Module 2: Completing College Applications
Start Early, Stay Ahead
Deadlines come faster than most students expect. Begin researching due dates the summer before your senior year. Create a master calendar that includes:
Application deadlines for each college
Scholarship deadlines (many are earlier than college applications)
FAFSA or TASFA opening dates and priority deadlines
Transcript and test-score submission deadlines
Deadlines for teacher or counselor recommendation letters
Tip: Always verify dates directly on the college’s official website—some schools close applications at midnight Eastern time, not Central.
Create Your System
Everyone organizes differently, but consistency is key.
Option 1 — Digital Calendar (Google, Outlook, or iCal):
Add each college’s name and deadline as a separate event.
Use color codes:
🔴 Red = urgent or final week
🟡 Yellow = upcoming within 2–3 weeks
🟢 Green = submitted/completedTurn on reminders for 1 week before and 1 day before each deadline.
Option 2 — Spreadsheet or Tracker:
Create a simple table with columns for college name, platform (ApplyTexas, Common App), essay status, recommendation letters, test scores, fees, and submission date.
Add checkboxes for “sent,” “confirmed,” and “pending.”
You can link this to your email or calendar for automatic reminders.
Option 3 — Paper Planner or Binder:
Keep printed checklists for each college.
Use tabs to separate essays, transcripts, and letters.
Highlight important due dates and tape them near your desk as visual reminders.
Communication Is Key
Once you submit an application, your work isn’t over!
Check your email frequently—colleges often send portal login information where you’ll track missing materials or updates.
Add those login links to your tracker and note your usernames (but never share your passwords).
Save or screenshot every confirmation page—you might need them later if something doesn’t show up in their system.
Reply to any “missing document” notices promptly and professionally.
Tip: Create a separate folder in your email labeled “College Applications” to store all communication from colleges, FAFSA/TASFA, and scholarships.
The Hidden Deadlines to Remember
Some important dates sneak up on students:
Priority Deadlines: Colleges sometimes give more financial aid to students who apply early.
Housing Deadlines: Many universities assign dorms on a first-come basis after admission.
Scholarship Deadlines: Some close months before the main application—don’t wait!
Testing Deadlines: If you plan to take or retake the SAT/ACT, register early enough so your scores arrive before application deadlines.
Which upcoming deadlines matter most to you right now? How will you make sure they don’t sneak up on you?
Your Progress Matters
Completing college applications can feel like a marathon—but remember, every document you upload and every essay you revise is a step forward toward your future.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times. The key is to start small and stay steady. Break large tasks into smaller ones, check them off one by one, and celebrate each milestone.
You don’t have to do it all alone—teachers, counselors, and us are here to help you stay on track.
Which part of your application process feels most challenging right now? What kind of support—extra time, reminders, or one-on-one guidance—would help you most?
And remember: every time you organize, plan, and prepare, you’re not just applying to college—you’re training yourself for success in college and beyond.
-
Add a short summary or a list of helpful resources here.