OVERVIEW OF THE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS

Now that it is January and current juniors are starting to consider their college options, an overview of the college application process seems timely.  There are many steps in the application process, from standardized testing to essays to letters of recommendation. Many of these tasks require some planning in order to be best prepared.  For example, it is a good idea for students to think about when they want to take their SAT or ACT exam and review their calendar to understand the testing dates to ensure there is no conflict with a target date. Planning ahead will also allow students time to decide how they want to prepare for the test and have the time to devote to preparing. Students also should make sure they allow for the option of taking the test a second time in the event they want to try and raise their scores.

As students begin to develop their college lists, they can start to explore the application requirements.  This will allow the student to understand the essays expected at each school as well as letters of recommendation and other requirements. The essays, depending on how many a student will have, will require time to complete. Letters of recommendation will need to be requested in a timely fashion that is in line with the student’s targeted application deadlines. This resource is very helpful in offering an overview of what students can expect in the coming months, and allow an opportunity to give thought to how each task will be best completed by each student.  This resource offers additional information and guidance.