PLAN

• Make a list of the universities you wish to apply to
• Do research on the institution (majors/degree programs, housing, tuition, honors programs, etc.) using the collegeboard website or any other source
• Take note of regular & early application deadlines
• Try to visit the campuses of the listed universities
• Optional Meet with a College Admissions Counselor at the university to ask questions, receive advice, etc.

ESSAYS

• Draft the required college essays for each university (i.e. Essay A, Essay B, etc.)
• Have friends/family/teachers read your essay & offer advice
• Revise your essays

APPLY

• Apply to each university using the applytexas (in-state, public universities) or the Common App (out-of-state &/or private universities) application (this may take several days or weeks)
• Pay application fee

TEST SCORES

• Send SAT/ACT test scores to each university using the collegeboard website (SAT) &/or the actstudent.org website (ACT)

RECOMMENDATION LETTERS

• Fill out a brag sheet (found in the counseling office)
• Request 2-3 recommendation letters & send to each institution (teacher, counselor, etc.)
• Send high school transcript to each institution using Parchment
• Optional Make a resume of your extracurricular activities, achievements, etc.

FINANCIAL AID

• Fill out & submit the FAFSA (parent aid is necessary)
• Research financial aid/scholarship opportunities
• Apply for financial aid/scholarships
• Confirm TSI readiness
• Confirm receipt of application materials
• If required document missing, submit it immediately (your application is not fully complete until all needed documents have been submitted & received by the institution)
• Once you have submitted your application, track it by activating your account (i.e. MyStatys, goBaylor, etc.)
• Make copies of all application materials for your records

DECISION

• Receive admission letter & financial aid letter
• Compare college offerings & make a decision
• Respond to college you plan to attend & the colleges you decline
• Send deposit
• Send final high school transcript using Parchment

TIPS & ADVICE

• Keep track of all of your usernames & passwords with a notebook (or you will be overwhelmed by the numerous accounts you will have to create).
• Organization is key to survival!
• Don’t be afraid to contact the freshman admissions office at the institution if you have any doubts & questions. This also shows the university that you are highly interested in becoming a student there.
• Work hard & don’t give up, your efforts will be repaid in the end once you accept to attend your dream college!