You're ready to apply for college.
To ease the process you have decided to use the common application.
Great! But, where do you start? College applications can be intimidating, but with a few simple steps you can find the right attack.
It's all about planning and preparedness.
Here are a few ideas to get you on the right track: 1.
Plan Ahead: Before we worry about applications you are going to need to know a few things.
What are the application deadlines for the school you plan to apply to? Once you have this information, plan to have your application in earlier.
If the deadline is July 31, plan to have yours in earlier.
What you are trying to establish is how much time you have to get it all together, and setting a deadline for yourself.
2.
Getting Organized: Now that you know when you're going to apply, it's time to get organized.
Using the Common Application website, find out which forms you will require.
Along with the application, many schools (and some specific programs such as arts or sports) require supplemental materials.
Using the list of schools on the site, gather together all of the forms.
Print a copy of each.
3.
Familiarize Yourself: Read over all of the material that you printed.
Go through it and look for information that you don't know.
Get familiar with the application to get an idea of everything you're going to need.
4.
Write Your Essay(s): You could leave your essays until later.
However, since it is such an important part of the application package, we suggest doing them first.
For the common application you will need to write a short essay about one of your extracurricular activities, and a longer personal essay.
This portion of your application needs careful preparation and planning.
Starting early will allow you to perfect your essays, and make a statement about you.
5.
Get the Required Information and Documentation: Gather together all of the information (that you didn't have in step 3).
If your application requires teacher evaluations, counselor recommendations, or other supporting documents, spend the time to gather all of them.
6.
Make a Draft: By now you should have all of the papers that you need to fill out, and the required documents.
Take the time to fill out the printed copies of the application and the supplements.
7.
Edit Twice: Once you have your first copy filled out, scrutinize your college application.
You don't want something like a spelling error, or any other mistake for that matter, hindering your chances of getting accepted.
Edit your first copy twice to ensure any errors are taken care of.
8.
Applying: Using your printed copy as a guide, and you're now ready to begin the application process.
Many institutions now accept the Common App online.
However you do it, ensure that each application is filled out correctly, and that all required supplements are attached.