College Application Strategy for Seniors

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Begin the College Application Process

Start the college application process.  The entire process will take much longer than you think.  For each college, there is a multiple-page application that often includes short answer essays (1 to 2 paragraphs in length), at least one full-length essay (1 to 3 pages), listing of important activities and achievements, listing of high school courses and grades, listing of AP test scores, etc.  You must begin early so you can finish in November 2008 to meet early application deadlines. 

Equally important, you must start early so you won’t be so stressed from working on applications and essays that your high school grades suffer.  Starting early will give you the time needed later in the semester to enjoy high school events free from worry about approaching college application deadlines.  Remember to download and print paper copies of applications to fill out by hand before completing and submitting applications online.

You should include the most impressive information in the limited space of college application forms.  Put the greatest emphasis on your academic achievements (which are the most important factor considered by admissions officers).  Also, highlight leadership roles and extracurricular activities.  Try to bring out your uniqueness as an individual and strengths you will bring to the college community.

There are three different options for completing college applications: the Common Application, the Universal Application, and individual college applications.

NOTE:  MyCollegeCalendar uses an Early Application schedule (also called Early Action ) with an application deadline of November 15, 2008.  Applying to colleges using an Early Application schedule will allow you to be notified which colleges and universities have accepted you before the December holidays.  Also, an Early Application schedule will provide adequate time for you to apply to additional colleges using the Regular Application process, if needed.

The deadline for most college Early Action applications is November 15, 2008.  However, some colleges have a November 1 deadline and a few selective universities have some application materials due October 15, 2008.  Check with colleges you plan to apply to for their specific due dates.