Every fall, we feel the rush to complete college applications come through our doors like a strong Autumn breeze. Parents are anxious about deadlines and their child standing out among an increasingly competitive applicant pool. Students feel the pressure of completing not only college applications but crafting carefully curated essays for each school. We know these feelings well. And after many years of helping families navigate the college application process, we also know how to help students conquer the application season efficiently and effectively.

College applications and where to start
One of the biggest tips in completing college applications is to make a plan and start early. At Class 101, we sit down with students as early as eighth grade to identify their interests and strengths and start to explore college options.

Even if you are reading this as a Senior, the best place to begin is at the beginning. Start by identifying your interests, what type of career path you hope to pursue, and research colleges that offer that course of study.

Make a list of 10 colleges and universities that interest you and research their application and scholarship deadlines. Most colleges have an early action application deadline of November 1, while highly selective colleges may hold later application deadlines. Some colleges offer rolling admissions throughout the year but make careful note of their scholarship deadlines which are often in the fall semester.

With your list and timeline in hand, begin working on your applications as soon as possible.

View college applications as your high school resume

While many students think of college application season beginning their Senior year, the best-prepared students know that they are working on their college applications starting Freshman year. Truly.

The best and most effective college application tip we can give is to start thinking about what information you will share on your college application at the start of your high school career.

College applications ask questions about how you spent your time over four years of high school. What kinds of classes did you take and how did you perform? Were you involved in extracurricular activities or sports? Did you take advantage of leadership opportunities or AP courses?

The more you do, the more you can share when colleges want to get to know you. With most
students applying in the fall of their Senior year, that leaves only three years of grades, sports,
clubs, etc. to share with college admissions officers. Make your time count!

Join our Super Junior program
Preparing for college applications early spreads out the work and makes submitting applications a breeze when they go live. We help students do just this through our Super Junior program.

We believe in making the college application process simple by getting a head start Junior year and following a tested and proven process. Students who follow our Super Junior program are guided each step of the way through our pre-application checklist.

Super Juniors will work through the following items over 90 days to ensure they put their
best foot forward when it comes time to hit submit:
● Build a top ten list of colleges
● Visit three college campuses
● Complete a DISC assessment
● Take the SAT or ACT to establish a baseline score
● Analyze trends from the baseline score
● Create a polished and complete resume

Class 101 advisors are experts in college application submissions.

After helping thousands of students complete college applications and earn acceptances to top schools, Class 101’s advisors in Carmel, IN know how to make your college application process smooth and stress-free. Contact us today for more college application tips and to start now!