1. FLIGHT, August 2014 Class of 2015

2. When should I start my applications? To how many colleges should I apply? What are the “pieces” of a complete application? What happens after I apply?

3. When should I start my applications? You should start your applications as soon as possible! Aim to be done by Thanksgiving….you’ll have a happier turkey day! Apply online for most schools Even if an application isn’t “open” yet, you can still work on your essay, obtain letters of recommendation, etc. The UW applications are online as of September 1 Other colleges will vary, but most become available late summer to early fall

4. Use a spreadsheet to organize your applications SCHOOLDEADLINEAppliedPaid feeEssay Letters of Recommen- dation ACT sent Transcript sent Other materials needed? UW Madison2/1 9/15, UW appyes Sent link to teachers on 9/310/310/4 Drake University3/1 10/17 Drake appyes 2 sent10/310/4 Valparaiso University11/1 will use Common App need Requested from teachers on 9/310/310/4 Common App supplement Sample spreadsheet:

5. To how many colleges should I apply? You should have a good mix of reach schools, good match schools and “slam dunk” schools. You should have at least one affordable school in each of your categories Don’t put all your eggs in 1 (or 2) baskets! If you have more than 10 schools, maybe your list needs to be refined a bit more before you apply! Look back at your notes/impressions of college visits. Pay attention to goodness of fit!

6. A Complete Application consists of…. The application, usually online Application fee. Have a credit/debit card handy to do online Transcript Official ACT (or sometimes SAT) score Activity resume (sometimes) Essay (sometimes) Letters of Recommendation (sometimes). Can be helpful if you’re “on the bubble” Common Application schools often require additional essay questions called “supplements”

7. Next steps You could receive a decision as early as a couple of weeks or wait as long as a couple of months Three possible answers….admit, deny or waitlist/defer If you’re still deciding, consider visiting your top schools again. Visit a class or do an overnight visit FAFSA! Begin as early as January 1 st. Most schools prefer to have this by early March. Schools will use this information to put together your financial aid package. Some schools require additional forms. Once you’ve decided, it is time to put down your deposits. National Reply Date….MAY 1 st !!! Don’t forget to send your final transcript after graduation!