Tips for Completing the Application
Make copies of your applications and organize them into separate folders.
Use these copies to draft your application. Then revise your responses and check for spelling and grammar.
Follow instructions exactly.
Each college admissions application is different, so always pay attention to the instructions and deadlines. If you have any questions, ask your college adviser. And don’t be shy about calling the college admissions office directly.
Proofread and finalize your own work.
Then ask your adviser, a teacher or a trusted adult to look over your application to double-check for typos or errors. Even one spelling mistake can make your application seem less appealing than those without mistakes. After making corrections, print out the final version of your application.
Make copies.
Photocopy your complete applications before you mail them out to the colleges. To avoid losing things, store copies in the folders you created.
Common application
Most colleges and universities have their own application for admission. However, some colleges and universities have designed a common application that they all accept.
This means you complete one application form, copy the form and send it to any of the participating colleges. Sometimes these institutions require you to submit additional information or forms. You can download a copy of the common application and get more information at www.commonapp.org. You can also get a copy of the common application form from your adviser.
The Common Application
www.thecommonapp.org
Both the CUNY and the SUNY college and university systems have a common application of their own.
CUNY common application
(212) 997-2869
www.cuny.edu
SUNY common application
(800) 342-3811
www.suny.edu/student
Applying online
Most colleges have Web sites so you can complete and submit your application online. The Web sites allow you to save drafts of your application until you are ready to submit the final version. Be sure you are confident enough with the Web browsers to navigate successfully. Before you begin, try to have uninterrupted access to the computer. Remember to save your work often.
The Web site www.collegenet.com lets you apply to hundreds of colleges online.
Print copies of your online application before you submit it.