Once you submit your masterpiece of an application, what happens to it during the college application process? Here’s a typical path.
• You send in your college application or submit it online. Finger-crossing commences.
• The college creates a file for you as part of the college application process. If you submit a paper application, the college will likely scan it into their database.
• You might receive mail and e-mail from the colleges to which you applied to help you learn more about the school.
• The college might send you a postcard to let you know if any pieces are missing.
• After the college receives all pieces of your application, the admissions counselor for your area reviews your application.
• The counselor might also present your file to a committee. “This is a fun time because I get to tell the committee about you, this awesome student that I have had the pleasure to work with over the past few months,” Gaus says.
• An admissions decision is made, and you are notified.
• You make a decision (and let the college know) by May 1.
• Time to submit a deposit and make sure your financial aid and housing paperwork is completed.
What’s your advice during the college application process?
• "Do not let the admission process scare you. As you interview with schools and counselors, get to know them. Walk around campus and picture yourself walking to class, eating in the dining hall and living in the residence halls. As an alumnus, will you be proud of this institution?" —Rich Gaus Jr., Palm Beach Atlantic University
• Start early! This is the best way to explore all your options and know you are making the best decision.
• Enjoy the moment! Time goes by so fast. Try to enjoy the excitement and best prepare yourself for the journey ahead.
• "Trust your instincts! It all boils down to finding a place where you will be happy and success-ful!" —Lindsay Gerhardt, SUNY Geneseo
• "There are thousands of students enrolled in a college who have all been where they have been. They survived, and you will, too." —Amanda Magdic, California University of Pennsylvania
• "Admissions representatives are just regular people! We are not out to stump you, to prove you wrong or find your weaknesses—we just want to get to know you! Be yourself throughout the college process and things will go much smoother for you, I guarantee it." —Charlie Leizear, The George Washington University