With all of the hustle and bustle of starting senior year, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. With homecoming, fall sports and homework, it’s hard to concentrate on getting college applications in on time. Narrowing down where to apply and getting started with all of the applications and forms can be a lot for seniors to take on.
Seniors should have their options narrowed down and start the application process by the beginning of October. Applying to three to five colleges is recommended for high school students.
“It really depends on the family financially. Some may be able to apply to only a few,” Lewis-Palmer guidance counselor Gina Zelkin said.
Zelkin suggests that students in the process of applying should apply to a safe school; a school that the student has expected entrance and the family can afford. The other applications should go to a student’s dream school and a few realistic possibilities.
After choosing where to apply, seniors should start to look at what the specific colleges require. The best way to understand the deadlines and requirements is to look on the particular colleges’ websites. If offered, most colleges prefer online applications.
“Know when and how many letters of recommendation are needed. You should view the application and see how many essays you’ll have to write. Know you deadlines.” Zelkin said.
Applications that are turned in early may set students up for priority in the financial aid process. If a student is eligible for scholarships, they will be notified automatically when they get a letter of acceptance.
Also, LP students should take advantage of Naviance, which gives students the opportunity to talk to colleges at college fairs and view scholarship options.
Seniors should try and get all applications in before Thanksgiving break, allowing them to get decisions from colleges before Christmas break. From there, students can start applying for scholarships and financial aid.
The sooner seniors get applications taken care of, the sooner they get to enjoy the rest of their senior year.