College Application Resources
Welcome to our College Application Resources page! Here, you’ll find essential tools, tips, and timelines to navigate the college application process effectively. Whether you’re just starting your journey or finalizing your applications, these resources will help you stay organized and confident.
Free Online Resources
1. Academic Support and Test Preparation
- Khan Academy
Free SAT prep and academic resources for a variety of subjects. They also offer personalized practice based on your PSAT/NMSQT scores.
- College Board
Official SAT, AP, and college planning resources, including a free college search tool.
- ACT Academy
Free resources and practice tests for students taking the ACT.
2. College Research Tools
- BigFuture by College Board
Explore colleges, compare costs, and find scholarships tailored to your interests and academic profile.
- Niche
Honest student reviews, rankings, and data to help you find colleges that match your goals.
- College Navigator
A government tool that provides detailed statistics about colleges, including tuition costs, graduation rates, and more.
3. Financial Aid and Scholarships
- FAFSA
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to access grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
- Scholarships.com
Discover thousands of scholarship opportunities and learn how to apply effectively.
- Fastweb
Personalized scholarship matches and financial aid advice.
Key Deadlines and Timelines
Junior Year
- Spring: Start researching colleges and visiting campuses. Take the SAT/ACT and AP exams if applicable. Begin building your college list.
- Summer: Work on your resume, brainstorm essay topics, and research scholarship opportunities.
Senior Year
- Fall:
- Finalize your college list.
- Complete early decision/early action applications (typically due in November).
- Request recommendation letters from teachers and counselors.
- Take final SAT/ACT tests if needed.
- Winter:
- Submit regular decision applications (deadlines typically in January/February).
- Complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile for financial aid.
- Spring
- Review acceptance letters and financial aid offers.
- Visit colleges if needed before making your final decision (National Decision Day is May 1).
Tips for Staying Organized
- Create a Master Checklist: Include deadlines for each school, test dates, and scholarship applications.
- Use a Calendar: Track deadlines and set reminders for essays, applications, and financial aid forms.
- Keep a Folder for Each School: Store application materials, notes from visits, and correspondence with admissions offices.
- Seek Feedback: Share your essays and application drafts with mentors, teachers, or college counselors.
Additional Information
Letters of Recommendation
- Request recommendations early, ideally in the spring of your junior year or fall of your senior year.
- Provide teachers with a list of your achievements and any specifics they should highlight.
Essays
- Start brainstorming and drafting essays during the summer before your senior year.
- Use tools like Purdue OWL for writing tips and formatting help.
- Make sure your essays reflect your personality, experiences, and goals authentically.
Extracurricular Activities
- Focus on depth, not breadth. Colleges prefer sustained commitment and leadership in activities you’re passionate about.
- Document your roles, achievements, and impact in each activity.
Have Questions?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or need personalized guidance, we’re here to help! Reach out to us through our Contact Us , send us a message on social media, or fill out the form under the "Get Started" button on the home page and get a free 30 minute free consultation with us!