Completing applications is the first step before heading to college.
For the high school student or returning student preparing to enter college, the sheer volume of information about college applications and scholarships seems overwhelming. College administrators use entry applications and scholarship applications to evaluate candidates, choosing students they feel will flourish best at their school or who most deserve money to reduce college expenses.
Understanding the best way to tackle scholarships and applications for college helps eliminate wasted time and stress.
College Searches
With hundreds of colleges to choose from, deciding which schools to submit applications for can be confusing. Counselors often recommend applying to five to eight colleges so you'll have a broad choice as decisions roll in. These applications should include colleges where you're likely to be accepted, colleges where you stand a good chance of getting in and colleges that might seem to be a "reach."
Remember that in most cases, you'll be paying application fees, so avoid applying to colleges where you're unlikely to actually attend.
Application Process
These days, many colleges ask students to submit applications online. Prior to applying, take any required SAT tests so you can submit your scores along with applications.
Some schools combine application screenings with in-person interviews; prepare for these by practicing with a teacher or trusted friend.
Before submitting high school transcripts, review them for accuracy and make sure any honors are noted.
Give teachers advance notice if you want them to write letters of recommendation and offer reminders as the deadline approaches. Some teachers may ask for basic biographical information or your resume, if you have one, to help them construct your letter. Don't forget to send thank-you notes to each teacher who writes a recommendation.
Keep a firm eye on deadlines; there's no excuse for missing a college application deadline if you're organized.
College Essay
Some students dread the college essay, but with time, research and organization you can submit an acceptable essay. Write to the prompt, be honest and relay your thoughts in a genuine way to avoid sounding stilted or overwrought. Ask teachers, trusted friends and mentors to review your essay for errors, discrepancies or potential concerns.
Scholarship Searches
Simple online searches turn up thousands of college scholarships available to students, but you don't want to waste time applying to them all. Avoid applying for scholarships for which you don't meet minimum requirements, such as intended college major, grade point average or financial need. Remember that while national scholarships often offer the big bucks, you'll are competing against thousands of applicants, so don't forget to apply for local scholarships.
Scholarship Materials
Most scholarship applications require basic information, including your academic background, extracurricular activities or work history. Targeted scholarships may also ask for evidence of financial need or information about your religious or ethnic background. This might seem like very personal information, but scholarship committees want to take personal life experience into consideration when distributing what can add up to thousands of dollars.
In some instances, you are required to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation or other items.
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