10 things to know before you apply to college

It’s a big step in your life to begin applying to colleges. But before you even begin to choose where to apply, here’s a quick list of important things you need to know.

 

1. The application process was not made to be easy for you

For many students and their families, the process of filling out applications for college and financial aid is very confusing. One big reason for that is because it wasn’t built around your needs. It was created to fit the way colleges and the federal government work. That being said, here are the steps to follow:

 

If that seems confusing, don’t worry. Read through our section on Applying to College, and you’ll know how to deal with it.

2. The price shown on most colleges’ websites is not the price you’ll pay

Point of Confusion! The price on the college website is not the price. (huh?) Here’s why not: colleges give students scholarships and discounts to encourage them to attend, so your price could be lower. Or, your personal expenses may differ depending on transportation to your school, housing prices in the area and other personal factors.

3. Know what you can afford up front.

When you think about college costs and prices during the application process, you can avoid the disappointment (and potential financial danger) of falling in love with a school you can’t afford.

4. Have a family discussion before you apply.

Sit down with your parents/guardians and have a frank conversation about what’s affordable. And remember, you’ll need money for 4 years. A distressing number of students drop out in their senior year because they can’t make the last tuition payment

5. Start applying for scholarships before you apply to colleges

This one sounds strange, but the fact is that some scholarship deadlines end as early as late October, and many end on December 30. You’ll find many scholarship offers open in August, so it’s good to start early – even before your senior year in high school begins.

6. Apply to a wide range of colleges

See our video: “How many schools should I apply to?” And if application fees are a problem due to your family’s income, you may be able to get them waived.

7. Keep some less expensive schools in your mix.

You probably know about having an educational “safety school” where you’re likely to be accepted, but it’s also smart to have a financial safety school you know you can afford.

8. Be a big fish in a small pond.

Many good students want to go to schools that are hard to get into. But if you have good grades and scores, it’s smart to apply to some schools that are less competitive, because those schools might offer you more scholarships to attend there.

9. Apply to some schools in your state.

Many students see college as a way to get away from home. But many states offer scholarships if you go to a school in the state where you live, or you agree to work in the school’s state after graduation. Look for these opportunities on your state’s website.

10. Write your college essay in the summer before your senior year in high school.

Getting your essay done (or close to done) before you begin your senior year in high school could ease some of the pressures of that busy final year.

RELATED TOPICS:

Three things I wish every family knew before applying to college - podcast

Learn more.

How many schools should I apply to?

Learn more.

Helpful sites for applying to college

Learn more.