If you’re like most college-bound high school students, you’re probably chomping at the bit to start your college career. And why wouldn’t you? Heading off to college is often one of the most exciting events in a young person’s life. But before you pack your bags, you need to apply to your chosen school first, then they have to accept you, too! The good news? The college application process isn’t as hard as it sounds. It’s a fairly straightforward process and with a little guidance from the college moving pros at Collegeboxes, you’ll feel confident when applying to your dream school.
When Should I Start Applying for College?
This is one of the most common questions college-bound students have. The short answer: it depends on your school’s college deadlines and your goals. But for the most part, you will need to start the process during your senior year of high school – typically in the fall or winter. You may want to start preparing sooner than later. This gives you more time to gather application materials and polish your application essay (if necessary).
Applying later is fine, too. This is called a “regular admission.” The regular admission application deadline is usually around January or February. Check with your potential school(s) for the exact dates.
Types of College Admissions
Did you know there are different types of college admissions? Even more reason to start the process sooner than later – there are a lot of options to consider! The most common types of admissions are early decision, early action, and regular admission. As we touched on previously, regular admission is the most common. With early decision, you apply early, but you may not be able to apply to more than one school at a time, and if you’re accepted, you’re bound to that school. Similarly, early action allows you to apply early, but you don’t have to go to the school that accepts.
When Do College Decisions Come Out?
After you submit your college application, it’s time to play the waiting game. But when exactly will you get an answer? Again, that depends. But generally, college decisions are given not long after the regular admission deadline – often in March or April. If you applied early, you expect an answer earlier as well.
How to Apply to College
Applying to college is easier than ever these days. Most colleges allow you to submit your application online. You will most likely be filling out a common application. The benefit of filling out a common application is that you fill it out once and submit it to multiple schools. This saves you time and money (which your parents will love). Other types of applications include the coalition application and universal application, which aren’t offered at all schools. Your school of choice may have its own application. Be sure to do your research and make the choice that’s best for you.
Other Tips for College Application
- Apply to Multiple Schools – We get it, you have your dream school picked out. In your mind, you’re already on campus. But as the saying goes, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. You might want to apply to as many as four or five schools to be safe.
- Get Everything You Need – Depending on your school of choice, you may need everything from SAT and ACT scores and a letter of recommendation to your high school transcripts and a personal essay. Be sure you know what you need ahead of time!
- Apply for Aid Early – Some financial aid is on a first-come, first-served basis, so you’re more likely to get a larger amount in return if you apply early (and qualify). The Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) accepts applications as early as October in some cases.
Start Your College Moving Journey
If all goes well through your college application process, you’ll be studying at your dream college in no time. When the time comes, get the help you need moving into your dorm room with the college moving experts at Collegeboxes. We offer multiple services that make college moving, storage, and shipping easier for students. If you’re a parent, please visit our Parents page for more information on how to support your child moving to college.