The college application process – what students need to know

OXFORD HILLS  — Applying to college can be a daunting process. But taken in steps, it shouldn't overwhelm.

The first thing is to decide is where you would like to apply. Make a list of schools that appeal to you. Make sure that the list includes realistic (academically and financially) options.

It is often suggested that students apply to one to two “reach” schools (where you have a 50-50 chance of acceptance), two to four “mid-range” schools (where you will likely be accepted) and two to three “safety” schools (where you know for sure that you will be accepted and can afford to go).

You can research a school's admissions criteria and financial aid programs on its website. In addition, talk to your guidance counselor or, at OHCHS, the Aspirations Lab Coordinator in C119.

There is no better way to know if you would like to apply to a particular school than to visit its campus. Before you visit, make an appointment with the admissions staff to tour the campus and schedule an interview.

This interview provides a great opportunity to show the college that you are very interested in it and to discover if it is a “good fit” for you. While visiting, have lunch on campus, meet with a coach if you are interested in playing sports at that college, check out the dorms and meet with the financial aid office.

Applications

While hard copies of college applications are available at college fairs and during college visits, most applications are submitted electronically.

For example, the University of Maine System has one application available for online submission that can be used for all Maine campuses.

Be aware that certain methods of application might affect your application fee. Johnson & Wales, for example, does not charge a fee for online applications.

Common Application

Many public and private colleges and universities accept what is called the Common Application.

It is a standard application form which is accepted by approximately 488 colleges and universities in 46 states in lieu of their own application form. Some of these colleges only use the Common Application so there is no choice.

Many colleges use the Common Application and add supplemental essay questions. Applying to Saint Joseph's, University of Maine Farmington and University of Southern Maine?

Just fill out one application and it will be sent electronically to all locations. A list of colleges that accept the Common Application is available on its website, www.commonapp.org.

Should you use it? Colleges like the Common Application because it makes it easier for students to apply to college. That means that students are more likely to apply to their college.

Colleges don’t count it against you if you submit a Common Application. It won’t presume that you are less interested because you used the Common Application. Follow the instructions on the Common Application website to make certain that you do not overlook any supplemental forms required by any of your schools.

Whatever application process you decide to go with, keep yourself organized and make a copy for your records.

Fee waivers

Eligible students can receive college application fee waivers that eliminate or reduce the cost of submitting applications. See your Guidance Counselor for further information.

Admission process

Every college works on its own time line. Most colleges have application deadlines that can be found on their website.

Highly selective schools sometimes have application deadlines as early as November 1. Rolling admission schools review applications as they are submitted – until all slots for enrollment are full.

When applicants have chosen a school as their "top choice," they are encouraged to apply early to secure a place at that school.

Many schools offer both "early action" and "early decision" programs. These terms are quite similar – be careful not to confuse them.

The early decision application process ends with a commitment from the applicant to enroll in that school; all other applications to other schools must be withdrawn. Therefore, only those who are confident in their top choice school should participate in the "early decision" application process.

The "early action" application process does not end in a commitment to enroll and you have the right to wait until May 1 before responding.

UMaine, for example, does rolling admissions, so technically, there isn’t a deadline. However, it suggests filing your application by February 1 so you’ll be in the best position to receive an admission decision in time for full consideration for financial aid and housing.

Its early action deadline is December 15 and its regular admissions deadline is February 1 (recommended). UMaine does suggest that any students interested in being offered merit-based aid apply by the early action deadline.

A college education (one-year, two-year, four-year or military) helps you develop more opportunities in life. Opportunities are good.

Schools provide ample support for students and parents with the college application process. Guidance counselors and the Aspirations Lab Coordinator at OHCHS are there to help. You only need to ask.