Collect Information and Materials

• Get a copy of your high school transcript from Student Services or be able to access the transcript from FOCUS. Make sure you also know your ACT/SAT Scores.

• Have a detailed resume or list of: work experience, clubs/activities, honors/achievements, community service, etc.

• Basic parent/guardian information & educational level.

• Letters of recommendation (from your counselor or teachers).

• Reconsider starting a new email specifically for colleges. Make sure you choose a simple and professional email (i.e. mrsgordon@gmail.com vs coolcounselor@gmail.com).

• Plan your college essay.

   

Know the Colleges Where you Want to Apply

• Make a list of colleges you will apply to. Generally, you should apply to about 5-8 colleges, including at least 1-2 dream/reach colleges, 1-2 target colleges and 1-2 likely colleges. 

• Organize specific information needed for each college.

• Make special notes of individual college deadlines/requirements.

• Decide which college application platform(s) you want to use: individual college websites or Common Application

• The Common App is an application template that over 1000 colleges accept.

Apply EARLY

• The Common Application opens August 1st. The Common App 2024-2025 writing prompts are available NOW. Lots of great information/tips/resources are on their websites. Check them out.

• 2024-2025 Common App essay prompts

• Common App

• Common App Ready  Complete How to Toolkit

• Start writing your essay and make sure you have your English teacher proofread it before you submit it. The essay is a huge factor in college acceptance. See Helpful Links below.

• Colleges have gotten so competitive and the best chance of getting accepted is applying early. Many schools have early admission deadlines set for October 15 or November 1st. Early admission also helps you be considered for any eligible scholarships.

• Click link for more info on different college deadlines College Application Deadlines for Fall 2025 Admission.

Check your Email and Application Status Regularly

• Make sure to check your email for messages from schools. Sometimes they will ask for additional information. If you fail to respond, you can often miss your opportunity to be accepted.

Know the Decision Day Process

• Know the dates for each college decision announcement and how they will be communicating if you have been selected to attend their college.

• College Essay Writing Resource

• More College Essay Information