What To Do After Submitting College Applications?
As the frenzy of college application submissions winds down, many students and their families breathe a sigh of relief. While this is indeed a significant milestone, it is important to remember that the journey is far from over. Now, it is time to shift your focus towards the next steps in the college admissions process. Here is a quick guide on what to do after submitting your college applications.
1. Check Your Email: Your email inbox is about to become one of the most important tools in your college admissions journey. Admissions offices will use email to communicate with you, so check it regularly. Respond promptly to any requests or inquiries, and ensure your email address is professional and reliable.
2. School Portals: Most colleges have dedicated portals or websites for applicants. After submission, make sure to log into these portals regularly. They may provide updates on the status of your application, missing documents, or even decision notifications. Staying informed is crucial so you can update with additional documents.
3. Regional Representatives: It's a good idea to have a list of regional admissions representatives for each school you've applied to. These individuals can be valuable contacts if you have questions or need assistance. Building a rapport with them can make a difference, especially if you're trying to address specific concerns or provide additional information about your application.
4. Mid-Year Grades Matter: Don't let senioritis get the best of you. Mid-year grades, especially for advanced courses like AP classes, are essential. Strong performance in these courses can help you advance more quickly in college and avoid getting bogged down in introductory prerequisites. This can translate into a lighter course load during your first semester, easing your transition into college life.
5. Reassess Fit and Finances: As acceptance letters start rolling in, take a moment to reassess your choices. Consider factors like campus culture, financial fit, distance from home, access to transportation, and availability of essential resources. Your priorities may have shifted, and it's important to make an informed decision.
6. Connect with Current Students: If you're interested in learning more about a specific college, reach out to us. We can help connect you with former clients who are currently enrolled at that institution. Hearing firsthand experiences from current students can provide valuable insights into campus life and what to expect.
7. Financial Aid Forms: Complete your financial aid forms, including the CSS Profile and FAFSA, as soon as possible. Meeting the deadlines for these forms is crucial to secure financial aid. Keep in mind that some colleges may have additional forms or requirements, so double-check each school's financial aid application process.
8. Early Decision Considerations: If you applied Early Decision (ED) to a college and have been admitted, you must withdraw all other applications. Make sure you understand the binding nature of ED and speak with us if you have any doubts or concerns about this commitment.
9. Official AP Scores: If you applied Early Decision, make sure to send your official AP scores to your chosen institution. For those who are still deciding, you can hold off on sending scores until you've made a final decision on which college to attend.
The post-application period can be just as crucial as the application process itself. Stay vigilant, proactive, and organized. Keep a watchful eye on your email and application portals, maintain good academic performance, and reassess your college choices as you receive admission decisions. By following these steps, you will be well-prepared to embark on the next steps of this exciting college journey.