College Applications - Frequently Asked QuestionsQ: When should I start preparing my college applications?
A: It's a good idea to begin preparing during your junior year of high school. Use this time to research colleges, explore programs and majors, review admission requirements, prepare for any required tests, and begin building your college list. By the start of senior year, you should be ready to begin completing applications.
Q: What is typically included in a college application?
A: Application requirements vary by college. Depending on the school, you may need:
- A completed application
- High school transcripts
- Personal essays or supplemental essays
- Letters of recommendation
- A list of activities, work experience, and achievements
- SAT or ACT scores, if required or if you choose to submit them
- Additional materials required for certain programs or majors
Always check each college's admission requirements before applying.
Q: What is ApplyTexas?
A: ApplyTexas is an application platform used by students to apply to participating colleges and universities in Texas. The application requirements and deadlines vary by institution, so review the requirements for each college before submitting your application.
Q: What is the Common Application?
A: The Common Application, or Common App, is an online application platform that allows students to apply to multiple participating colleges and universities using one application. Students create a profile, add colleges, provide application information, complete required essays and other materials, and submit applications according to each college's requirements and deadlines.
Q: How do I choose someone to write a letter of recommendation?
A: Choose someone who knows you well and can speak specifically about your academic work, character, activities, leadership, or other strengths. Depending on the college's requirements, this could include a teacher, counselor, coach, employer, or another appropriate recommender. Ask well in advance and provide the person with the information they need to write a thoughtful recommendation.
Q: How many colleges should I apply to?
A: There is no single number that is right for every student. Consider colleges that fit your academic interests, career goals, finances, location, campus environment, and other priorities. Make sure you understand each school's admission requirements, deadlines, and costs before applying.
Q: What is Early Decision?
A: Early Decision (ED) is an application option that is generally binding. If you are admitted under an Early Decision agreement, you commit to enrolling at that college, subject to the terms of the agreement. Students should carefully understand the financial and admission implications before applying Early Decision.
Q: What is Early Action?
A: Early Action (EA) allows students to apply earlier than the regular admission deadline and may allow them to receive an admission decision earlier. Early Action is generally non-binding, meaning students are not required to attend if admitted. However, policies vary, so check the specific college's requirements.
Q: What is Rolling Admission?
A: Under Rolling Admission, colleges review applications as they are received and continue making admission decisions throughout their admission period. Deadlines and procedures vary by college, so applying earlier may be important. Always check the college's specific admission timeline.
Q: Are SAT or ACT scores required?
A: It depends on the college. Some colleges require SAT or ACT scores, while others are test-optional or have different testing policies. Requirements can also vary by program, scholarship, or applicant type. Check the current testing policy for every college you are considering.
Q: How important are personal essays?
A: If an essay is required, it gives you an opportunity to share information about your experiences, interests, goals, and perspective that may not appear elsewhere in your application. Follow the college's instructions and focus on writing an honest and thoughtful response.
Q: What should I include in my personal essay?
A: Your essay should answer the prompt, reflect your own experiences and perspective, and be written in your own voice. Focus on meaningful experiences, what you learned from them, and information that helps the college understand you as a student and individual. Proofread your work before submitting it.
Q: How can I strengthen my college application?
A: Focus on completing the requirements for each college carefully and on time. This may include:
- Maintaining strong academic performance
- Taking appropriate courses
- Participating in activities, work, service, or other meaningful experiences
- Completing required essays
- Requesting recommendations early
- Meeting testing requirements, when applicable
- Reviewing your application carefully before submitting it
Q: What if I can't afford the application fee?
A: Some colleges offer application fee waivers for eligible students. Fee waiver eligibility and procedures vary. Check the college's admissions website, the Common App or ApplyTexas, and speak with your school counselor about available options.
Q: When will I hear back from colleges after applying?
A: Admission decision timelines vary by college and by application plan. Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision, and Rolling Admission may have different deadlines and notification timelines. Check each college's admission website and application portal for its specific dates.
Q: What should I do after receiving my admission decisions?
A: Once you receive your admission decisions:
- Review your admission offers and deadlines
- Compare financial aid and scholarship offers
- Review the total cost of attending each college
- Visit campuses or attend virtual events when possible
- Review housing and orientation requirements
- Check enrollment and deposit deadlines
- Make your decision and complete the required enrollment steps by the college's deadline
Important: Admission, financial aid, housing, orientation, and enrollment deadlines may be different. Check each college's requirements carefully.