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For Educators: Military Resources
Preparing for School

Applying to College

Applying to colleges and universities can be stressful — but with a solid game plan, it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve compiled a list of schools you like, organize your options based on acceptance potential — from reach schools where acceptance is tough but possible, to target schools where you’ve got a good shot, to safety schools where your stats exceed the average and you’re (almost) guaranteed to get in.

Application Process

As you prepare to fill out those applications, there are some key things to keep in mind:

  • The Application Form: Most schools will accept applications virtually, using platforms like the Common Application, Coalition Application or even through their websites.
    Official Common App Website
  • Essays: If your selected school(s) require it, you’ll write an essay that reflects your personality and experiences, and how you might benefit the college community.
  • Letters of Recommendation: This is your chance to ask favorite teachers, trusted counselors or even a mentor to pump your tires with relevant, compelling information about your accomplishments and goals.
  • Transcripts: Colleges require official transcripts to review your academic performance, so it's important to keep your grades strong.
    Also remember, schools don’t automatically send your transcript to colleges. You’ll need to request the service through either your school’s guidance office or an online provider.
  • Resume: Some schools may ask for a resume of your extracurricular activities, work experience and volunteer work. Make sure you have one ready and handy.
Young man working on a laptop and taking notes at a desk

How To Write a College Essay

It’s all about being real, telling your story like a pro and ending with impact. We happen to know how you can hook the reader from the start.

How To Write a College Essay

Entrance Tests

Yes, more tests, but they’re a necessary and important part of this process. Why? Simple: your scores help the admissions team make sure you’re a good fit for your school. The most common entrance tests are the SAT and ACT.

  • Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)
    This is a roughly three-hour test that’s divided into two sections: evidence-based reading and writing, and math. The once optional essay section has been discontinued except for in certain states where the SAT is administered in schools on a school day. Colleges, however, do not require it. SAT scores range from 400 to 1,600, and the essay doesn’t impact overall scores.

    Official SAT website
  • American College Testing (ACT)
    This will sound oddly specific, but it’s true: the ACT lasts for exactly 2 hours and 55 minutes and covers grammar and punctuation, algebra, geometry and trigonometry, reading comprehension and scientific reasoning. Each of its four sections is scored on a range from 1 to 36. Your final score will be an average of the four section scores. A separate writing section receives its own individual score.

    Official ACT website
Woman writing in a notebook on her bed with two kittens nearby

How To Prepare for Entrance Exams

Take those practice tests, review weak spots, stick to a schedule, and take advantage of online study tools. And don’t forget to get a good night’s sleep before test day.

How To Prepare for Entrance Exams

Acceptance Decision Deadlines

Most colleges send out decisions between March and April, while early decision (ED) and early action (EA) applicants usually hear back by December. Once you receive your acceptance offer, unless you’ve applied ED, you’ll need to make your final decision on where to attend by May 1, known as National College Decision Day. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions leading up to this deadline. Take time to reflect on the hard work you’ve put in and make a choice that feels right for you. Here's a quick breakdown of important deadlines:

  • National College Decision Day: Mark your calendars for May 1. By this date, you must inform colleges of your final decision and submit your enrollment deposit at the school you choose.
  • Early Decision (ED): Applying ED means you’re committed to attending that school if accepted. It’s a binding agreement, and if you get in, you must enroll. Your acceptance response is due by January 1.
  • Early Action (EA): EA, on the other hand, is not binding. It means you can apply early and find out sooner if you got in, but you don’t have to commit until May 1.

Rolling Admissions: Some colleges review applications as they come in and will let you know their decision fairly quickly (sometimes even in a few weeks). However, if the school requires a commitment, your decision is still due by May 1.

Here’s How to Stand Out To Colleges

College Interviews

Interviews can do a lot to help your application — like giving admissions a chance to get to know you face-to-face and showing that you’re serious about the school. At the same time, they’re also a great way to find out if a school is the right fit for you — so be sure to come with questions. While the approach to interviews can vary by school, there are some consistent types of interviews to be prepared for.

  • Alumni: Conducted by college alumni, these are informal and help give the school a sense of who you are.
  • Admissions Officer: These tend to be more formal and are often part of the complete application review process.
  • Virtual Interviews: More recently, some schools offer or require virtual interviews, especially if you live far away.

Lastly, if you’re prepared and calm, and see your interview as an opportunity to showcase what makes you unique, you’re going to do just fine.

Students laugh and have coffee during a group study session

Insights Into Acing the Interview

How To Prepare for College Interviews
Research the school, practice your answers and have follow-up questions ready. Show your passion and dress to impress — think smart and “business casual.” Lastly, after the interview, don’t forget to follow up with a solid thank-you note or email.
Common College Interview Questions
College interviews? NBD. With the right prep and a few simple tricks, you can nail every question without breaking a sweat. Top five coming up.

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