When should you start applying for Colleges?

The Summer

Summer is the perfect time to start the preliminary phases of college admissions bef-ore the turmoil of September rolls around.Schedule tours for any college campuses you haven't seen yet, and make notes that can be used to narrow down your options.Take time to look at the Common Application and start brainstorming some of the subjects you could use for your personal essay or personal statement.Once you have narrowed down your choices, explore their websites to learn the admissions requirements and ask for an application. Make sure your senior class schedule meets all the courses you need to enrol.

From October to January –

You will complete the bulk of the college application process over these four months. To help create a chart of important deadlines to stay on track, it's best to meet with your school's guidance counsellor. Your chances of acceptance will be ruined by an incomplete application, so make sure your college essay is in tip-top shape, request your high school transcript, and send your ACT or SAT scores. If you apply for an early decision, it is likely that by November you will have to complete your entire application.

From February to April –

Now that all the paperwork has been filed, keep your grades high. Letters of acceptance may begin to arrive in February, but do not panic, as many decisions will not be mailed until April. Keep track of all letters of acceptance, letters of refusal, and waiting lists you receive.  If you have earned acceptance from any of the colleges that you do not wish to attend, inform the other applicants immediately as a courtesy. Compare packages of financial assistance, campus features, and academics to help you decide where you're going to register.

If you keep close track of important deadlines and break things down into simpler parts, making it considerably less overwhelming through the college application process. Manage the pressure of applying to college by establishing a relationship with your counsellor, starting early, and taking time to relax. Also, after a few fast-moving months, it will all stop!