If you are thinking of going to college whether as a new high school graduate or an adult student, there are some things that you should consider to make the transition smooth. Consider these tips that show you how to plan for college.
Get Your Applications in Early
As soon as you know where you might want to go to college, get your applications in as soon as possible. It is not unusual for the best colleges to receive thousands of applications for first-year students. However, they may only accept a few hundred students. Even if your grades are stellar and you have high SAT or ACT scores, don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. It is likely that you will get wait-listed which means you probably won’t be entering during the fall semester. Determine when the college of your choice begins accepting early applicants and get your application in with the early birds.
Apply for Scholarships
Like college admissions, applying for scholarships can be competitive.
Start writing personal statements and essays early because you can use many of them for different applications. Also, contact people that you will ask for recommendations to let them know that you will need their help. It may be difficult to get those letters if you wait until a week before you need them. Don’t take any scholarship opportunity for granted. There are organizations that offer scholarships that they never award because students do not apply for them. Remember that no scholarship is too small. Even a $500 scholarship can pay for some of your books or software.
Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid can be completed online and is what colleges use to determine if you qualify for grants, loans, and certain scholarships. You can indicate which colleges you want to receive your FAFSA. The financial aid offices at those institutions will have what they need to help you plan for paying college expenses.
Visit Your Campus
It’s so easy to take virtual tours of college campuses that some students may not visit the campus until they arrive for the semester. However, making a trip to campus can help you become familiar with the layout and the area where the college is located.
Grades Matter
If you are a high school junior or senior or adult student, you have probably completed most of your college prep coursework. If you are a freshman or sophomore, keep in mind that you are competing with thousands of other students who want to get into college. It’s never too early to take challenging courses and to do your best!
