Types of college admission Application strategy - General Application strategy - 12 Steps to Success

Start the college application process.  The entire process will take much longer than you think.  For each college, there is a multiple page application that often includes short answer essays (1 to 2 paragraphs in length), at least one full-length essay (1 to 3 pages), listing of important activities and achievements, listing of high school courses and grades, listing of AP test scores, etc.  You must begin early so you can finish by November to meet early application deadlines.  Equally important, you must start early so you won’t be so stressed from working on applications and essays that your grades suffer in late October and November.  Also, starting early will give you time needed to enjoy high school sports games, Homecoming dances, and other senior year events free from worry about approaching college application deadlines.  Remember to download and print paper copies of applications to fill out by hand before completing and submitting them online.

You need to include the most impressive information in the limited space of college application forms.  Put the greatest emphasis on your academic achievements (which are the most important factor considered by admissions officers).  Also, highlight leadership roles and extracurricular activities.  Try to bring out your uniqueness as an individual and strengths you will bring to the college community.

NOTE:  The MyCollegeCalendar guide uses an Early Action schedule with an application deadline of November 15.  Applying to colleges using an Early Action schedule will allow you to be notified which colleges and universities have accepted you before the December holidays.  Also, an Early Action schedule will provide adequate time for you to apply to additional colleges using the Regular
Decision process, if needed.