EXPLAINING THE APPLICATION PROCESS

When you are seeking admission to a postsecondary school, the application process will be part of your life.  Not all institutions use exactly the same process, but there are some aspects of the application process that are common to most. The important thing to remember is that you will be competing with other applicants, and therefore, you will want to adhere to deadlines and complete the process thoroughly.  You can use the information and samples on the following pages to help you prepare for the application process.

• Requesting Information is the first step to pursuing college admission and may be done with a letter or on-line.
  
• The Application is a comprehensive form from a school which you fill out so the school can gather information about you.
  
• The Resumé is a written summary of your educational background, achievements, experience, awards, and so forth.
  
• Letters of Recommendation are letters written about your qualifications.
  
• The Essay is a composition written by you on a topic selected by the school.
  
• Tests:  Most schools require entrance exams such as the ACT or SAT.
  
• Transcripts are required by nearly all postsecondary schools to review courses taken, grades received, attendance, and test scores.
  
• Fees are charged in some cases in the application process for college admissions.
  
• The Interview is a question and answer session between you and the representative of a school.
  
• The Campus Visit is an opportunity for you to gather information firsthand and to experience the campus atmosphere.