College applications
How and Where do i apply?
You can check on a school’s website to see how they prefer you to submit an application. The three most popular websites for applications are Common App, Coalition, and CFNC. Different schools utilize these websites to make applications simpler. Some schools may have you submit an application directly through their website.
Common App: https://www.commonapp.org/explore/
Coalition: http://www.coalitionforcollegeaccess.org/members-new.html
CFNC: https://www1.cfnc.org/Apply/To_College/_default.aspx
You will have to make an account if you use any of these websites. Write down your username and password (storing it in a note on your phone is a great idea)!
PAYMENT
Many schools do require an application fee (typically ranging from $30 to $90) in order to apply. However, this requirement can often be waived if you are experiencing financial hardship. Talk with me about if you qualify and how to receive fee waivers.
Many private schools in North Carolina waive their application fees during College Application Week, which will be October 19th through the 30th. More information will be available later on this opportunity.
When do i apply?
Every school will have different deadlines. The earliest applications will be due around the middle of October, while some schools have deadlines extending into the spring. You can begin submitting applications as soon as they are available, which is typically early August.
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EARLY DECISION: Applying to a school under their early decision deadline means that you are 100% sure that it is your top choice. If you are accepted under an early decision agreement, you must attend. This means that you will often have to commit to the school before you receive a financial aid offer.
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EARLY ACTION: Applying to a school under their early action decision deadline means that you will receive your admissions decision earlier, but you are not bound to attend if admitted.
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REGULAR DECISION: Applying to a school under their regular decision deadline means you will receive your admissions decision within the spring, and are still not bound to attend if admitted.
What do I need?
The application itself will include questions about you, your family, your activities, your school, and your interests. In addition to completing the application, you may also have to submit the following items:
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Transcript(s): HS and community college if applicable
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Test Scores (SAT/ACT): potentially optional for some institutions
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Letter(s) of Recommendation: may have parameters on who to get these from i.e. teacher, community member, coach, etc.
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Essay(s): you can reuse essays for multiple institutions!
Colleges truly want to see YOU. They want to know what you’re interested in, what your strengths are, and what your goals are. Be yourself!
How many institutions should i apply to?
It depends on how many schools you are interested in and could genuinely see yourself attending. You should heavily consider the cost of attendance, location, and how you compare to their average admissions standards. Generally, you should be looking to submit 3 to 5 applications to ensure you have choices when it comes time to decide.
What about community colleges?
Community college applications are completed through CFNC. They typically do not open until late winter, so you can expect to complete them in the spring. There is not a due date or application fee for community college applications.
how do i receive my decision?
First, keep an eye on your email! Colleges will communicate with you via email to inform you if your application is missing any components. Many schools will invite you to create a portal through their website where you can check your status.
Most schools will notify you online first - either through their online portal or by email. You can then expect to receive a letter (and probably a cool envelope!) in the mail about a week later.
