The next major step of your life is here: it is time to start thinking about applying for college. Looking at all the steps together, this process can feel overwhelming. There is so much to do, and it never feels like there is enough time. The earlier you start preparing for college, the easier the process will be. Here are some guidelines for preparing to apply and, ultimately, applying for college:
Start early.
One of the most important keys to success in the college application process is starting early. These are some steps students should take throughout high school to prepare for college:
- Freshman and sophomore years: Build strong study habits, explore their interests, and volunteer.
- Junior year: Select honors and AP courses, start planning for the PSAT, SAT, and ACT, find summer service opportunities, and start researching colleges.
- Senior year: Finalize a college list, write essays for applications, ask for recommendations, submit applications, and apply for financial aid.
Get guidance counselor and school support.
Guidance counselors are not only there to support your personal growth, but also to help you with academic questions, application strategies, and other forms of college planning. This is a resource for your academic and personal growth. Remember the other resources that are available to you, as well. Student organization advisors and teachers can write letters of recommendation. You can attend college planning sessions and college fairs throughout your time in high school.
Craft a compelling college essay story.
College admissions teams look for students with strong educational foundations and passions. Keep this top of mind when writing your college application essays. Make sure that the stories you use connect with your goals. Consider a throughline that shows growth over time. If it is a strong part of your identity, consider weaving your Catholic faith and values into your essays. Highlight your leadership experiences, both in the classroom and in your extracurriculars. Think about what makes you unique and what could help you stand out from other applicants.
Look into financial aid and scholarships.
Going to college is expensive, especially if you are looking to get into a prestigious school. You may already have a Bright Futures scholarship or a college fund, but it never hurts to see how much of your tuition you can get covered through financial aid. Look for scholarships specifically for Catholic school students, especially if your next step is a Christian college. Fill out a FAFSA application to see if you qualify for federal scholarships or financial aid. To help you keep track of deadlines and requirements, make a spreadsheet with all relevant information about each scholarship and financial aid form.
Learn as much as possible about your options.
The more research you do upfront, the less work you will be doing later to catch up. See which scholarships would make the most sense for you to apply for, and figure out what each one needs. Look into all of the colleges that interest you, and try to narrow down your list to a few you can make plans to tour before you apply. Lean on your community for support throughout the process. Talk to your family and friends, guidance counselors, and other trusted adults when you need help weighing your decisions. If you still feel lost, consider praying about it.
At Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School, a preparatory school near Tampa, we provide students with the resources they need to successfully complete their college applications. In fact, our students often end up at their first or second choice school. Some of the best colleges around the world have Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School alumni as students. Contact us today to learn more about how we set students up for success in college and beyond.
