How to get ahead with college applications?

Hi! As a senior, I 100% say to start as early as possible.

I would recommend creating your Common App account now and starting adding schools you're interested in. It would be fantastic to have a least a couple of schools you definitely want to apply to so that you can start writing those college-specific supplementals when they're released on August 1 I believe.

Also start working on your Common App essay throughout this summer. Even if it's horrible, it's super important to just start writing. Especially if a school you want to apply to is rolling admission, you want to get your application submitted immediately since they have more spaces avaliable earlier.

If you're having any trouble understanding the essay prompts that Common App gives or the college-specific supplementals, Collegevine provides guides explaining each one which is super helpful. College Essay Guy also does the same. Let me know if you have any questions!

Hi @youfoundwill!

College-specific questions won't be released until August, but it won't hurt to create a Common App account now and get familiar with the format. You can also preview the personal statement prompts, but writing those won't be a priority until the summer.

Here are some things I would focus on right now:

—Start drafting your school list (including safeties, targets, and reaches). Our Chancing Engine and School List Hub are a great place to begin.

—Register for your SATs/ACTs, and take them this semester if you can.

—Visit colleges and attend college fairs if possible (especially important if you're applying to a school like BU that considers demonstrated interest).

—Pick teachers to write your letters of recommendation, and ask them before the end of this semester.

—Most importantly, make sure you have some extracurriculars lined up for the summer.

Drafting your personal statement right now wouldn't hurt, but I would prioritize the above tasks first. If you want a more in-depth look at the college application timeline, including senior year, check out this blog here:

https://blog.collegevine.com/ideal-timeline-for-the-college-application-process/

Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any questions.