How to Apply to College

So it's that time in your life when you are ready to take the next step and get a higher education, right? But just how do you start the college application process? How do you get your hands on the actual application forms? And who is going to help you through this long and somewhat intimidating process?

Never fear. Take a few minutes to read the tips below and you'll be well on your way to that college degree.

Pick Your Colleges
Students should generally submit applications to more than just one college, keeping in mind that sometimes colleges have to turn away very qualified students when they get a large influx of applications for any given academic year. It is best for students to apply to one to four colleges that meet their needs; typically one or two colleges are the "dream" or "target" schools, and one or two additional colleges are the "safe" schools. Do some research about the colleges before applying. And be sure that all of the colleges applied to are in locations you would actually live in, and that the cost/fee structure is one you would be able to handle once you factor in any gift or loan aid that you may use for funding your eduction. Make sure the schools applied to have programs that match your interests. There is no need to apply to a college that you would not actually plan to enroll in; this is just a waste of time and a waste of application fees.

College Application Forms
In order to be considered for admission by a college, you have to submit a college admission application. Some colleges allow students to apply online; others require a paper application. Almost all colleges also require supplementary documentation with the application: high school transcripts with grades and test scores, letters of recommendation, and proof of residency/citizenship papers. Additionally, students may have to answer an essay question or submit a resume or personal statement so that the admissions committee can better judge your application for college admission. Make sure you contact the admissions offices for the colleges you plan to attend to find out which type of application form they require, and what types of supporting documentation they expect you to provide. You will most likely also have to submit an application fee with each application form, so keep that in mind when deciding how many applications to submit.

Timing Is Everything
With college admissions, timing is important. You should find out from the college admissions offices about specific application deadlines. If you have your heart set on attending one particular college, you may want to apply as an "Early Decision" candidate, so be sure to ask for the "early decision" application deadline. Schools will offer this "Early Decision" application period in order to fill a certain percentage of the incoming class ahead of traditional schedules. "Early Decision" students are asked to make a solid commitment, however, to the school, and changing plans at a later date is frowned upon, so only students who are sure about where they want to go to school should use this option. Others can apply within the regular deadline timeframe. Also, some schools will allow late applications, but don't count on this allowance if you are typically just a procrastinator. Most admissions committees will expect admission applications to be submitted on time.

So check out the websites of the schools you are considering, and be sure to jot down the admissions phone numbers and important deadlines for admissions applications. The process doesn't have to be overwhelming if you put in a little research up front and stay organized and timely through the weeks and months to come. The most important part of this journey is remaining committed to your decision to pursue a college degree...and realizing that the benefits of having a college education far outweigh any small inconveniences you face in choosing a college and applying for admission. Good Luck!