cultural environment you want. Are you looking for a campus with lots of diversity and activity or something more small and intimate

Think about where you want to be. Would you like to be in an urban, suburban, or rural setting Also, take into account things like housing options, how close it is to your family, the weather, and the opportunity for future internships and networking.

Financial considerations

Make sure to check out tuition costs and the financial aid options available. Don't be afraid to seek college counseling for financial aid advice.Do some research and check out a few colleges. Tour the campus and chat with students or alumni to discover what makes each school special. You can also take virtual tours or attend webinars if you can't make it to a school in person.

2. Tips for writing a great college essay

Writing a great common app essay or personal statement can make a real difference in your application. Here are a few tips to help you create an outstanding essay:

• Brainstorm ideas - Talk around, read books, and watch movies. Seek inspiration for your application piece.
• Be authentic - Let your unique story and voice shine through the common app. Admissions officers appreciate candid and personal accounts that reveal your personality, values, and ambitions.
• Show, don't tell - Rather than simply listing your qualities in the application essay, provide concrete examples and anecdotes to back them up. This helps the reader gain a better understanding of your experiences and viewpoint.
• Keep it concise - Make your points clearly and succinctly. Avoid redundant language and make sure your application essay stays within the word limit.
• Take time to revise - Give yourself enough time to review and refine your application essay. Ask for feedback from teachers, mentors, or family members to enhance clarity, grammar, and structure.

Aiming for Ivy League schools You should learn about what they look for in an Ivy essay application.

3. How to get letters of recommendation

Strong letters of recommendation hype your college application to a higher level. They shine a light on your academic abilities and personal qualities. After all, how do universities verify the extracurricular activities of an applicant They refer to your letters of recommendation.To include them in your college application or common app, take the following steps:

• Pick the perfect recommenders: Make sure to choose teachers or academic mentors who are familiar with your work. They will speak to your strengths and accomplishments.
• Plan ahead: Reach out to potential recommenders as soon as possible – at least a few months before the deadline – to give them plenty of time to craft a meaningful letter.
• Provide details: Share your academic and extracurricular successes, as well as any specific points you'd like them to emphasize. This will help them write a more tailored and effective letter.
• Check-in: Send a polite reminder closer to the deadline to ensure your recommendation letters are submitted on time.

4. How to create a strong college resume

When putting together your college resume, showing off your achievements and experiences is essential. However, it should correspond to what you have written in the common app essay. Here are some tips to make sure you get the most out of it during this college application season:

• Keep it organized: Divide your resume into sections like education, extracurriculars, leadership roles, community service, and work experience.
• Show off what you've done: Draw attention to your successes in each section. Provide numbers to give a better picture of what you've done whenever you can.
• Personalize it: Tailor your resume to the college you're applying to. Highlight the experiences and skills that make you the perfect fit.

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Image by pikisuperstar on Freepik[/caption]

5. How to prepare for college interviews

Not all colleges require an interview as part of the admissions process, but some still do. Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Princeton, Columbia, and more interview their candidates during every college application season.If you are applying to such schools, here are some tips to help you prepare:

Research the interview format

Colleges may require in-person, virtual, or alumni interviews. Additionally, be sure to practice your answers to common questions such as, "Tell me about yourself," "Why do you want to attend this college" and "What are your strengths and weaknesses".When you answer, make sure to do so with clarity, confidence, and genuine enthusiasm about your interests and goals. Lastly, remember to keep your tone casual!

Do your homework

Before your interview, make sure you look into the college you're interviewing with. Get to know their mission, values, programs, and any recent news or updates. Showing that you've done your research will show your enthusiasm and allow you to ask meaningful questions.

Prepare your case

Take time to think about the academic accomplishments, extracurriculars, and personal experiences that have shaped you and your ambitions. Have an idea of how they fit in with the college's values and how you could bring those experiences to the school.Being prepared will make a great impression. Refer to your application essay for guidance. Don't be afraid to seek college counseling. Good counseling will help you throughout the application process.

Getting ready for the interview

Before your college interview, make sure to dress the part. This means wearing something that reflects your enthusiasm and professionalism, whether you're meeting in person or virtually. Be punctual and try to maintain good eye contact throughout the conversation.Show off your unique personality and passion, and don't forget to actively listen to the interviewer. Above all else, confidently approach the interview and be your authentic self!

6. Tips for managing the college application season

Organizing the college application timeline and process is key to a successful and orderly experience. Here are some tips to help you manage this process efficiently:

• Develop a personalized timeline: Start by building a personalized college application timeline that includes essential dates, such as college application deadlines, test dates, and financial aid deadlines. Don't wonder, "Am I allowed to submit SAT scores after the deadline". Some colleges have rolling admissions that may entertain such submissions. But competitive colleges are unlikely to respond.
• Look into application requirements: Thoroughly research the application requirements for each college you're interested in. Make a list of the documents, essays, recommendation letters, and any other materials needed. This will help you prepare and collect the needed materials ahead of time.
• Plan: When applying to colleges, plan ahead and start gathering the necessary materials. These include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any other required documents. This will help you get a head start and ensure you have everything you need in time for your applications.
• Seek support: As you apply to colleges, don't hesitate to seek advice and guidance from your school's guidance counselor, teachers, and mentors. They can provide valuable insights and help you craft your essays and applications to showcase your best qualities and aspirations.
• Proofread and revise: Before submitting your applications, it's essential to proofread all your materials. Revise everything - essays, resumes, and forms- to ensure everything is accurate, clear, and consistent. Getting someone else to review your work to catch any errors or offer their thoughts is also a good idea.
• Stay organized: Create a system for storing and managing your application materials. Track confirmation emails, usernames, passwords, and any other important information.

The big picture

Even after all this preparation, anything can happen. If you get rejected from somewhere, does the college tell you why No, colleges do not commonly explain their reasons for rejection. It can be challenging but try not to take it personally and look to your next options. All you can do is do your best and prepare as much as possible. Plus, you'll be better prepared to get into your dream college with the proper tutors and guides, like the College Counseling tutors on Lessonpal .Lastly, don't forget to take care of yourself and manage stress during this process! Enjoy the end of high school with your friends and start to look forward to a new chapter.

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Four Tips to Prepare for College Application Season

by Dr. Kristina Wright and Rosie Simpson

It’s officially fall, and the back-to-school buzz has begun to wear off. Pretty soon, you or your student will be a senior in high school, embarking on a special journey: exploring colleges and working on college applications. 

You might already know higher education is the right choice for you and feel excitement for college application season. You might be thinking, ‘is college right for me?’ and need more information to make an informed choice. Or, you might have other thoughts or even concerns around your next steps after high school graduation.  

Whether you’re excited, nervous, or somewhere in between, it’s never too early to start thinking about and preparing for what’s coming your way. 

Here are a few tips and resources to help high school students and families figure out the college process. It can be complicated – and we are here to support you!

1. Meet with your high school counselor or academic advisor, early and often  

Relationship building is an important life skill that will aid you in accomplishing your goals long after high school. Find the appropriate person on your campus and set a regular time to meet with them.

Allow them to get to know you so they can recommend best fit colleges and universities and have a good understanding of who you are for your letters of recommendation. They can also help you identify academic or extra-curricular areas for growth that can strengthen your competitiveness on applications.

2. Look beyond graduation requirements to college specific requirements  

Not only do you want to make sure that you complete all the requirements for graduation from your high school, but to be eligible to apply to college, you must also ensure that you complete admission requirements for each school to which you are applying.  

Check out some of these examples: 

• California State University (CSU) admission requirements  
• University of California (UC) admission requirements  
• Private colleges and universities might offer different requirements that you can find on their websites (for example: Pitzer College )

3. Do your research and plan ahead  

College can be for you! Websites such as bigfuture.collegeboard.org allow you to create a free account to search for colleges and universities based on factors including your location preference, major choice, and grade point average, or GPA. The website also allows you to research college costs, discover options to pay for college, and apply for scholarships.  

Once you have an idea of what you need to do to apply: create a plan. Include using your breaks and summer(s) to take courses at your local community college to start earning college credit, find an internship or job opportunity and/or a program on a college campus to give you a feel for what it’s like to be in college.

4. Communicate your needs and plans with your family  

Start talking with your family about your interests and the steps you will all need to take to apply and choose your best fit college. Use the information you discovered in your research as talking points. 

Talk about the costs associated with going to particular colleges you are interested in and the opportunities to receive funding if you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA , or the California Dream Act application , and apply for scholarships.

Regardless of where you might be in your process of considering college and your future after high school graduation, these tips will support you in diversifying your options and planning ahead to make the most informed decisions about your future.

We will be providing more resources and information throughout your journey! 

Additional Resources  

• Thinking about college? Follow these steps for juniors preparing for colleg e from the National Association for College Admission Counseling.
• Looking for resources? The I’m First! website provides a community and resources that are specific to first-generation college students.
• Still wondering if college is for you and what the benefits might be? Visit the Federal Student Aid’s Preparing for College webpage .  
• Check out California State Universities’ webpage with tips on how to prepare for college throughout high school. 
• Trying to narrow down which college is right for you? Read these three tips on choosing the right fit for college from Making Waves Foundation.

Dr. Kristina Wright

College and career success resources, about making waves foundation  .

With a unique focus on college attendance and graduation,  Making Waves Foundation  supports historically underrepresented and underserved students in pursuing their dreams.  Making Waves Academy  is a public charter school in Richmond, California, educating more than 1,100 students and Making Waves Foundation’s  college success program, known as CAP , provides coaching, scholarships, financial literacy, and career support for more than 500 college students as well as a network for more than 500 Wave-Maker alumni.

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How to Prepare for College Applications

The summer breeze in your hair, the scent of sunscreen and ocean water, a cozy bonfire to light up a warm night—you might be looking forward to all of these things and more on your summer vacation. Maybe you’ll be hopping on a plane to an exciting new destination, or maybe your adventures will take you closer to home. 

No matter what your summer adventures have in store for you, though, if you’re a rising senior, there might be one adventure in your future that feels a little less exciting … and a lot more intimidating. The approach of senior year means college application season is right around the corner. Most applications aren’t open yet, but you might be wondering about how you can get a head start on this process, so that senior year feels less like a race against the clock and more like a victory lap. 

Whether you prioritize one or all of the steps below, the options provided in this article are meant to help you do exactly that: use your summer to prepare you for a successful college application process. 

Start researching your college list

With no homework demanding your attention, summer is a great time to channel your research skills into learning about all the amazing places you might call home during your undergraduate career! Get a sense for all the things that are most important to you in a college—major, size, location, cost, and more. Then, look for the schools that come the closest to meeting your criteria.

Visit college campuses

As you find schools that really excite you, it can be helpful to actually set foot on campus and see what it’s like to be a student there. Register for a tour , talk to students and faculty when they’re available, and attend any summer programs you’re eligible for. Spending some time at a school is a great way to determine if it is a good fit for you. 

Get organized

Once you’ve narrowed down your college list, find a way to organize your application activities. Whether you use a spreadsheet, a planner, or a combination of different tools, the important thing is that you have one central location to keep track of everything pertaining to your college application process. You will want to stay apprised of college application and scholarship and financial aid application deadlines and the status of required essays and letters of recommendation—anything and everything needed for a successful application season. While you’re at it, find out who your admission counselor is at each of your institutions of interest. Don’t be shy about reaching out with any questions, and make sure to include their name and contact information in your personal database of college application information. 

Familiarize yourself with commonly requested application materials

Most, if not all, institutions of interest will have application components in common. Start planning how you will complete and submit applications now, so that you don’t have to scramble in the fall. For instance, you can start learning how to submit an official transcript. In many cases, an emailed transcript is not considered official—so it’s important to know what each university of interest to you will accept, and how its admission team wants to receive your transcript.

Start exploring financial aid and scholarship options

Applying for need-based or merit-based financial aid can be a complicated process, so it’s a good idea to start during the summer, when you have fewer upcoming deadlines and more time to figure things out at your own pace. Start poking around the FAFSA and CSS Profile websites. What do their application processes entail? What will you need? Though neither of these programs’ applications will open until the fall, it’s good to familiarize yourself with them now. Additionally, you can begin scoping out scholarships offered by your institutions of interest, as well as scholarships offered by other organizations. Know when applications open so that you can complete them right away.

Study for standardized tests

If you plan to apply to a college or university where the SAT or ACT is required, or even if you’re hoping to submit a score to a test-optional institution, now is the time to prepare for your test(s) if you haven’t already taken them, or wish to retake them to improve your score. Grab a test-prep book or find a trusted tutor, and get ready to crush those test questions.

Clean up your social media

While not every institution’s admissions staff will take the time to look at your social media accounts, some might, and it’s important to be aware of the image you’re presenting online. Is there anything you’ve posted that you wouldn’t want a university representative to see? You don’t need to remove every trace of yourself on social media, or tone down your personality or creativity—just make sure that you’d be happy with your future university or employer staff members seeing what’s there. 

Applying to colleges can be stressful, but it’s exciting too. You’re about to go on a journey to discover where you will call home during the next big chapter of your life. And you are in charge of that journey. Remember to take time to daydream about your future, and breathe in your life now as you come to the close of your high school career and look ahead with optimism toward your bright future. 

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13 College Application Goals for This Fall

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As this school year winds down, it’s time to start thinking about your college applications. Current juniors will need to start planning and working on college apps. It is imperative to set goals now; that way, you’ll be well prepared for your busiest high school year yet. Read on for our suggestions for what to add to your to-do list now to reach your college application goals in Fall.

Goal #1: Make a Timeline to Stay Organized

As this year comes to a close, make a timeline for next school year. You’ll need to stay on top of your other commitments in addition to your applications. Create a system, such as an online calendar , to stay organized for the Fall. You’ll want to include the key deadlines we’ve outlined below, along with personal commitments or other academic work and deadlines—such as tryouts for your sports team, awards ceremonies, volunteer work, and so on.

Other options for creating a timeline include working on a spreadsheet, making a physical calendar, or setting up alerts on your phone to remind you when deadlines or coming up and materials are due. Here are some more tips for how to stay organized.

Goal #2: Get Familiar With College Applications

By now, the Common App and Coalition Application will be available for the new application cycle. You might not be ready to fill out your information, but you should still take a look at the questions and essay prompts to familiarize yourself and prepare for completing them. Look through each section to make sure you understand the requirements. For instance, you’ll need to list your activities along with brief descriptions , so make sure you understand the requirements and word counts to get an idea of what you’ll say.

You can even get a head start on perusing the applications, since they tend to follow similar formats from year to year. Check out our guides for completing individual sections of the Common App for advice.

Have questions about these applications? Check out our guides to the Common App and Coalition Application .

Goal #3: Decide Which Application to Use

You should also decide on which application to use. There are pros and cons to using each application. For instance, the Coalition Application offers the unique Locker Tool for ease in storing documents and materials during high school, while the Common App streamlines the process of recording your grades and coursework. If you’re having trouble deciding, and the colleges on your list accept both, check out Common App vs. Coalition Application: Which to Use .

Some schools may require unique applications. For example, Georgetown requires its own application. Identify which schools on your list don’t accept the Common or Coalition applications, so you’ll know to plan for the extra work.

Goal #4: Write Down or Record Your Summer Experiences

Chances are, you’ve done something worth mentioning to colleges over the summer. Whether you took college classes, volunteered at a camp, or held a summer job, these are all experiences that help you grow and demonstrate that you’re serious about your future.

Take a moment to write down your summer experiences to get ideas flowing for your essays. Alternatively, you could use your phone to record yourself describing your experiences. You may not end up using these thoughts, but brainstorming can help you hone your eventual topic. Check out Where to Begin? 3 Personal Essay Brainstorming Exercises for more ideas on how to generate essay topics.

Goal #5: Finalize Your College List

By the start of the school year, you should finalize your college list. Make sure you’ve finished up any last-minute college tours and taken the time to reflect on each visit , so you know whether or not the school is a fit.

Now it’s time to draft your final college list. We recommend including 7-10 schools with equal parts middle, reach, and safety schools. Unless you apply somewhere early decision or early action, you should try to stick to this list.

Goal #6: Decide if You Are Going to Apply Early Decision or Early Action

You’ll also need to come to closure on whether you’ll apply to somewhere early decision or early action . If you are, you need to accelerate your timeline, because you’ll be applying in November. For example, you should start filling out your application in August when it comes out rather than in September.

Goal #7: Gather and Organize Your College Application Materials

Gather together your application materials. Ask your teachers for recommendations now—there are probably other seniors asking them, too, and you want to make sure they’re on board and have time. Make sure you spend some time thinking about whom you’ll ask. It might not be the teacher who gave you an A, but someone who knows you well and has insight into your ambitions and character.

You’ll also need to discuss your transcript with your guidance counselor. She’ll probably be the one to send it, but make sure she’s aware of your deadlines, and be sure to look it over before she does to catch any errors. Make sure you gather any other documents, such as your portfolio if you’re sending one, so you have everything ready and appended to your application when the time comes to hit send. Read Breaking Down the Admissions Process: Your 5-Part Guide for more advice.

Goal #8: Take Standardized Tests

If you need to take any standardized tests one more time, do it now. You should really aim to take your last iteration before now, so you’ll have a chance to see your scores before they go to colleges, but if you want to see if you can inch up your score one last time, do it now. Check out When Is The Best Time To Take The SAT? for advice on planning your test taking.

Goal #9: Finish Up Any ED or EA Applications

If you’re applying early ED or, your deadlines are probably in early November. Finish up your application now, so you have time to look it over one last time—several times, actually—and ask a parent, friend, or teacher to read it over as well.

You should also finish up your essay , or at least write the final draft. Have a few people read it over to catch any errors. Try to fix any big-picture issues—such as the structure—early in the month, so when you’re nearing the deadline, you’re just down to copy-editing details.

Goal #10: Tie Up Loose Ends and Meet with Your Guidance Counselor

You should also sit down with your guidance counselor one more time to make sure your transcript and other paperwork is in order. Now is a good time to tie up any loose ends, especially if you’re applying somewhere early. Remind her of deadlines (without being annoying). Check in with your teacher recommenders as well (again, without being annoying) to make sure they’re on track to submit your letters.

Goal #11: Submit Your ED or EA Applications

Submit your ED and EA applications. Then, try to relax—while you work on regular decision applications. Even if you applied ED, you don’t want to have to rush everything at the last minute if it’s not good news. Plus, you’ll be in less of the mood to work on apps later if you’re disappointed.

Goal #12: Regular Decision – Work on Essays and Filling Out Applications

Whether or not you apply anywhere early, you should be making major headway on your regular decision applications. By now, you should have finalized an essay idea and started writing. It’s a good idea to have at least your first draft done early in the month, so you can work out any major issues. Have other people, such as teachers, your guidance counselor, parents, or peers, read it over to get feedback. Just remember that they’re probably not experts on the admissions process, so you don’t necessarily need to enact all their suggestions. For advice on writing a great essay, check out How to Write a Personal Statement That Wows Colleges .

You should also work on other aspects of your application. Some sections, such as activities, require attention and time, so start working on them earlier rather than later. Pay attention to the supplements for colleges on your list, too. Most colleges require essays in additional to the main essay (such as the “Why Us?” essay ), and you want to take as much care with these as you do with your main essay.

Goal #13: Finish Up Regular Applications

In December, you’ll hear from any schools to which you applied early. If you’re in, congratulations! Your work is done. But if not—or if you got in somewhere under an EA plan and still want to apply to some other schools— don’t stress .

Finish up all your regular applications and submit them—after reading everything over several times and getting a fresh set of eyes on them.

The Takeaway

Mapping out your timeline now will help you make sure everything runs smoothly in the Fall. Remember: Preparation is key to a successful application season!

For more tips on preparing for admissions season, check out these guides:

Your Guide to 12th Grade Success

Breaking Down the College Admissions Process: Your 5-Part Guide

5 Ways to Get Started on Your College Applications Now

Want access to expert college guidance — for free? When you create your free CollegeVine account, you will find out your real admissions chances, build a best-fit school list, learn how to improve your profile, and get your questions answered by experts and peers—all for free. Sign up for your CollegeVine account today to get a boost on your college journey.

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Articles & Advice > College Admission > Blog

How to Avoid Burnout During College Application Season

The last thing you want to do during college application season is burn out. Here are a few ways to get ahead of things so you don't feel overwhelmed.

by Paige Miller CollegeXpress Student Writer

Last Updated: May 25, 2023

Originally Posted: Oct 22, 2018

It’s midnight on a Monday in October, and you’re sitting in a pile of tissues and takeout wrappers. You’ve fallen asleep at your computer, still wearing your clothes from the day. You wake up to see you’ve timed out of your Common App without saving an hour’s worth of work. You begin to cry, wishing for May. Don’t let this be you! College applications are difficult; there’s no denying that, but there are ways to can learn to manage your time and your application planning without burning out. Follow these tips for a more successful college application season.

Know the signs of burnout

Forbes outlined the early signs of burnout , “defined as physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress.” Symptoms include changes in eating patterns, exhaustion, neglect of physical and mental health, disengagement, and a lack of motivation. It may be easier to recognize if your friends are experiencing burnout, but don’t ignore these warning signs if you notice them in your own routine. If you know you’re becoming stressed, record it in a notebook or planner with a tally and try to pinpoint the reason why. If you find the same culprit for your stress on multiple occasions, you need to address the issue. Additionally, if you notice an overwhelming amount of tallies on your planner, you may be slowly burning out. Another good way to identify your main sources of stress and avoid burnout is to talk through your emotions with a family member or counselor.

To counteract the effects of burnout, try to focus your energy on positive relationships. Taking a walk with a family member and pet or going to a school football game with friends may be a good distraction. Try making an inspiration board: clip pictures from magazines or find uplifting quotes on Pinterest that align with your future goals. Knowing where you want to be in five months or five years will help you realize how fleeting your worries about applying to college are.

Related: 12 Quick Ways to Reduce Junior and Senior Year Stress

Use spare time wisely during college visits

College application season is filled with campus visits that often last whole afternoons, even entire weekends, depending on the college’s distance from home. Use this dead travel time when you’re stuck in a car, train, or plane to study flashcards or read a few chapters of your assigned English book. If you’re prone to motion sickness, see if you can find your required reading as an audiobook through Audible or your library. Audible has a membership fee, but your library’s downloads should be free. If you’re willing to deal with commercials, you can even access some books on Spotify for free. This is also a great time to feed a stress-relieving hobby or catch up on some sleep during early morning traveling.

Keep a list of ideas for your Common App essay

Try to brainstorm potential essay topics during your junior year or summer before senior year. Discuss these ideas with your parents and teachers to forge inspiration or narrow down your list. When it comes time to write, you’ll have plenty of ideas and won’t have a case of writer’s block two days before the deadline. Also remember that editing your essay is just as important as writing it—and waiting until the last minute to draft your essay leaves no time for thorough editing.

Related: 5 Good Options to Choose for Your College Essay Topic

Schedule time for applications

Try to allot a block of time per week—say an hour every Monday night—to work on college and scholarship applications. For seniors, having even one study hall or senior privilege in your schedule is an asset for getting homework done so you have more time to focus on applications at home. The “divide and conquer” technique, where you work for short periods every week or month, leaves room for procrastination . You’ll produce a higher quality of work if you complete something in an hour rather than spreading it out and letting it weigh on you for a week. Some programs may be time sensitive and may not save work if you log on multiple times.

Assess your daily routine

Most students are concerned with enjoying every minute of high school. This may mean late nights with your friends, the final season of a fall sport, pursuing leadership positions in clubs , working a part-time job, and struggling through a mountain of AP homework. A schedule like this leaves little room for sanity. The popular opinion is to fill your résumé with a variety of activities to display as many of your interests as possible. This lifestyle might work for some, though other seniors may have a nervous breakdown and see grades and relationships suffer. Admitting when you’ve spread yourself too thin is a powerful tool for maintaining your mental health.

Related: Top 5 Time Management Tips for High School Students

Don’t be afraid of burnout—it’s inevitable even for the best of us. In fact, it’s often disguised as senioritis. Change can be daunting, so try to soak up as many opportunities as possible before they’re gone—and with a little planning and assessment, you can adjust all your responsibilities to fit nicely into your schedule. Everything can get done, and you can still have fun. Just remember that enjoying your senior year isn’t a synonym for running yourself into the ground.

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About Paige Miller

My name is Paige Miller, and I am currently a senior in high school who plans on studying at the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University next fall. I consider myself a “chronic dreamer” who hopes to advocate for the betterment of all minority groups.

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The Admissions Strategist

Beat procrastination during college application season: the guide.

The first sign that something is wrong is usually a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach.

You notice that every time the date glows on a phone, you start to sweat. Next, your heart races uncontrollably and your fingers fly across the keyboard in the middle of the night.

You can’t stop thinking about the fact that you called out of work again and you can’t remember if tomorrow is actually Tuesday or Friday.

These symptoms are a clear indication of procrastination — a highly contagious and often (academically) fatal disease that afflicts masses of high school seniors every year during college application season.

In fact, its prominence among students has earned it the nickname Senioritis .

Surrendering to Senioritis before you start your college essays will produce terrible results!

While it might be comforting to know that you are not alone, don’t let that stop you from taking preventative measures to protect yourself.

You can stop procrastination, and you’ll thank yourself in the long run.

Better yet, if you start your college applications early, your senior year will be an unforgettable experience.

It is important to understand that procrastination is a habit caused by a combination of disorganization, failing to prioritize time, and a fear of failure.

Click above to watch a video on how to stop procrastinating during college apps.

The following strategies will help you overcome procrastination, begin your college essays early, and set yourself up for a successful college career:

Charting Deadlines for Smooth Sailing. Deadlines Prevent Procrastination!

Understanding deadlines and preparing accordingly is a crucial part of the college application process.

Deadlines are not a suggestion. They must be taken seriously.

College admissions officers will not look favorably upon your application if you have failed to meet its most basic requirement.

• Failing to follow the rules during college applications implies that you wouldn’t follow the rules once you’re on campus.

Spend time researching colleges and note the deadlines for early and regular admission.

Having these dates and not “figuring it out as you go” will save you time and the stress of scrambling to write a college essay at the last minute.

• For further preparedness, consider also writing down the college essay prompt and word count requirement.
• As you scan these notes later, you can decide which essays will take you longer to write based on that information.
• It’s psychologically proven that writing down deadlines and important info makes it easier to remember them.

Having this chart of prompts and word counts in front of you will save you time and effort — instead of visiting websites with that information, you can conveniently scan your chart without interrupting your flow.

• This is an effective strategy when applying for scholarships as well, since many scholarships require essays that are similar to the Common App or University of California prompts .

Create a chart that organizes all of your deadlines, and keep it somewhere where you will look at it frequently.

This might be taped to your desk, folded up in your wallet, or covering the face of your One Direction cardboard cutout (I’m not judging — you do you).

You can separate your chart by category, but it is important that the dates are organized chronologically. Here’s an example:

As you complete your college essays, mark them off with a pen or marker.

The physical action of checking items off your list is a great feeling! The rush you get is the greatest remedy for procrastination during  college application season .

Success is achieved step by step, inch by inch, so crossing off items will help you visualize success.

Be sure to add every college that you are considering to your chart even if you are not certain you will write the essay.

You don’t want to realize too late that you have missed a deadline and the opportunity to apply.

Save the Date! Announcing the Union of Pen and Paper

Procrastination is a persistent beast, and one way of fighting back is to be equally persistent in staying organized.

• Use a calendar or planner to write down important dates and to schedule writing time for your college essays.

Refer to your deadline chart and make your own (earlier) deadlines for each essay.

In the example above, the early admission deadline for the University of Uno is November 11th, 2017. You might set a personal deadline for November 6th and block out writing time for yourself on November 3rd and 4th.

These self-selected writing times will make sure that you have enough time to brainstorm, write, and edit your essays .

Finishing your essay before the actual due date ensures a high-quality final product and avoids the inconvenience and stress caused by procrastination.

While deciding which days are most convenient for you to begin writing your essay, also consider these questions:

• Do I focus better in the morning, afternoon, or evening?
• In what environment am I most productive? The library? A coffee shop? The kitchen table?

Add these details to your planner and check it before making “fun” plans.

There are going to be times when you’re invited to a baseball game or a movie during writing time, but in order to beat procrastination, you must prioritize and stick to a schedule.

If you have never used a planner, now is a great time to get into the habit.

• You will find it is a useful tool in managing assignments, clubs, sports, work, and other activities in college.

For some students, printing a monthly block calendar is a minimalist strategy for staying organized.

• Other options include detailed daily planners, planners that allow you to set short- and long-term goals, planners with inspirational quotes and questions, and even phone applications that allow you to set reminders.

Whatever organizational tool you choose, be sure to update it frequently and check it every day.

The prospect of writing your college essays becomes much less intimidating when you have your tasks written in front of you.

Grab Your Umbrella! A Brainstorm is On the Horizon

Sitting down to write without brainstorming or outlining an essay is a daunting task.

Use this brainstorming guide during your entire college essay writing process — it’s the best of its kind.

Few students can successfully write a college essay without planning.

• Try brainstorming a list of anecdotes, words, phrases, or ideas related to the prompt you are given.

Don’t worry whether something is a “good” idea. During the brainstorming stage, you are concerned first with getting ideas down on paper.

If you have avoided procrastination, you will not be brainstorming and writing the final draft of your essay on the same day.

This means that as ideas come to you, you can pull out your notes and add them.

You might be surprised by how new ideas marinate in your subconscious and then tug at your attention while walking between classes or driving home from school.

Once you have your ideas on paper, create an outline of the structure of your essay. Even short college essays benefit from this process.

• Do you want to start with an anecdote? Do you know that in the body you want to discuss your experience in a particular club? These are details you definitely want to add to your document.
• Having brainstormed and outlined early in the process of applying to a college greatly cuts down on procrastination.
• Instead of starting with nothing, you have specific and thorough notes to guide your writing.

It’s in the nature of teenagers to skip brainstorming and planning.

Many of your peers will not brainstorm for the college essay — that’s their loss. Make sure you brainstorm, plan, and attack your essays in a meticulous way.

Slow and steady is better than fast and reckless.

Access Denied: Limit Distractions for Focused Writing & Solve Procrastination

Limiting distractions during your writing time is incredibly important.

You can block out as many writing sessions as you want, but if you spend all of your time googling Drake memes and cute puppies, then it is time wasted.

• If you are writing on the computer, consider using a productivity app that blocks websites during a set period of time.
• These apps are often free extensions and allow you to block websites that typically distract you (such as Facebook and Twitter).

Then, you set a time for a certain number of hours, and, no matter what you do, the websites are inaccessible until the timer runs out.

Here are some great website blockers that will help you increase productivity and limit distractions:

• Block Site: Chome Extension

Here’s a good list of website blockers. Reddit, Imgur, Pinterest, and Instagram are informative and/or entertaining, but they won’t help you write your college essays. Block them, for now.

Another strategy for limiting distractions is to draft your essays “old school” with paper and pencil. Be sure to sit away from computers, phones, tablets, and other distractions.

While writing, students often tend to overly rely on Google for ideas instead of using their own creativity.

Trust yourself, you know your story better than anybody else!

• If you’re still having trouble with increasing productivity, despite taking disciplinary measures to limit distractions, listen to interviews or podcasts with prominent people.

These are some great people, interviews,  stories, channels, and publications to check out when you need to step it up:

• Brian Chesky and the AirBnb Story
• Evan Carmichael Top 10 Rules (YouTube)
• Conor Mcgregor motivation videos (YouTube)
• IndieHackers Podcast
• The Oprah Winfrey Story
• Arnold Schwarzenegger
• Mulligan Brothers (YouTube)
• The Jack Ma Story
•  The Howard Schultz Story
• How I Built This Podcast

Collaborative Problem Solving: It’s Okay to Ask for Help

Many times procrastination stems from a fear of failure and/or a feeling of being “stuck” and unable to start writing.

• If this describes you, it is important to reach out for help early in the process of writing a college essay.

If you have written an essay but need some feedback, try asking an older sibling, or even your English teacher to read over your work and discuss it with you.

• You might find that having a conversation about your writing will spark new ideas and help you see your essay from another perspective.
• You might also feel unsure about the requirements of an essay. If this is the case, ask your guidance counselor to go through the essay process with you.
• You can also call the admissions office of a college or university to ask for clarification.

Asking for help and advocating for yourself is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it shows that you are self-motivated and dedicated to producing quality work.

Conclusion: Beat Procrastination During College Applications

Restore your peace of mind by leaving behind late-night panic attacks and mindless Internet scrolling.

By following these tips you can overcome procrastination and submit well-crafted essays to college admissions.

Always remember, the best way to write an effective college essay and flawless college application is to give yourself time. Preparation levels the playing field between you and your competitors.

Lots of smart students procrastinate during college applications. You can get your college essay advantage by starting early and sifting through your best ideas, anecdotes, introductions, and conclusions.

Learn how we can help you with college and career guidance! Check out our YouTube channel!

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College admissions is a stressful process. Here are some tips for managing mental health.

T he college admissions process can be inherently stressful , made worse by decreasing acceptance rates at top schools and high tuition everywhere .

The uncertainty is hard enough on its own: Teens might find it difficult to make decisions when they don’t know what they want to do with their lives, and those who have a plan might feel they lack control of the outcome regardless. The pressure can creep in well before before reaching a fever pitch senior year, when the apps become a daunting task on top of homework, extracurriculars and other obligations.  

Mental health experts want students to know that not everyone experiences college admissions the same way, and some may struggle more than others. It’s temporary, and many elements of the process can be helped through good planning and self-care.

IN-DEPTH: Teen mental health is in the crosshairs of college application season

Here are some tips for managing a difficult application season.

Make a routine

Applicants will likely benefit by mapping out a schedule and writing down personal and official deadlines. From there, breaking the apps’ larger elements into more manageable tasks can go a ways in preventing procrastination, according to therapists at Charlie Health, a mental health provider for teens and young adults.

Seniors might find themselves less stressed in the long run if they make college applications a part of their routine. It helps to structure essay writing and other elements of the apps around existing activities, allotting some time each day or on set days to knock out those smaller tasks one by one, said Katherine Gallagher, a pediatric psychologist at Texas Children’s Hospital.

Don’t overdo it, Gallagher cautioned. Students should stick to the time they have allotted for applications and set them aside when that time is up. Then, start fresh the next day.    

STRESS TO SUCCESS: Read the Chronicle's occasional series on college admissions

Take breaks

Students should schedule fun activities just as much as they schedule their obligations, Gallagher said.

Self-care is an important part of relieving stress. Seniors should try to sleep eight hours a night, move around and make time for things that make them happy, according to professionals with the JED Foundation , a mental health nonprofit.

Avoid comparisons

It’s easy to get discouraged when classmates are achieving higher grades or applying to more elite universities. Those comparisons are unhelpful, and they detract from the reality that the college search is a highly individualized process, admissions and mental health experts have said. Many institutions will provide students with a great education, not just the ones that are most highly sought after.

AN UPHILL BATTLE: A look at the challenges first-generation students face in the competitive college application process

“There are about 4,000 colleges in the United States,” JED Foundation officials said in a blog post. “Although some may have higher name recognition or be harder to get into, that doesn’t mean they’re the best fit for you.”

Seek guidance

School counselors are there for a reason, JED officials said. They want to help students through the college application process, and they can be useful when talking through finances, weighing college options, writing essays or structuring application checklists.

Manage expectations

Many admissions professionals encourage students to make realistic goals and apply to a good mix of schools – ones they know they can get into and ones that are more of a reach. Being prepared for all outcomes can help lessen any disappointment.

Be ready for the annoying questions

JED officials advise students to have a couple stock answers at the ready when people ask them questions that bring anxiety, such as, “Where are you going to school?”

HIGHER ED: Pro tips from college admissions advisors Texas seniors should know

Quickly share the top two or three schools that you hope to attend, or simply say where you’re at in the process. It’s OK to redirect the conversation and say that you’d rather not dwell on the topic.

Parents can help, too

Caregivers should check on the overall wellbeing of their children and not just their application status, according to Consuelo Corazon Cagande, division chief of the Community Care and Wellness Program at Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania. It’s a good idea to aid childrens' self-care by arranging family outings or asking to go on walks, she said.

Parents and caregivers can also help where they’re able in the admissions process, by offering to brainstorm essays or helping set a schedule of priorities, Cagande said in a blog post .

Applying to a college through Early Decision is an excellent choice for many students, especially if they are applying to Ivy League institutions or other highly-selective colleges such as MIT or Vanderbilt University. Whether Early Decision or Early Action are offered varies between institutions and is liable to change over the years. You need to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information.

In this article, we will review key differences between Early Action and Early Decision applications as well as discuss Early Decision 2026 application trends. Read on to see Class of 2026 Early Decision dates and learn everything you need to know to have a successful college application season.

What does early action and early decision mean?

Colleges that allow Early Action and Early Decision programs allow applicants to submit their college applications at a much earlier date. You can usually apply Early Action to multiple schools — unless the school specifies that they offer restrictive Early Action, also known as Single Choice Early Action or SCEA. In contrast, you can only apply to one school through Early Decision. Early Decision is binding for admitted students. If accepted, the student must attend that school.

Because of the benefits offered by applying early, any high school student going through the admissions process — especially minority students such first-generation students and students of color — should understand and consider Early Decision.

What is Early Decision II?

Schools that offer Early Decision may also offer Early Decision II. Early Decision II applications are binding decisions submitted either near or on the Regular Decision deadline. With Early Decision II, you get more time to work on your application than for Early Decision I, and it may increase your chances of being accepted over Regular Decision. You lose the benefits, however, of Early Decision I: Early Decision II will have a lower acceptance rate, and you will still have to apply to other schools through Regular Decision.

Class of 2026 early decision statistics

It’s important to stay current with Early Decision statistics, especially in regards to how they compare to last year’s statistics and the less specified Class of 2026 college acceptance rates. This will help you prepare and plan ahead for your anticipated admissions cycle. Look at the chart below for important information concerning:

• Number of Early Decisions applicants
• Number of accepted Early Decision applicants
• 2026 college acceptance rate for Early Decision
• 2025 college acceptance rate for Early Decision
• Link to each college’s website

Early decision acceptance rates 2026: List of 18 top colleges

Below are the top 14 universities that offer Early Decision and Early Action application options. Review the Early Decision Class of 2026 statistics below to gauge the size of each school’s applicant pool, admission rates, as well as your probability of admittance.

Brown University

The total number of applicants for Brown Early Decision 2026 increased by 11% from last year. Of the admitted Early Decision students, 51% identify as students of color, 17% identify as first-generation college students, and 57% applied for financial aid.

Columbia University

A total of 6,305 students applied to Columbia ED in 2026, compared to 6,435 applicants from its previous admissions cycle. The admit rate increased slightly to 10.3%.

Cornell University

Cornell has opted not to disclose its Cornell Early Decision Class of 2026 statistics until the end of the admissions cycle. The university disclosed, however, that there are approximately 9,500 Cornell Early Decision 2026 applicants.

Dartmouth College

Dartmouth’s ED acceptance rate for 2026 decreased slightly from last year, falling from 21% to 20%. They accepted 530 Early Decision students this year. This will account for about 46% of the incoming class of 2026.

Harvard University

Harvard’s Early Decision acceptance rate increased slightly to 7.9% this year. They accepted 740 of 9,406 Harvard Early Decision applicants.

University of Pennsylvania

Penn received 7,795 Early Decision applications this year, a slight decrease from last year’s Early Decision applicant pool of 7,962. Of these students, Penn admitted 1,218, which will account for approximately 50% of Penn’s incoming Class of 2026.

Princeton University

Princeton University has chosen not to release any Class of 2026 admissions statistics at this time.

Yale University

Yale University admitted 800 Early Action applicants, 11% of a total of 7,288 applicants.

Boston College

Of the 4,443 Boston College Early Decision 2026 applicants, only 1,250 students were offered admission, giving Boston College an 2026 Early Decision acceptance rate of 28%.

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Duke University

Of the 4,015 Duke Early Decision 2026 applicants, only 855 were admitted. This gives Duke a 2026 Early Decision acceptance rate of 21%, an increase from its 2025 Early Decision acceptance rate of 17%.

Emory University

Emory’s 2026 Early Decision acceptance rate decreased slightly from the year before. Their 39% acceptance rate dropped to 37% this year. In total, they accepted 804 Early Decision applicants.

Georgetown University

Georgetown University’s Early Decision acceptance rate dropped from 11% to 10% this year. Of 8,832 Early Decision applicants, 881 gained admission. 

John Hopkins University

John Hopkins University admitted 520 of 2,500 Early Decision applicants this year, giving them an overall Early Decision acceptance rate of 21%.

Northwestern University

Northwestern University admitted 25% of their Early Decision applicants during the Class of 2026 college admissions cycle.

Rice University

Rice University accepted 440 Early Decision applicants during this year’s college admissions cycle.

Tulane University

Due to over-admittance last year, Tulane ED acceptance rate for 2026 has decreased significantly to 10%.

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt’s Early Decision 2026 acceptance rate increased this year from 18% to 24%. There were a total of 2,700 Vanderbilt ED 2026 applicants; of these, 650 applicants were offered admission.

University of Virginia

Of 3,466 Early Decision applicants, 1,097 students were offered admission, granting the University of Virginia a 2026 Early Decision acceptance rate of 32%, a slight decrease from its 33% acceptance rate from the year before.

Early decision 2026 trends

College acceptance rates are currently at a record low. This includes 2026 Early Decision statistics. With the rise of test-optional admission policies , more and more students are applying to top universities, especially Ivy League institutions. Overall, students with average test scores are widening their application reach. This has caused serious applicants to consider early admission programs at higher rates than in previous application Cycles.

Other Class of 2026 college application trends include:

• Higher rates of college deferrals
• Longer waitlists
• An increase in international student recruitment.

Many of these admissions statistics concerning the 2026 incoming class are largely reflective of the social and financial effects of the pandemic. This is important to keep in mind as you review admissions decisions and statistics.

Key takeaways about early decision class of 2026

An essential part of well-planned college admissions is prioritizing and planning out your applications. Starting 

What colleges are extending test-optional policies?

applications early and periodically working on them will ensure a polished product when the deadlines approach. Overall, it is inefficient to work on all your applications around the same time. You want to be able to focus and finish one set of applications so you can fully apply yourself to another.

Then, you need to decide which applications to start early so that some will be ready by the early deadlines. Even if you decide that Early Decision is not the best idea, you may want to still complete some applications by the Early Action deadline. This is a way to pace yourself so you don’t have to scramble during December. If you get accepted through Early Decision or Early Action, you are done dealing with college admissions before the New Year! This will help alleviate some stress as you continue to prepare for college by completing financial aid documents before your enrollment.

Make sure to check the Early Decision deadlines for all colleges you have on your list. As with regular decision deadlines, Early Action and Early Decision vary between schools.

Here are Early Decision Dates for the class of 2026 for some of the top schools in the US:

Remember, this list is not exhaustive. Add the relevant Early Decision Date to your calendar, and good luck!

• September 17, 2021
• 12th Grade , College Admissions

Early Decision 2026: Acceptance Rates for 18 Top Colleges

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What Students & Parents Need to Know About The 2023 College Admission Results

8 trends from the most unpredictable college admissions season ever, the 2023 college admission results are in, and it's safe to say this year was the most unpredictable year in recent history. it was a year filled with excitement for many students and confusion for some students. with an overwhelming number of applications submitted to many colleges and universities, the competition to secure a spot has become more intense., as high school students gear up for the college planning and application portions of their journey to college, it's important to note the eight key trends that have emerged from this year's admission cycle., application inflation, stoked by test-optional.

The Common App reports a 32% increase in college applications submitted to public and private colleges since 2020. This rise in applications has led to a phenomenon known as application inflation , where colleges receive more applications than they can reasonably consider. One of the primary driver of this trend is test-optional policies. Many colleges continue to not require test scores for admissions, a trend that started in 2020 due to pandemic-related challenges and safety concerns. This year, more than 90% of colleges have a test-optional policy, with some making it a permanent policy, such as Columbia University and William and Mary. In 2019–20, 74% of students reported a test score with their college application. In this year's admission season, 43% of applicants included a test score with their application.  The overwhelming majority of colleges accept most of their applicants, so students can benefit by considering a wide range of schools.

THE HARDEST HIT  WERE THE MOST SELECTIVE SCHOOL

Ivy League universities and other selective colleges are now even harder to get into this year, with acceptance rates dropping as low as 3-4%. This is a significant decrease from the previous acceptance rates of 7-8%. This year, Yale, MIT, Harvard, Columbia, Stanford, and Brown all reported admit rates below 5%. The small acceptance rates indicate that top schools now require more than just perfect grades and test scores. It's important for students to explore different colleges when making their college lists, and not to rely exclusively on these prestigious schools.

THE FOCUS ON EARLY APPLICATIONS INTENSIFIED

Applying to colleges with early action and early decision options has become more popular than ever among students. Roughly 50% of applicants apply early, and colleges often fill a significant portion of their incoming class through these early application options. This often means students who apply early have a higher chance of being admitted, as well as a head start in the college decision-making process.

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RECORD-HIGH DEFERRALS

At many schools.

One impact of application inflation has been that many high school seniors are facing the challenge of deferment. This year, many students applied in the early rounds to gain admission in December and January. However, colleges are deferring a significant portion of their applicant pools, leading to frustration and disappointment. Wisconsin deferred 17,000 of its 45,000 early action applicants, while USC deferred about 94 percent of its early pool. Clemson asked almost 15,000 of its 26,000 early applicants to wait for a decision, only rejecting 300.

SUCCESS IN SPORTS DROVE APPLICATION INFLATION AT MANY SCHOOLS

Universities and colleges in the South and Midwest with successful sports teams have seen a dramatic rise in applications, particularly from out-of-state students. The University of Tennessee is a prime example of this trend, with out-of-state applications increased by 51.3% over last year. As a result, the acceptance rates for out-of-state dropped by almost half this year, from 67.2% in 2022 to 33.3% in 2023. For many high school students, having a successful sports program is a significant factor in their decision-making process when choosing which colleges to apply to. It ranks as one of the top three priorities, alongside academics and campus culture, in determining their college list.

THE RISE OF MORE "PUBLIC IVIES"

Getting into state schools and flagship universities has become increasingly difficult, with in-state students facing more competition for spots due to an increase in out-of-state applicants. For example, Georgia Tech, UCLA, and Cal all report admit rates below 20%. Even lesser-known institutions have become more challenging to get into, so students must be strategic when creating their college lists.

We have a unique approach at College MatchPoint. It all begins and ends with our ultimate goal: for our students to thrive in their selected college.

The college application process can feel overwhelming, no matter how strong the student. but at college matchpoint, we believe it should be organized, personal, and even fun, and we provide a framework that reduces the stress throughout the journey.  , the growth of highly selective majors.

This year, the surge in application fueled the trend in highly selective majors at many schools. This means that even if a college has a relatively high acceptance rate, certain majors may have a significantly lower acceptance rate. Popular majors such as biology, business, engineering, computer science, and nursing are among the most highly selective. This makes the admissions process more competitive for students seeking to pursue these majors, requiring them to put forth their best efforts to secure admission.

ACADEMIC & EXTRACURRICULAR ENGAGEMENT TOOK CENTER STAGE

In response to application inflation, colleges have placed an even greater emphasis on the student profile, including their academic transcripts and extracurricular activities. But top grades and test scores alone don't guarantee admission to competitive schools universities. Colleges are looking for sustained, long-term commitment to a particular cause or issue, as well as a clear connection between activities and the student's intended major, particularly for competitive majors such as engineering, computer science, pre-med, and business.

The college admission process has become more competitive and unpredictable due to application inflation, requiring high school students to adjust their strategies. The increased difficulty of getting into state schools and flagship universities, the lower acceptance rates at selective colleges, and the growing importance of extracurricular activities emphasize the need for a diverse college list. To navigate this changing landscape, students must remain adaptable to all colleges on their list, including those that may not have been top choices initially, to create a well-rounded set of options.

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College tour season is about to kick off. Here are 10 tips from college tour guides to have a successful campus visit.

• As spring starts, colleges nationwide will welcome parents and students to tour their campuses. 
• College tour guides want people to arrive on time, ask the right questions, and have fun.
• They also recommend students take the tours on their own, without their parents.

Spring break is right around the corner, and for many high-school students and their parents, that means many will be hitting the road to tour colleges around the country.

To make the most of your visit, Business Insider spoke with college students and tour guides. They know the campuses like the backs of their hands, and they know how to walk backward.

Here are the dos and don'ts of college tours from student guides .

1. Get there with no time to spare, but don't be late.

You won't get points for arriving early, so try to arrive on time. But if you do happen to arrive late , there's no need to worry.

"If something comes up and you are late, ask your guide what you missed once the tour finishes," Skyler Kawecki-Muonio, a senior at Sarah Lawrence College in New York, told BI. "They will happily fill you in."

2. Dress to impress, but don't sacrifice comfort.

It's important to look nice, but you don't have to don a jacket and tie. Tour-goers should put their best foot forward with a sturdy pair of walking shoes , and don't forget to dress for the weather.

"At Fairleigh Dickinson, tours go out rain or shine, so make sure to wear clothes that will keep you warm," Emily Bone, a junior at Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey, said .

3. Don't forget to sign in, but skip the résumé .

Most schools have a check-in desk where you'll receive a campus map and other literature. But don't bother furnishing schools with your portfolio.

"Students can leave their résumés at home," Henry Millar, a senior at the College of William & Mary in Virginia, said. "Tour guides generally do not have any sway in the admissions process whatsoever, so feel free to save the paper."

4. Pay attention on the tour, but do it solo if possible.

Some schools offer to let parents and kids take separate tours, which has advantages.

"Get excited about your child's potential future in college, but give them some space to see what they think of that school on their own," Nathan Weisbrod, a junior at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, told BI.

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Students can comfortably ask questions without a parent present and compare notes afterward .

5. Ask all your questions, but avoid personal interrogations.

This is the time to inquire about any aspect of campus life , and don't feel shy about speaking up.

"Tour guides love getting questions because it allows us to cater the tour, especially in small groups, toward the needs and interests of the families on that specific tour," Halle Spataro, a senior at Bucknell University, said.

But some topics are off-limits, so don't ask your tour guide about their SAT scores , ACT scores , or what they wrote about in their essay .

6. Speak up, but let the student take the lead.

Parents may be tempted to raise their hands again and again, but this tour is about the student, so there should be space to let them shine.

"Try to take the back seat — or the passenger seat — but refrain from driving all of your child's interactions," Julian Jacklin, a junior at Reed College in Oregon, said. "Students who feel they can own that experience usually ask the most questions and engage with the tour more."

7. Say thanks, but don't leave with questions unanswered.

Maybe your guide didn't hear you, or your kid was reluctant to speak up. You can still get the information you want before leaving.

"There's a lot of information students are getting that day and a lot of excitement with being in a new place, which can make people forget to ask certain questions," Lorenzo Mars, a junior at Pepperdine University in California, said.

Therefore, get your tour guide's email address so that you can follow up .

8. You may know exactly what school is right but keep an open mind.

Don't be surprised if a city-living kid is suddenly intrigued by a small-town setting.

"The college search and college experience are all about getting to know yourself better and growing, so on a tour, students have to trust themselves and their judgment of the 'world' they've just stepped into," Thomas Elias, a senior at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania, said .

9. Take in as much as possible, but remember to have fun.

Sure, preparing for the next four years can be scary and stressful. But it's also an exciting milestone, so enjoy the ride.

"These tours serve as great opportunities to learn more about colleges — along with their cities, culture, and people," Connor Gee, a sophomore at the University of Mississippi, said. "Have fun with it!"

10. Weigh the pros and cons of the school, but don't stop there.

Your tour may be over, but you can still learn other ways to immerse yourself in college life .

"See if the school offers additional experiences, like eating in the cafeteria or attending a class," Emily Balda, a senior at Seton Hall University in New Jersey, said. "Consider it 'food for thought.'"

Watch: What new Citadel military college "knobs" go through on day one at the controversial school

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Elite College Admissions Have Turned Students Into Brands

By Sarah Bernstein

Ms. Bernstein is a playwright, a writing coach and an essayist in Brooklyn.

“I just can’t think of anything,” my student said.

After 10 years of teaching college essay writing, I was familiar with this reply. For some reason, when you’re asked to recount an important experience from your life, it is common to forget everything that has ever happened to you. It’s a long-form version of the anxiety that takes hold at a corporate retreat when you’re invited to say “one interesting thing about yourself,” and you suddenly believe that you are the most boring person in the entire world. Once during a version of this icebreaker, a man volunteered that he had only one kidney, and I remember feeling incredibly jealous of him.

I tried to jog this student’s memory. What about his love of music? Or his experience learning English? Or that time on a summer camping trip when he and his friends had nearly drowned? “I don’t know,” he said with a sigh. “That all seems kind of cliché.”

Applying to college has always been about standing out. When I teach college essay workshops and coach applicants one on one, I see my role as helping students to capture their voice and their way of processing the world, things that are, by definition, unique to each individual. Still, many of my students (and their parents) worry that as getting into college becomes increasingly competitive, this won’t be enough to set them apart.

Their anxiety is understandable. On Thursday, in a tradition known as “Ivy Day,” all eight Ivy League schools released their regular admission decisions. Top colleges often issue statements about how impressive (and competitive) their applicant pools were this cycle. The intention is to flatter accepted students and assuage rejected ones, but for those who have not yet applied to college, these statements reinforce the fear that there is an ever-expanding cohort of applicants with straight A’s and perfect SATs and harrowing camping trip stories all competing with one another for a vanishingly small number of spots.

This scarcity has led to a boom in the college consulting industry, now estimated to be a $2.9 billion business. In recent years, many of these advisers and companies have begun to promote the idea of personal branding — a way for teenagers to distinguish themselves by becoming as clear and memorable as a good tagline.

While this approach often leads to a strong application, students who brand themselves too early or too definitively risk missing out on the kind of exploration that will prepare them for adult life.

Like a corporate brand, the personal brand is meant to distill everything you stand for (honesty, integrity, high quality, low prices) into a cohesive identity that can be grasped at a glance. On its website, a college prep and advising company called Dallas Admissions explains the benefits of branding this way: “Each person is complex, yet admissions officers only have a small amount of time to spend learning about each prospective student. The smart student boils down key aspects of himself or herself into their personal ‘brand’ and sells that to the college admissions officer.”

Identifying the key aspects of yourself may seem like a lifelong project, but unfortunately, college applicants don’t have that kind of time. Online, there are dozens of lesson plans and seminars promising to walk students through the process of branding themselves in five to 10 easy steps. The majority begin with questions I would have found panic-inducing as a teenager, such as, “What is the story you want people to tell about you when you’re not in the room?”

Where I hoped others would describe me as “normal” or, in my wildest dreams, “cool,” today’s teenagers are expected to leave this exercise with labels like, Committed Athlete and Compassionate Leader or Environmentally Conscious Musician. Once students have a draft of their ideal self, they’re offered instructions for manifesting it (or at least, the appearance of it) in person and online. These range from common-sense tips (not posting illegal activity on social media) to more drastic recommendations (getting different friends).

It’s not just that these courses cut corners on self-discovery; it’s that they get the process backward. A personal brand is effective only if you can support it with action, so instead of finding their passion and values through experience, students are encouraged to select a passion as early as possible and then rack up the experience to substantiate it. Many college consultants suggest beginning to align your activities with your college ambitions by ninth grade, while the National Institute of Certified College Planners recommends students “talk with parents, guardians, and/or an academic adviser to create a clear plan for your education and career-related goals” in junior high.

The idea of a group of middle schoolers soberly mapping out their careers is both comical and depressing, but when I read student essays today, I can see that this advice is getting through. Over the past few years, I have been struck by how many high school seniors already have defined career goals as well as a C.V. of relevant extracurriculars to go with them. This widens the gap between wealthy students and those who lack the resources to secure a fancy research gig or start their own small business. (A shocking number of college applicants claim to have started a small business.) It also puts pressure on all students to define themselves at a moment when they are anxious to fit in and yet changing all the time.

In the world of branding, a word that appears again and again is “consistency.” If you are Charmin, that makes sense. People opening a roll of toilet paper do not want to be surprised. If you are a teenage human being, however, that is an unreasonable expectation. Changing one’s interests, opinions and presentation is a natural part of adolescence and an instructive one. I find that my students with scattershot résumés are often the most confident. They’re not afraid to push back against suggestions that ring false and will insist on revising their essay until it actually “feels like me.” On the other hand, many of my most accomplished students are so quick to accept feedback that I am wary of offering it, lest I become one more adult trying to shape them into an admission-worthy ideal.

I understand that for parents, prioritizing exploration can feel like a risky bet. Self-insight is hard to quantify and to communicate in a college application. When it comes to building a life, however, this kind of knowledge has more value than any accolade, and it cannot be generated through a brainstorming exercise in a six-step personal branding course online. To equip kids for the world, we need to provide them not just with opportunities for achievement, but with opportunities to fail, to learn, to wander and to change their minds.

In some ways, the college essay is a microcosm of modern adolescence. Depending on how you look at it, it’s either a forum for self-discovery or a high-stakes test you need to ace. I try to assure my students that it is the former. I tell them that it’s a chance to take stock of everything you’ve experienced and learned over the past 18 years and everything you have to offer as a result.

That can be a profound process. But to embark on it, students have to believe that colleges really want to see the person behind the brand. And they have to have the chance to know who that person is.

Sarah Bernstein is a playwright, a writing coach and an essayist.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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The Timeline for College Applications: A 2023-2024 Update

The college application journey marks a crucial milestone in the lives of countless students, indicating a transition toward higher education and fulfilling aspirations for the future. As we embark on the 2023-2024 academic year, the pursuit of admission to esteemed institutions has never been more competitive. Navigating college applications demands careful planning, dedication, and an understanding of the latest trends and updates in the admissions process. In this comprehensive guide, we will unravel the timeline for college applications (A 2023-2024 Update), shedding light on the vital steps, important dates, and essential strategies that students need to secure their place in the college of their dreams. Staying informed about the ever-evolving college admissions landscape is paramount, and this article aims to equip you with the most up-to-date information, empowering you to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead confidently. So, let’s dive in!

How to Navigate the College Application Process 2023

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Research and Create a College List:

Start by looking into colleges and universities that fit your curricular preferences (such as class size, faculty-to-student ratio, etc.), professional aspirations, and personal preferences. Location, campus culture, size, available majors, extracurricular activities, and financial aid opportunities should all be taken into account. List the reach, match, and safety schools you want to apply to. Here is what reach, match, and safety schools mean:

Reach Schools:

Reach schools are colleges where the applicant’s academic profile falls below the average admitted student’s credentials. While it’s a bit of a stretch, gaining admission is not impossible. Applying to reach schools allows students to aim high and potentially gain admission to a more competitive institution. However, it’s important to have a strong application to increase the chances of acceptance.

Match Schools:

Match schools are colleges where the applicant’s academic profile aligns closely with the average admitted student’s credentials. These schools offer a reasonable chance of admission based on the applicant’s qualifications. Applying to match schools provides a balanced approach, as there’s a good chance of acceptance while also aiming for schools that are a good fit academically and socially.

Safety Schools:

Safety schools are colleges where the applicant’s academic profile is above the average admitted student’s credentials. These are institutions where the applicant is very likely to gain admission. Safety schools offer an important backup option and ensure that the applicant has at least one or more schools to attend if acceptance to reach or match schools is not achieved.

Check Application Requirements and Deadlines:

To learn about the prerequisites and deadlines for each college on your list, visit their websites. The essay questions, SAT or ACT requirements, reference letters, and supporting materials may differ amongst colleges. To keep organized, make a list of all the important deadlines.

Prepare for Standardized Tests (if applicable):

If the universities you’re applying to require standardized test results, such as the SAT or ACT , plan ahead of time and register for the exams. Consider attending test preparation courses or using online resources to increase your scores.

Gather Application Materials:

Start gathering all the required application materials early on. This includes any additional paperwork required by each college, such as transcripts, official AP score results, SAT and ACT score reports, recommendation letters, personal statements, and supplemental essays.

Complete the Common Application (if applicable):

Many private colleges make use of the Common Application, which enables you to submit one application to many institutions. If the Common App is accepted by your chosen universities, fill it out completely, paying close attention to the personal essay.

Write Stellar Essays:

Create meaningful, intriguing personal essays that highlight your personality, experiences, and goals. Some school systems, such as the University of California system, have multiple essays that will be sent out to all schools in the system – as a result, these essays will be more generalized and applicable to multiple schools. On the other hand, some schools, like private institutions, may have specific prompts for their school.  If necessary, tailor your essays to the exact prompts of each college and be aware of why you want to attend that school. Get feedback from professors, counselors, or peers to improve your writing.

Request Recommendation Letters:

Request recommendation letters from professors, counselors, or other mentors early on. Choose letter writers who know you well, which will support a stronger letter. Give them enough time to compose the letters on your behalf and submit them. Make sure to express your gratitude to them for their help.

Submit Applications:

Submit your applications before the deadlines provided. Some universities may offer “early decision” or “early action” options with earlier submission dates, so keep this in mind if you want to apply early.

Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships:

Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or any other financial aid application requested by each college. Furthermore, look for and apply for scholarships that fit your qualifications and interests.

Attend Interviews (if required):

Some institutions may require interviews as part of the application process. Research the school and practice potential interview questions to prepare for these interviews.

Wait for Admissions Decisions:

After you’ve submitted your applications, you’ll have to wait for admissions decisions. During this period, stay optimistic while focusing on your academic work.

Compare Offers and Make a Decision:

After getting admission letters and financial aid packages, thoroughly weigh your options. Affordability, academic programs, campus environment, and job prospects are all important considerations. Make your final pick and send your acceptance letter to your chosen college.

Remember, the college application process can be both exciting and challenging. Stay organized, seek guidance from school counselors, teachers, or college advisors, and reach out to college representatives if you have any questions. Good luck with your college applications!

You can always contact Jack Westin’s team of academic consultants for more tailor-made advice during your prep journey.

A Comprehensive Timeline for College Applications for the 2023-2024 Academic Year

Junior year (11th grade).

Fall Semester:

• Start researching colleges and create a preliminary list of potential institutions.
• Register for standardized tests (SAT, ACT) if planning to take them.
• Take a Practice SAT, specifically if your school offers this.
• Attend college fairs and information sessions to gather insights about different colleges. Use this as an opportunity to network. 
• Begin preparing for standardized tests, if applicable.
• Request recommendation letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors.
• Continue exploring potential majors and career paths. Register for standardized tests (SAT, ACT) if planning to take them.

Spring Semester:

• Take the SAT or ACT (if not taken in the fall) and consider taking subject tests if required by your target colleges.
• Review your academic progress and make any necessary adjustments to your course selection.
• Take the SAT or ACT.
• Visit college campuses (virtually or in person, if possible) to get a feel for the environment.
• Prepare for Advanced Placement (AP) exams, if applicable.
• Take Advanced Placement (AP) exams, if applicable. 

Senior Year (12th Grade)

Summer before Senior Year:

• Finalize your college list based on your research and campus visits.
• Start working on college application essays and personal statements.
• Consider applying for summer programs or internships to enhance your profile.
• Complete your application essays and personal statements.
• Gather all required documents, including transcripts and test scores, to send to colleges.
• Register for and take any necessary SAT or ACT exams for the last time, if needed.
• Submit applications for Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) if you have chosen to apply early.
• Continue working on regular decision applications for colleges with later deadlines.
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the CSS Profile for financial aid consideration.
• Begin the online application process through Common App or individual college portals.
• Double-check all application materials and deadlines before submitting.
• Ensure that recommendation letters are sent by recommenders.

Winter Break:

• Take a well-deserved break and celebrate your accomplishments thus far!
• Monitor your email and applicant portals for interview requests and application updates.
• If any schools require transcript submissions, make sure to send those out. 
• Regular decision notifications begin rolling out; be prepared for acceptance, rejection, or waitlist responses.
• Review acceptance letters and financial aid packages to make informed decisions.
• If applicable, submit enrollment deposits by the college’s deadline.
• Notify the colleges of your final decision to attend or decline their offer.
• Inform other colleges that accept you if you will not be attending.

Summer after High School Graduation:

• Prepare for the transition to college life by attending orientation programs and completing the necessary paperwork.

Remember that specific deadlines and requirements may vary for each college, so always verify the dates with the institutions you are applying to. Staying organized, managing your time effectively, and seeking guidance from school counselors will help ensure a successful college application process. Good luck on your journey to higher education!

When to Ask for  Recommendation Letters: A Comprehensive Timeline

The timing for requesting recommendation letters for medical school applications is crucial, and planning ahead is essential. Here’s a suggested timeline:

• Identify potential recommenders: Consider professors, employers, or individuals who can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and character.
• Inform potential recommenders about your plans to apply to medical school, providing them with context on your experiences and goals.
• Schedule meetings with potential recommenders: Discuss your career goals, reasons for pursuing medicine, and any specific experiences you’d like them to highlight.
• Provide a comprehensive packet: Offer your resume, personal statement draft, and a list of key experiences to help them write a tailored letter.
• Follow up with recommenders: Confirm their willingness to write the letters and provide any additional information they may need.
• If applying through a centralized application service (e.g., AMCAS), familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and procedures for submitting letters.
• Officially request letters: If the application system allows, send formal requests to your recommenders through the application portal.
• Provide necessary details: Ensure your recommenders have information about submission deadlines, submission methods, and any required forms.
• Check in periodically: Stay in touch with your recommenders, especially if there are updates to your application or if you need to remind them of specific details.
• Submit your medical school applications promptly: Ensure all components, including recommendation letters, are submitted well before the deadlines.

The 2023-2024 college application season offers an exciting opportunity for your future. Armed with the latest updates and comprehensive tips from this guide, you can confidently embark on your college application journey and find the perfect institution to pursue your dreams. Remember, staying proactive and well-informed throughout the process will ensure your success. Best of luck! 

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