When it comes to applying for college, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of requirements, deadlines, and advice out there. From crafting the perfect personal statement to choosing the right extracurriculars, the process can seem like an endless checklist. But here’s the truth: building a great college application isn’t about perfection—it’s about preparation and authenticity. To help you get started, we've put together a short guide on how to build a winning college application.
An Important Reminder When Applying to College
There are millions of checklists online to remind you when to submit your college essay, how many letters of recommendation you should have, and what test scores are best to get into colleges and universities. But there's more to it than that.
One of our biggest tips for anyone applying to college is to be your authentic self. Don't lose yourself in the midst of submitting all the things colleges require. Instead, highlight what makes you different and lean into your individuality. Too many students try to fit into a perfect mold of what they think a college admissions officer wants and blend into the crowd rather than standing out. So don't be afraid to be yourself—it's one of the best ways to ensure that you find the right fit for your future.
Our Winning 7-Step College Application Guide
While college applications occur during senior year, that doesn't mean you can't start exploring your options during junior year or even earlier. Beginning the college search early will give you plenty of time to plan and build a winning application. Once you have a list of schools that you're interested in, you can do some research and start putting things together. To help you better understand what to expect, here's everything you need to know about the college application process.
1. Begin Filling Out Common Application Questions
Every college and university you apply to will have a general application that you need to fill out. This typically includes some logistic information, such as:
Your full name, address, and date of birth
Parent or legal guardian information
High school information, including your counselor's contact details
Intended major or area of interest
Start with this. While filling out your basic information is simple, it can help you get motivated to apply for college and avoid missing the application deadline. Plus, completing the "easy" sections early ensures you’re not rushing to finish when deadlines get close.
Start with this. While filling out your basic information is simple, it can help you get motivated to apply for college and avoid missing the application deadline. Plus, completing the "easy" sections early ensures you’re not rushing to finish when deadlines get close.
2. Highlight Your Extracurriculars
Many colleges include questions about extracurricular activities in this section as well. Extracurricular activities are one of the best ways to demonstrate what you're passionate about and show a well-rounded personality. They allow colleges to see who you are outside of the classroom. Some tips for building a great extracurricular resume include:
Focus on a few meaningful activities that align with your interests rather than spreading yourself too thin across too many.
Aim for roles that show leadership or initiative.
Choose activities that you can commit to.
Stay consistent with your activities throughout your junior and senior years.
Remember, extracurriculars can include clubs, sports, volunteer work, internships, part-time jobs, and even independent projects—anything that shows how you’ve spent your time outside class.
3. Request a Copy of Your High School Transcripts
Colleges use your transcript to evaluate your academic history. They typically include your GPA, class rank, and course rigor. Start this process by contacting your high school counselor to request copies of your transcript.
If your GPA isn’t where you want it to be, don’t panic. Admissions officers will review each semester and will appreciate trends and improvement over time. If you’ve shown growth, such as steadily improving your grades from sophomore to senior year, highlight that in your essays or interviews. You can also explain any dips during specific high school years, especially if you experienced significant life events. Your essay and personal statement are great ways to complement your transcripts.
Your grades and test scores are also important factors when applying for scholarships or financial aid for multiple schools, so make sure you send your transcripts to everyone who needs them.
4. Start Asking for Letters of Recommendation
Another thing colleges want to see is strong letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation are an opportunity for people in your life to highlight your work ethic and personality traits. Typically, these letters will come from teachers, mentors, high school counselors, or supervisors. Some tips to help you with your letters of recommendation include:
Choose Wisely — Ask teachers who have seen you grow academically, such as those who taught you in challenging subjects or in classes you excelled in. Coaches, club advisors, or volunteer supervisors are also great choices.
Ask Early — Give recommenders at least a month’s notice to write thoughtful, personalized letters.
Provide Helpful Information — Share a list of your accomplishments, favorite subjects, and goals. This can help recommenders write specific and compelling letters that highlight your strengths.
5. Draft Personal Statements and Application Essays
Your personal statement or essay is your chance to speak directly to admissions officers and showcase who you are beyond your grades and test scores. This is where you can bring your application to life and tell your story. Every school will typically ask for a personal statement, and many schools may also want a "why essay." Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Find Your Unique Angle — Choose an experience, challenge, or moment that shaped who you are. Be specific and focus on what you learned or how you grew.
Write With Your Voice — Be genuine and authentic—this isn’t the time to use big words or sound overly formal in an effort to impress the admissions team. Let your personality shine through.
Edit and Revise — A great essay rarely comes together on the first try. Write multiple drafts, ask for feedback, and proofread carefully.
Colleges want to understand who you are and what makes you different, so don’t shy away from sharing your unique perspective. Here are a few more tips on how to write a good college essay.
6. Check Requirements for Standardized Test Scores
While many schools are now test-optional, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) can still play a role in your application. Therefore, it's important to research school policies well ahead of schedule, so you have time to schedule, study for, and complete the necessary test. Typically, taking the SAT or ACT in junior year is recommended, as it gives you time to retake it if needed. You can use practice exams, prep courses, tutoring, and college counseling to help you get the most out of your standardized tests.
7. Confirm the Deadline for Financial Aid Information
Finally, everyone understands that the cost of college is an important consideration. Therefore, we always recommend submitting financial aid forms like the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or the CSS Profile to ensure you’re considered for scholarships, grants, and other aid. Some schools may also offer direct academic scholarships based on GPA, which can be combined with other forms of financial aid.
Looking for More Guidance During Your College Application Process?
Building a winning college application takes time and effort, but the results are well worth it. If you're feeling stuck or want even more guidance for a successful college admissions process, partner with a college counselor today.
At College Choice Counseling®, our counselors and tutors help you with college counseling, college essay and application help, test prep tutoring, and academic subject tutoring. Reach out … we’ll help you succeed!
Comments