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What is the whole process of applying to university?
I will be a senior next year, but I’m still not sure about the application process.
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Martha’s Answer
Hi Jiaqiao - it is great that you are asking this question now - I have added a link below to a comprehensive description of the college admissions process. Here are some things I recommend doing soon:
- If any of the colleges/universities you are interested in require standardized tests, plan when to take them. You don't have to take both the ACT and SAT so complete practice questions for both to see if you have a preference. Students often take them (the first time) during the Spring of their junior year. Start preparing for them in January so you will be familiar with the different types of problems. If you are taking any AP courses, you will be taking AP exams in May so don't plan to take the SAT at the same time.
- Start to develop your criteria for selecting colleges to apply to. Your school may have a resource like Naviance or the College Board has FutureForward.
- Look at the Common App essay prompts - see link below. While a question or two may change from year to year, they usually don't change much. Write down if any question seems easier to answer than others and what you may want to write about
- Schedule group information sessions and tours at a few campuses. Visiting is important to help you determine what you are looking for and to demonstrate your interest. It can be confusing if you cram all visits into senior year.
Good luck!
US News - https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/college-application-process
Common App prompts - https://www.commonapp.org/blog/common-app-announces-2024-2025-common-app-essay-prompts
- If any of the colleges/universities you are interested in require standardized tests, plan when to take them. You don't have to take both the ACT and SAT so complete practice questions for both to see if you have a preference. Students often take them (the first time) during the Spring of their junior year. Start preparing for them in January so you will be familiar with the different types of problems. If you are taking any AP courses, you will be taking AP exams in May so don't plan to take the SAT at the same time.
- Start to develop your criteria for selecting colleges to apply to. Your school may have a resource like Naviance or the College Board has FutureForward.
- Look at the Common App essay prompts - see link below. While a question or two may change from year to year, they usually don't change much. Write down if any question seems easier to answer than others and what you may want to write about
- Schedule group information sessions and tours at a few campuses. Visiting is important to help you determine what you are looking for and to demonstrate your interest. It can be confusing if you cram all visits into senior year.
Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps: