8 Essential Areas for Navigating the College Application Process

Applying to college can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable chunks can help you stay organized and on track. At Mulholland Prep, our rockstar college counselors use “buckets” to help their students address all the different components of the process. Here are the eight essential areas that you need to focus on to build a strong and comprehensive college application.

1. Research

Goal: Develop a balanced list of colleges that match your academic and personal preferences.

Timeline: January – June

Key Tasks:

• College List: Categorize schools using Dov Engelberg’s 5 Levels:

  • Wild Card

  • Reach

  • Target

  • Possibility

  • Likely

• College Profiles: Create profiles for each college, including key details and fit factors.

• Visit Notes: Take notes from campus visits and virtual tours.

 

2. Letters of Recommendations

Goal: Secure strong endorsements from teachers and mentors.

Timeline: March – August

Key Tasks:

• Recommender List: Identify who will write your recommendations.

• Brag Sheet: Provide recommenders with a detailed list of your achievements.

• Recommendation Forms: Complete any specific forms required by applications.

 

3. Writing

Goal: Craft a compelling narrative that highlights your unique experiences, goals, and personality.

Timeline: June – September

Key Tasks:

• Prompts: Common App has already released their 2024 prompts. Supplemental essay prompts for each school will be available after August 1.

• Brainstorming Notes: Jot down initial ideas and outlines.

• Drafts: Prepare multiple drafts to refine your story.

• Feedback: Gather comments and suggestions from teachers, counselors, or mentors.

 

4. Standardized Tests

Goal: Submit standardized test scores that reflect your academic abilities.

Timeline: January – October

Key Tasks:

• Study Materials: Use study guides and practice tests to prepare.

• School Specifics: Some schools don’t take test scores into account. Have that info logged on an active college application tracker..

• SAT/ACT Registration: Confirmation of test dates and registration.

• Score Reports: Collect your official score reports for ACT/SAT and AP exams, if applicable.

 

5. Academics

Goal: Provide a complete and accurate picture of your academic achievements.

Timeline: June – October

Key Tasks:

• Transcripts: Obtain your official high school transcript.

• Course Descriptions: Have descriptions of advanced courses, such as AP or IB classes, if necessary.

• Grade Reports: Keep copies of your latest grade reports.

 

6. Extracurriculars

Goal: Showcase your involvement and leadership outside the classroom.

Timeline: June – October

Key Tasks:

• Activity List: Detail all extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and awards.

• Résumé: Create a formal résumé summarizing your experiences and your unique contributions.

• Portfolios: Prepare portfolios of work, if applicable (e.g., art, music, writing samples).

 

7. Financial Aid

Goal: Maximize your financial aid opportunities to make college more affordable.

Timeline: June – June

Key Tasks:

• FAFSA: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Schools typically have their own FAFSA deadlines, so keep an eye out for those.

• CSS Profile: Submit the CSS Profile for colleges that require it.

• Scholarship Applications: Apply for external scholarships.

• Financial Aid Documents: Gather any additional financial forms required by colleges.

 

8. Application Accounts and Submission

Goal: Complete and submit all application materials accurately and on time.

Timeline: Start early, as the Common Application opens on August 1.

Key Tasks:

• Application Accounts: Set up accounts on Common Application, Coalition Application, and individual college websites where necessary.

• Application Forms: Fill out personal information, education history, and activities lists.

• Application Essays: Finalize your personal statement and supplemental essays.

• Application Fees: Manage payments or request fee waivers.

• Checklist: Use a checklist to track all components and deadlines.

 

By organizing your college application process into these eight buckets, you can ensure that each aspect of your application is given the attention it deserves. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive admissions guidance.