A Complete Guide On College Application In 2024

College applications are the most common buzzword before a semester renewal. From the latest curriculums to university lists, everyone around you feels overwhelmed by what to do when preparing for college. But what many students fall for is making a to-do list of the necessities.

College Application Platforms for Students

Filling out college applications can be quite tedious for students who haven't had their parents or their siblings who have already done the process. As one applies to multiple colleges at the same time, it is quite a time-consuming process to send applications to the colleges you have chosen individually. 

You can always try The Common Application. It is accepted and trusted by more than 900 colleges, some even outside the US. All students need to do is fill out the application once and then just submit it to their chosen colleges. However, not all colleges, like MIT and Georgetown, accept common app. So there is a newer platform which is called coalition application. This is a newer application which is accepted by more than 150 schools, and the Common Black College Application, which is also accepted by more than 60 black colleges, which have historical significance. 

Some Colleges have their own University specific college application systems, like the University of California, which is used by all UC schools. Students can use this to apply to multiple campuses under the University of California with just one application. 

we want to provide you with some great tips for making yourself ready for college. From writing the essay to keeping all vital documents in the correct sequence, here are the top things you should keep with you ready before filling out the college application form and starting your university journey.

Key Components of a College Application 

There are multiple components and aspects to a college application which include things like:-

1.Personal Information 

Students have to provide a piece of basic information about themselves and their family and their previous academic institutions. 

2. High School Transcripts 

As students complete their high school, they must provide transcripts through their high school. A high school transcript is a report of their grades and the courses a student has taken. These transcripts are usually asked by the admissions office through the office of the dean or registrar, or the counsellor.

3. Standardized Test Scores  

Standardized sets like the SATs and ACTs are conducted across the world. These scores are sent by companies to the universities and the students. Key terms to pay attention to include test-blind and test-optional. Test-blind means that scores will not be considered if submitted. By contrast, test-optional colleges do not require ACT or SAT scores but will consider them if submitted as part of an application. SAT score takers are allowed to take 4 score reports for free. After that, they have to pay $12 for each score report. ACT score takers can also take 4 score reports for free, and then they have to pay $16 for each score report. 

Letter of recommendation

Students are required to submit 2-3 Letters of recommendation. These letters are written by teachers and counsellors. These people know you well and can comment on your strengths and help you secure admission. 

Resume- How important is it? 

A resume is a formal document which is submitted by the student and shows their strengths and certifications with their job profile and job history. A strong resume is always appreciated and is also a formal entry into any organisation, which will definitely help you secure college admission and land a job which is beneficial in your field. 

How Much Do College Application Fees Cost?

College application fees are not a set price as they differ from institution to institution, but they usually range from $50 to $90 per application. However, some can even cost upwards of $100 per application in some institutions.

‍How to Prepare for College Applications

1. Start early

It's crucial to start your US college application early due to many reasons. One major perk is having all sets of documents ready for applying. Whether offline or online, US and UK college applications require various deadlines and documents such as essays, recommendation letters, and even test scores like SAT or ACT. You can also keep calendar reminders or search out college websites to thoroughly research beforehand.

2. Create A College List

Creating a US or UK college list before applying in American universities is vital to enhance your chances of getting enrolled. For a simple checklist, you can start by enlisting the top universities against your academic scores and acceptance rates of various universities. Then, you can arrange these against your course choices and their rankings and other parameters, including affordability, student housing, societies, etc.

3. Start the common application prompts

The 2023-2024 cycle will be seen having similar application prompts as those of the last two years. The essay will be singular for all colleges, and that's why you should nail the pin right! Many applications and online tutors help students get the correct set of pointers to add and make great content for their essays. An excellent essay will boost your chances of getting enrolled, so do watch out!

4. Prepare your resume

Preparing college resumes for American universities or even global institutes has been challenging task to overcome for majority of students. The 150-characters limit enables you to brainstorm about your liking, achievements, and activities that define your character. Thus it's easier if you practice and use action words whenever possible.

Another great tip of writing a US college application resume is to quantify your content. Readers are more likely to remember stuff with numbers. This also helps admissions officers learn you more and quickly assess your character.

5. Build a LinkedIn profile

Your LinkedIn profile is yet another innovative way to boost your online presence. A complete LinkedIn account means you mention all basic high school activities, remarkable achievements, and substantial participation.

With more, US and UK college applications also tap into your profile photos and wall posts to ensure a student uses the digital age positively. That's why you can also aim to post photos and videos of public achievements such as those in concerts or writing competitions.

Tip: Following the universities on LinkedIn that you wish to apply for can also be a productive way to look out for the latest circulars or announcements.

6. Apply for scholarships

Under various circumstances, many scholarship providers offer small to higher packages, depending upon your course and its depth. And with many of these scholarships, you would have a better chance at securing smaller local scholarships as fewer might be applying for them. Always read the type of scholarship you want as you apply for scholarships.

You can also start by looking at private scholarships from local nonprofits and businesses. Other organisations you should check include Rotary Clubs, Toastmasters, 4-H, churches, Boy Scouts and local nonprofits. From researching the eligibility criteria to securing one, college scholarships are a great way to start your college journey.

7. Take a MOOC Test

MOOCs (Massive Online Open Courses) help you in building strong knowledge of a wide array of subjects. Sites like edX or Coursera present various types of MOOCs to keep your skills sharp and the knowledge fresh. Many websites offer free courses of niches like technology, data security, and physics too.

Such courses can be completed within a short period of time and require little to no training to start. You can also pay a fee to gain the course certificate and add such courses on your resume for a strong portfolio.

So, here are the top recommendations that you can take on with you for building a strong application. Whilst all of these may require separate steps during such a time as now, we hope we have given you ample arsenal for preparing for college this semester. Now all that's left to do is to go out and give the best you always wanted to do!

How Can I Get a College Application Fee Waiver?

Students who score well on their SATs and ACTs receive college fee waivers. The college boards automatically sent these waivers to students. Students and councillors can send their applications to their colleges for fee waivers. Students can also request waivers through their application platforms like common applications and others.