How to Apply to College

While applying to college may 

seem easy, getting in can be 

tough! 

When you apply for college, you will have to be honest with yourself and do a bit of research to find the right fit. This section is about how to apply to college, and the three steps to take when applying to colleges for the best chances at getting into the best college for you.

Here are the three steps:

Step 1: Making A List Of Colleges To Apply To

With over 6000 colleges in the United States, the first step in applying to college is to do some research and make a college list. This process will be different for everyone. Some students have schools in mind, some know the state they want to live in, and others have no clue where to start.

Step 2: Splitting The List Into Target, Reach and Safety Schools

You will need to take your list, and now decide which are your top picks, which are attainable for you academically, which are affordable for you only with aid (don't discount a school because of price, but if this is a factor have a backup plan), and refine your broad list into a group of schools that gives you the best chance for success. Talk to an admissions counselor at your high school if you have questions about this. Counselors will usually have experience in what schools are a good fit for students with your academic record, test scores and extracurricular activities, and what type of aid your situation may provide. 

Step 3: Completing and Sending Applications to Colleges

Once your list is complete you are ready to apply to college by completing and sending in applications!Remember, the list you create in Step 1, and refine into to include target, safety and reach colleges in Step 2, needs to be ready by December your senior year if you are applying at the regular deadline, or October senior year if you plan to apply early decision or early action. Regular applications are due early January, and early action / decision are due early November, you will need a month (or more) to prepare your applications before sending them.