College Application Process

1. College Application Process Presented by: Plattsburgh High School Counseling Department Preparing for the Future

2. Step 1: Narrow down the choices… • Think about which colleges you would like to apply to (three is a good number to begin with) • Arrange to meet with admissions counselors and take a campus tour (if possible) before you commit to applying. • You may also want to look at the college or university online for more information about the majors offered, size, location, extra-curricular activities and more. • You may also want to check the schools’ website to get information about admission requirements (SAT scores, GPA requirements etc…).

3. Step 3: Meet with your counselor… • Your School Counselor is here to help you!! A School Counselor can… • Help you narrow down college choices. • Assist you in applying for college (if you have questions about the application). • Help you determine a major for college, if still undecided.

4. Step 4: Obtain Applications • You will need to request an application from your colleges of choice to fill out and return. • Some schools post applications online • Be sure to alert your School Counselor if you plan to do so. • SUNY Application (Online)

5. Step 5: Teacher Recommendations • You will need to obtain the Teacher Recommendation form online or in the School Counseling (Guidance) office. * You need 3 teachers to complete this form ***Be sure to ask well in advance * Your counselor will write a letter of recomm- endation for you too.

6. Step 6: Write Your Resume • A resume is an organized list of information about your academic, volunteer/extra-curricular, and work experiences. • Colleges do look for well written resumes, as this is another way to explain your many talents, abilities, and experiences. • For more information on resume writing, please see the resume writing section of the School Counseling (Guidance) department website.

7. Step 7: Fill out the application… • Complete all section of the college application (do not leave section blank). • Read carefully to make sure you answer each question correctly. • Be sure to include any documents that the college requires. • Be sure to begin the application far enough in advance so that you do not miss the deadline to apply. • Early Decision and Early Action Deadlines • Regular Deadlines

8. Step 8: Complete the essay portion… • Some schools (but not all) require a writing sample/essay portion of the application. • Be sure to write the essay well in advance so that you have time to get English teachers and counselors to help proofread your work. • Be sure to meet the guidelines of the essay (word limits, font types and sizes, spacing, margins, etc…). • You can find essay writing resources in the “College Bound” section of this website.

9. Step 9: Consult with your Counselor to make you’re your application is complete. • The counselor can look over the application and check to see if all sections are complete and make sure you have all the appropriate attachments (transcript, letters of recommendation, resume, and an essay (if required).

10. Step 10: Submit the Application • Give the application to your School Counselor (with application fee). • Please make your counselor aware if you plan to submit your application online.

11. Step 11: The Counselor will… • Update the transcript • Attach Teacher Recommendations • Attach a letter of recommendation • Double check the Application • Complete the School Counselor Section • Mail the application • Verify Date of Submission

12. Step 12: Wait for the Acceptance Letter!! • Unless your student is applying for early decision- most colleges begin sending letters of admission in January. • Letters should include a summary of a financial aid package (you will learn more about this). • Once you get a letter of acceptance, begin thinking about completing the FAFSA, and college preparation.