How to Apply to College
So, you have decided on one or more colleges to which you want to apply?
Now what?
Now what?
|
Complete the Application
Most colleges, schools and universities have an online application. In many cases, there is no fee if the application is completed online instead of on paper and mailed.
Most colleges do have an application fee. If you are eligible for Free/Reduced Lunch, your fee could be waived. Visit with Mr. Flowers, Mr. Ryan, or Mrs. Oleson to get a waiver. Most colleges in Michigan use Common App to receive applications. Make an account here. USE YOUR PERSONAL EMAIL! Check out this video to get started Be sure to enter information correctly and completely. Write legibly. Do not leave any blank boxes or lines. Ask someone else to double check your completion and spelling. Watch a video on how to create your account and order your transcript through Parchment Get Letters of Recommendation
Many colleges require letters of recommendation from teachers or other adults who know you well. Ask your references well in advance of the deadlines to write you a recommendation. You may want to give them a short written summary of your achievements to help them write about you.
For more on getting good recommendations, check out the last page on the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation handbook. Writing a College Essay
When you apply to college, you may need to complete an essay as part of your application. This is your opportunity to show admission officers who you are and to provide information about yourself that didn’t fit in other areas of your application. The essay also reveals what you can do when you have time to think and work on a writing project.
The number one piece of advice from admission officers about your essay is “Be yourself.” The number two suggestion is “Start early.” Check out these other tips before you begin. |
Applying early can be a good idea if you’re sure which college you want to attend. For more on Early Decision and Early Action, click here.
Send Your Transcript
An official transcript is the high school's certified statement of your academic record. All colleges/universities/trade schools will need a copy of your official transcript. BHS uses Parchment to send those transcripts electronically. You will need to create an account at Parchment.com DO NOT use your school email when creating your account. After you have created an account, you will tell Parchment you have attended Buchanan High School. From there, you can order your official transcript to be sent to the college(s) to which you apply free of charge.
To learn more about Parchment and how to use it, click here. Your teachers will do a better job on your letter if they don’t have to rush a letter of recommendation. Give them at least two weeks before the deadline.
File Your FAFSA
File your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon after Oct. 1 as possible. In addition to determining your eligibility for federal funds, many colleges and states use the form when distributing grants, so don’t delay. Watch the mail for your Student Aid Report (SAR)—it should arrive four weeks after the FAFSA is filed. Visit the guidance's FAFSA page to learn more.
|
Top two tips: Be yourself and start early
