What To Do After You Apply To College

So you just pressed ‘submit’ on your college applications–congratulations! Now what? Read below for a list of tips and tricks for what to do after you submit your applications.

1. Set up your applicant portal: Shortly after applying, you will get an email from each college you applied to confirming they received your application and inviting you to create an applicant portal. Set up your username and password (and save them somewhere for easy access!).

2. Check your portal at least once per week: This is where colleges will request any missing or supporting information they need. If a college is missing information, they will expect a quick turnaround from you, which is why you must check in at least once a week. If your application is missing any part of the information it needs to be complete, a college will not consider you for admission.

3. Complete any supplemental materials: While not a requirement at all colleges, some will ask a student to register for an interview, complete a Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR), or a variety of other things. Colleges will notify you about these requirements in the portal.

4. Submit financial aid forms: You will need to complete the FAFSA to be considered for need-based financial aid. This year, the FAFSA will open on December 1. Some colleges use the CSS Profile to determine a student’s eligibility for merit-based financial aid. For a list of colleges requiring the CSS Profile, see here.

5. Check for scholarships: Some colleges will automatically consider you for institutional scholarships and some will require you to apply. If a college requires a separate application for institutional scholarships, they will let you know in the applicant portal.

6. Maintain good grades: Colleges will want to see you continue to work hard in your classes. In the event that you are deferred or waitlisted, your midyear grades can help you stand out!

7. Celebrate your achievement: Applying to college is a big deal! Give yourself a pat on the back, sit back, and take a moment to be proud of your work.