PLAN

•  Get information/application forms
•  Decide about regular application decision
•  Decide about early application decision

GRADES

•  Request high school transcript sent
•  Request midyear grade reports sent

TEST SCORES

•  Most colleges recommend that you send scores from tests such as the SAT.  Colleges accept scores only from the testing organization themselves. 
•  Send SAT scores
•  Send AP scores

RECOMMENDATION LETTERS

•  Many colleges and universities require letters of recommendation from teachers, counselor, or other individuals that know you well.  Ask for your references well in advance of the deadlines to write a recommendation for you.  You might want to give them a short list of accomplishments to help them write about you.
•  Request recommendation letter
•  Send thank-you notes or emails

ESSAYS

•  Your essays give you a chance to give admission officers a better idea of your character and strengths.  Proofread your essays carefully before you send them in.
•  Draft your initial essay
•  Proofread essay for spelling and grammar
•  Have two people read your essay
•  Revise your essay
•  Proofread your revision

APPLICATIONS

•  Applying to college is a huge job, but you can make it easier by breaking it down into a series of small steps
•  Complete college applications.
•  Use exact same name on all of your forms.
•  Carefully review entire application.

INTERVIEWS

•  It’s good to have an interview, even if it’s not required.  It shows you’re serious and gives you a chance to connect with someone in the admission office.
•  Interview at college
•  Send thank you notes or emails to interviewers

SEND AND TRACK YOUR APPLICATION

•  Make copies of all application materials
•  Apply online
•  Include application fee
•  Sign application
•  Confirm receipt of application materials
•  Send supplemental material, if needed
•  Mail your institutional aid form, if needed
•  Mail state aid form, if needed

FINANCIAL AID