Applying to college can feel both far away and right around the corner. With your life filled with activities, maintaining good grades, sports, and maybe even some social time, the college application process can seem like just one more overwhelming task. But with a solid plan, you’ll find that it’s actually manageable—and maybe even a little fun. Think of this as your Big-Sis-How-to Guide to College Apps, where I’ll walk you through everything from setting up your Common App account to picking your college list, navigating financial aid, and more!

Step 1: Sign Up for Common App (or Your Coalition of Choice)

Think of the Common App as your college application HQ. Sign up, fill in the basics (like birthday, family info, etc.), and add the schools you’re considering. The beauty of Common App? It’ll show you each school’s specific requirements and won’t let you hit submit until everything is complete, saving you a last-minute scramble.

Pro tip: Start your Common App account early, even before senior year if you can. Once it opens in August, you’ll be ready to jump right in with the general info filled out, leaving more time to focus on essays and activities later on.

Step 2: Define Your Ideal College Environment

There’s more to choosing a college than just its name or rank. Take time to consider the right environment for you:

Location: Are you into the buzz of an urban campus (think NYU or Columbia) or would you prefer a more classic college-town vibe (like UNC or Williams)?

Climate: Do snowy winters excite you, or is sunny weather more your style? 

Size and Social Scene: Would you thrive at a large university with tons of clubs and big events, or would you feel better at a smaller school where everyone knows you?

If you’re considering schools in non-English-speaking countries or planning on the U.S., think about language, cultural fit, and accessibility to resources as an international student. 

Step 3: Picking Your Application Plan – ED, EA, or RD?

Choosing an application plan is more strategic than you think, it is not just about getting an early acceptace:

Early Decision (ED): This binding option means that if you’re accepted, you’re committed to that school. Deadlines fall around November 1st, and you’ll hear back by mid-December. ED can improve your chances at competitive schools, but only use it if it’s your clear first choice.

Early Action (EA): EA is similar to ED but non-binding, so you can apply early without the commitment. If you want an answer by January but aren’t ready to commit, EA is for you.

Regular Decision (RD): With deadlines around January 1-15, RD gives you more time to work on applications and lets you weigh all your offers come spring.

Mixing Early Action and Regular Decision applications lets you maximize your options without over-committing.

Step 4: Testing – SAT, ACT, and English Proficiency

There are tons of exams you might need to consider doing, and yes, it can be confusing, but here’s the lowdown:

SAT: The SAT tests reading, writing, and math skills. Many schools are currently test-optional, but if you feel you can ace it, go for it. For international students, the SAT cost is around $110. It might seem like a lot for just one exam, but if you get a good grade you might get great scholarships that could make your college journey free!

ACT: The ACT has sections in English, math, reading, and science reasoning, which some students find more straightforward. Take a practice test for each and see which feels better for you. It is around $170, but, like the SAT, it can increase you chances on getting in and getting financial aid. 

English Proficiency Tests: If you’re an international student, you’ll likely need to prove English skills. The Duolingo English Test is a budget-friendly alternative to TOEFL or IELTS, fully online and accepted by most schools. 

Check each college’s requirements to see if they’re test-optional, and plan your test dates accordingly.

Step 5: Financial Aid and CSS Profile for International Students

International students are often eligible for financial aid at U.S. private colleges, though it varies by school:

CSS Profile: This form, used by private colleges, assesses your family’s financial need. Unlike U.S. students, you won’t have access to federal aid, but private schools sometimes offer need-based or merit scholarships.

Need-blind vs. Need-aware: Some schools (like Harvard or MIT) are need-blind for international students, meaning your financial need won’t affect admission. Others are need-aware, where your need might play a role in your acceptance. Sometimes, for need-aware schools, you need to be able to pay around 30-40K per year to be considered in admission. 

File the CSS Profile before each school’s financial aid deadline to maximize your chances.

Step 6: Create Your College List with Reach, Match, and Safety Schools

A balanced list is key! Aim for a mix of schools to keep your options open:

Reach Schools: These are the “dream” schools where your profile may be slightly below average. Apply to a couple of these, but know they’re more competitive.

Match Schools: Here, your academic stats align well with the average admitted student. These are your realistic, achievable options.

Safety Schools: At these schools, your stats are above the average, making them likely acceptances.

Pro tip: Apply only to schools you’d be happy to attend. It’s not about impressing anyone else—it’s about finding the right fit for you.

Step 7: Perfecting Your Common App – Essays, Activities, and Recs

Your Common App is your place to shine beyond grades:

Activities
Use your 10 slots to show your unique interests. Don’t just list your role—explain your impact. Instead of “Volunteered at a local animal shelter,” try “Led a project to create better animal welfare policies, resulting in a 20% adoption rate increase.” Show how your activities connect to your goals. USE NUMBERS TO SHOW REAL IMPACT. 

Essays
Your personal essay is your chance to be memorable. Choose a topic that reveals something essential about you, whether it’s a personal challenge, an achievement, or a passion. You can talk about literally anything. I talked about how I used to go by my second name and now I go by my first one. Remember, your topic can be out of pocket, make sure it connects back to the person you want colleges to see. Let your personality shine through in a way that feels true to you.

Letters of Recommendation
Choose recommenders who know you well. Build relationships with teachers and mentors who understand you beyond academics.

Step 8: Review, Submit, and Stay Organized

Before hitting submit, double-check each application for completeness. Use a calendar to track deadlines for each school’s application and financial aid. Missing these dates can mean missing out on a dream school!

Last Piece of Advice…

Don't choose a school based on status or what other people think- this is your life and your next chapter! Find a place that feels like YOU and remember, you've got this!