How To Apply to College

Applying to college can be a scary process, and one that seems shrouded in mystery.  However, the actual process of applying for college can be broken down into some much more manageable steps.

1. Research colleges. When applying to college, it is important to have chosen which colleges you are interested in.  To avoid spending a lot of money applying to many different colleges, research which colleges have programs that you are interested in.  Don't waste your time on prestigious colleges that you have no interest in at all.  
2. Choose your colleges.   There are a number of criteria to take into account when choosing which colleges get your application.  Avoid colleges that you absolutely know you will not get into because of grades or SAT scores; you don't want to waste your money on application fees when you know you will be turned down.  Similarly, avoid colleges that hold no interest for you but only for your parents or your friends.  It is your education; choose the colleges and universities that you are interested in attending when you are applying to college.
3. Choose your classes in high school. Different colleges have different requirements, so it is important to have an idea of which college preparatory classes you need to take while you are still in high school.  If you have already graduated from college or taken the GED, you should be able to take any required classes at a community college in your area before you apply to college.
4. Take the tests.  Most four-year colleges and universities in the United States require either the SAT or the ACT to be taken.  The score on these tests is one part of the criteria used to determine who is admitted to college, along with grades and extracurricular activities.  There are many SAT preparation classes that can help you get ready for the SAT, which is the more popular of the two tests.
5. Visit colleges.  You can't really know which schools you love -- and therefore, which colleges to apply to --   until you see them.  Visiting colleges can give you an idea of the culture before you apply to colleges.
6. Request information from the colleges.  Colleges and universities are happy to send information to prospective students.  By making one visit or phone call, or sending one email, you can receive a plethora of information on everything from the college's history to extracurricular activities offered on campus.
7. Obtain the college applications.  Many schools now have online applications, although paper ones are still common.  Applications are usually available in the admissions office off the college or university, on their website, or from your high school guidance counselor.  You are now ready to actually apply to college.
8. Check due dates.  Always send college applications in before they are due.  Many colleges and universities, especially the ones that are harder to get into, will not accept late college applications.
9. Fill out the college applications. Many of the applications will be similar, needing your educational history, extracurricular activities, and personal information.  Some will require essays.  It is a good idea to spend time on college admissions essays and get a friend, parent, or teacher to look them over and suggest any changes that may be necessary.  Depending upon the college and your grades, your essay may be an important part of your college application.
10. Check into financial aid.  Some colleges have a box to check on the college application if you would like more information about financial aid.  For others, you have to call the financial aid office.  In order to get federal student aid, you must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA.
11. Pay attention to scholarship possibilities.  Even after applying to college, you should still be on the lookout for scholarships.  Scholarships can be found by web searches, announcements from your high school guidance counselor, and directly from colleges and universities.  After you apply to college, put your energy into finding money for college!

Like many other things, it is less overwhelming to apply to college if you have help from other people.  Whether those people be your guidance counselor, teachers, friends, or family members, getting support and help along the way can make the process seem much less scary.