The time of college applications has once again come around, and, due to demanding classes and multiple extracurricular activities, it can be easy to forget some steps in the application process. In times like these, a checklist can make things much easier and save you some time.
1. Applications: Make sure you know all the deadlines for your applications (regular, early, and supplemental). If you are mailing your application, it would be helpful to know what time your local post office postmarks its mail. If you are submitting your app online, make sure you know the time zone that the website operates in.
2. Essays: The first step, which you hopefully have completed by this time, is obviously to write the essays. When you are done, try to get at least two people to proofread it and give you some criticism. It could also be helpful to ask your GLC or English teacher for some advice.
3. Financial aid forms: Make sure you know your financial aid deadlines (priority and regular). The above tips regarding postmark time and website times also apply here. Remember to submit your Free Application for Financial Aid (FAFSA) and/or your College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile.
4. SAT scores: These scores must be sent in before the college deadline, but scores that come out after the deadline will still be accepted at some schools.
5. Transcripts: These will usually be sent in by your GLC, but private schools not on the Common Application may have a different policy. Also, UC schools only require transcripts after you are accepted.
6. Teacher recommendations: Teacher recommendations are usually only needed for private schools but it never hurts to double check. As with everything else in your application, this also has a deadline, so make sure you let your teacher know about it. A thank you letter would also be proper for this situation.
Once you get that admission letter, you will be set for the rest of your high school career, but remember that colleges may rescind your acceptance if your final grades are too low, so keep working hard until the end!
