Apply Early - College Admissions can Take Time

The college admissions process can seem a bit overwhelming at first. In fact, many students are so intimidated by the process when they first begin that they put off working on their applications. This can be a very dangerous habit, as it can cause students to fall so far behind that they miss important application deadlines.

The college and university application process does not have to be an unpleasant one. With proper planning and some diligence, it can be an exciting and productive time. To get the most out the experience, try to turn the process into an excuse to do some real thinking about your future. Not only will you find the right college or university for you, but you'll also be able to formulate a long-term plan and set goals for the years ahead.

The most important thing you can do to streamline the application process is to start early. The earlier you begin researching potential college and university programs, the easier it will be for you to complete your applications on time. In the Spring before you apply, you should answer some basic questions about your preferences so that you can start to narrow down your search. Do you want to be a part of a small, medium or large student body? Are you going to be living on campus or commuting from home? Would you prefer an urban or more rural setting? What would you like to study, and which schools have the strongest programs? How much can you afford to pay in tuition, and will you need financial aid? Once you can answer these questions and other that you can think of, you can start to narrow down the colleges and universities that fit your ideal profile. Use college guidebooks from your local library or bookstore, and check out each school's website online.

In the Summer before you apply, you should try and visit as many of the schools on your list as possible. Take tours of the campuses, meet with current students, and sit in on classes if you can. The Summer is also a great time to schedule on campus interviews with admissions officers. By the Fall, your goal should be to have a final list of the schools you want to apply to, and to have obtained an application for each college and university on the list. Organize the applications by the date they are due, and then set realistic goals for completing them.

The task is much less onerous if you schedule it so that you only have to work on one small section of an application every day. If you plan far enough in advance, doing this little piece every day will still allow you to have your applications completed in advance of the deadline.