5 Tips to Stay Organized with College Applications

We know the college application process can be overwhelming.  Different schools have varying requirements and deadlines, and it can be hard to keep track of what’s due when.  It’s essential to stay consistently organized and keep everything straight.  That way you can make 100% sure nothing slips through the cracks.  Here are 6 quick tips to help you stay organized:

1. Find out from the start which colleges on your list use the Common Application; you’ll avoid doing extra work.

2. Track all of your application requirements in a master document, like a spreadsheet.  Be sure to include online application user names, deadlines, test scores, recommendations, transcripts and essays.  Make a note when you’ve submitted each.

3. Manage deadlines by using a calendar like Google or Outlook and set it to remind you in advance of next steps.  You’ll avoid a harried scramble at the last minute!

4. Make note of each college’s financial aid requirement, including the CSS Profile, college specific forms and the FAFSA, and track them on your master document along with application requirements.  Every school’s financial aid department entails different deadlines, and meeting them will increase your chances for help in paying for college.

5. File all of your college materials by school so you can refer to them with ease.  Put a checklist at the front of each file with that school’s specific application requirements listed, and check them off as you complete them.

Westface College Planning can help navigate the financial aid process from start to finish.  To learn how we can help you call us at (650) 587-1559 or sign up for one of our Tackling the Runaway Costs of College Workshops or Webinars.

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