College Application Checklist

Having a list of important tasks to complete for each college application will make the application process go smoothly and help you meet deadlines.

College 1:

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College 2:

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College 3:

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Plan

To fill in all the blanks on the application form itself, you may have to dig up documents or get answers from your parents or guardians. Most students use online applications, but paper applications are usually available too. There are also services that let you complete one application online and submit it to several colleges like the Coalition Application or Common Application.

Grades

The record of the classes you’ve taken, and your grades are important parts of your application. Your high school should send your transcript directly to the colleges you’re applying to. Ask your school counselor how to arrange this. And be sure to check the transcript for errors before it’s sent.

Test Scores

Most colleges require or recommend that you send scores from tests such as the SAT® or ACT. Colleges accept scores only from the testing organizations themselves.

Recommendation Letters

Many colleges require letters of recommendation from teachers or other adults who know you well. Ask your references well in advance of the deadlines to write you a recommendation. You may want to give them a short written summary of your achievements to help them write about you.

Essays
Your essays are a chance for you to give admission officers a better idea of your character and strengths. Remember to proofread your essays carefully before you send them in. Colleges may require more than one essay.

Applications

Applying to college is a big job, but you can make it easier by breaking it down into a series of small steps.

Send And Track Your Application

Once you’ve completed your application, follow these tips to make sure all the parts get to where they’re going.

Financial Aid

College is usually more affordable than many families think, thanks to financial aid. Below are key steps to navigating the financial aid process:

Decision

You’ve received several college admissions offers. Now comes the hard part: Which one do you choose? Find out how to make the best decision for you.

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