Although busy schedules abound for high school juniors, adhering to a timeline can help diffuse both parental and teen anxiety around college planning. Being better informed and equipped will enable students to successfully negotiate the application process and avoid unnecessary stress associated with missed and unexpected requirements and deadlines.
Below is a list of important dates and helpful hints to keep on track:
Winter: The Common Application Announces Essay Prompts
As of Jan. 12, the Common Application has announced that this year’s prompts will be the same as last year’s. Though no action needs to be taken immediately, perusing the prompts and setting them aside is a start. Selecting one is typically an iterative process. The better you know the choices and the closer you come to selecting a topic and writing the essay, the clearer it will become which prompt you are actually addressing.
Spring of Junior Year: Request Letters of Recommendation
Summer for Rising Seniors: Draft Your Essay
In addition to work and vacation plans, allot time for writing -- it will pay dividends. Having time to think, write and rewrite without a time crunch will allow you to be more thoughtful and reflective. Getting started early will also allow you to avoid common pitfalls such as omissions, inaccuracies and bad technique.
Aug. 1: The Common Application Opens
When prepared to start submitting specific college applications, you will click on the College Search tab, find the school, and add it to your list. Generally, there are two categories possible for each school: Questions and Writing Requirements. Supplemental essays are typically found under the Writing Requirements tab, but in some cases, are found in the Questions area. Make sure to check.
Typical Application Deadlines
- Nov. 1 or 15: Early Decision I applications are due
- Jan. 1 or 15: Early Decision II & Regular decision applications are due
- May 1: Deadline to commit for regular decision applicants
Though the college application process may seem daunting, using these step-by-step guidelines can help students not only survive but also thrive.
For more detailed information, visit writeaheadcollege.com.