The entire process of applying to college can be extremely overwhelming. Between filling out applications, choosing whom to ask for recommendations, taking the SAT, and remembering deadlines a student can get exhausted. Reading the information below may help you to better understand this process, but it won’t help you to get your applications filled out any faster!

Application deadlines defined-

Rolling Admission
This has nothing to do with that wonderful 70’s rock band. This means that the students are able to apply for admission throughout the year. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis and are accepted until the proposed class is filled.

Early Action
This is a policy that allows prospective students to apply early. If you choose early action you will also be notified of your admission status early, but this process does not commit you to the college.

Early Decision
This admissions policy also asks students to apply early and they will hear about admission decisions early. However, if you are accepted, you are OBLIGATED TO ATTEND THAT INSITUTION. You had better love it!

* If you don’t understand or know an admission deadline..ask!

Why do colleges require letters of recommendation?

These letters often serve to ‘humanize’ the admissions process. The recommendation offers a picture of who you are as a person. Admissions professionals want to know who you are beyond your transcripts. They are interested in learning more about you as a community member.

With this information in mind be sure to select a teacher or counselor who knows you well. Admissions reps are interested in your academic achievements, however, they are also interested in how you interact with others, if you participate in the classroom, or give back to your community. In addition, recommendations help to shed light on any special or unique qualities you may have.

Who? When? How?

Most colleges and universities require 1-3 recommendations. Generally you’d ask teachers and a guidance counselor to write these letters. You may also be able to include letters of recommendation from a coach, employer, and/or a supervisor of a club you belong to. Remember that although grandmothers offer up to write letters quickly, grandmothers tend to be slightly biased! A good time to ask for recommendations is in the fall of your senior year. Give the person you’re asking a general idea of when you’d like it to be done.

How is my application evaluated?

Every college is going to evaluate applications differently. This may depend on how selective or competitive the college is. ‘Open Admission’ colleges require only a high school diploma and accept students on a first-come, first-served basis. At the other extreme are very selective colleges that consider every aspect in the admissions process. These colleges admit only a small percentage of applicants each year. Most colleges fall somewhere between these two extremes. The right college for you is out there!

* Be sure to check with the admission offices at each of the schools you are applying to for specific criteria.

If you’re still unsure of where you should apply. Contact the gurus of college searches at The Center for College Planning 1-800-525-2577.

We’re here to help.