Applying To Colleges And Universities
Although it is not easy and certainly not always necessary, applying for colleges and universities can be a source of great pride for many people. It is also a way to find out more about different schools and their programs.
Every college has a specific program or curriculum that would be appropriate for the student as well as their field of study or major. Applying does require some effort however, so do your research before you start applying. If you are unsure about how to prepare or what materials to include with your application, this article should help!
Applying For College Applications requires lots of organization and planning ahead:
* Take the time to figure out which schools you are most interested in attending while they're still accepting applications.
* Consider the type of school you would like to attend.
* Think about what you will be applying for – some schools have certain requirements and some don't.
* Think about scholarships and grants that may be available to you.
* Tell your parents about your plans, but with privacy and tact if possible...it's for college people not their summer-camp counselors!
* Learn how to use the internet to apply for schools, fill out applications (and turn them in!) and learn more about school-specific deadlines.
* Be sure to do a lot of research on the schools you apply to, especially if you're applying to top schools and don't know what you will be getting into.
* Learn how much money it will cost to attend this school...will the financial aid work out fine or will you have to get a job to pay your tuition?
* Pack your bags and get ready for leaving home...But be sure to take along your favorite supplies like pencils, pens, sketch pad, etc.
* Remember that if you don't get accepted into a college/university it doesn't mean that you are not smart/talented enough! It just means that there isn't a place for you in this particular program.
* Think about opportunities at home and online to help you continue to grow in your field.
There are a lot of great resources for getting information about schools as well as applying for them. There are also many different ways to apply for school including:
* Apply online and complete the application form. You may have to fill out a personal profile or email a teacher or your guidance counselor if you do not have access at home or school.
* Mail in an application, usually available from the school's website, along with official transcripts of your academic achievement and ACT/SAT scores if required by the school.
* Take a test such as the SAT or ACT with college preparation courses like study skills, reading, writing and more.
* Show up at the school's campus to apply in person, just make sure to check their website for specific requirements before you go.
* Submit an application plus any required supporting documentation through regular mail.
* There are also other programs which may require additional work such as: Early Decision, College Compass, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and more!
http://www.collegeboard.org/student/college-search
http://www.dice360.com/2010/01/my-application-how-to-write-it/.
http://www.colleges.com/college-search/article/choosing-college.aspx
Each college has a different procedure for accepting students. Some require students to file an application online while others want the student to physically go onto the school's campus to apply in person or by mail. In some cases, both methods are acceptable and are encouraged by individual schools. The general application requirements will include the following:
1) Application Fee (can sometimes be waived)
2) Official Transcripts: Be sure that your transcript reflects outstanding grades and credits earned in high school. You may also be asked to submit a copy of your GED certificate if you did not pursue a traditional high school diploma program.
3) ACT/SAT Scores: Most colleges will require either ACT or SAT scores. Some schools are developing their own test to match the needs of their admissions committees, and you may be asked to submit scores from that as well.
4) Letters of Recommendation: Be sure that you have a reference for each school you apply to, unless you are applying with the Common Application. You should ask the teacher for letters of recommendation if he or she agrees to write one for you.
5) Personal Essay: Write about why you want to attend that particular school, and what your goals are.
6) Application Form: Each college and university will have their own set of questions. Be sure to review these carefully before filling out the application.
7) Additional Requirements: You may be asked to submit a list of the courses you would like to take, or a copy of your schedule that includes your classes, tests and any after-school activities you participate in. If you have any health issues or disabilities, be sure to note those on your application as well.
The application process is an important step in finding the right school for you. Some colleges and universities require students to complete their applications online while others require students to submit a paper application through the mail and checklist all materials that are required for admission.
Conclusion:
Some students may feel less prepared than others. However, it is important to remain organized. The application process can be overwhelming at times, but for some it is the start of a new journey that will lead to many more opportunities.
One important thing to consider here is that schools lay out their requirements in advance and make their decision based on those criteria. Once your applications are submitted through the online process don't leave them there! There are several ways you can contact the college and verify your application prior to submitting it, but this usually means contacting someone from admissions or financial aid and getting a confirmation number in order for them to know you have submitted your application.