Final Steps After Submitting College Applications

To many high school students, submitting college applications feels like the final step in a long process. After years of hard work and months of essay writing, clicking “submit” often brings a huge sense of accomplishment.

Students need to remember that there are still some steps they must take to ensure that their application is complete.

Confirm application submission

Students must check their email and login to application portals as directed by each school. This step confirms receipt of your application. It is within each school’s portal that a student can track their application status, see missing materials, and later view decisions.

The portal will verify the application documents as they are received. Students can ensure test scores, transcripts, recommendation letters, and other materials arrive successfully. Additionally, if a student is applying to a portfolio or audition-based program, the portal will be the source of communication about those extra but essential steps.

Keep track of the portal addresses, login usernames, and passwords in a spreadsheet or password manager. Managing this information can become overwhelming quickly!

Monitor and manage communications

It is the student’s responsibility to check email regularly. Colleges may contact applicants about missing items, interviews, scholarships, or updates.

Make sure to respond promptly and professionally to any requests for more information! If you are unsure what is being requested, reach out to admissions officers for clarification.

Complete financial aid documentation

If you haven’t yet done so, file the FAFSA (and CSS Profile if required). Some colleges will not award merit aid without financial aid documentation on file. Submit any institutional financial aid forms colleges may require for institutional aid disbursement.

Prepare for interviews (if applicable)

Some schools offer or require interviews. Ensure you have done your research about the school! It is useful to practice common questions and be ready to discuss your interests and goals. If you have the opportunity to submit a Glimpse interview, remember that schools are more interested in learning about YOU, not the accomplishments they will learn from other parts of your application.

Keep grades up

Your senior year grades matter, even if you applied early to schools. Your first semester grades may be considered if you are deferred to Regular Decision. Colleges can rescind offers if your senior year performance drops significantly.