College Application Readiness Audit

Before college-bound juniors embark on a summer of drafting college essays and otherwise working on their college applications, we have some suggestions to ensure students are prepared for that process.

To evaluate college application preparedness, consider the following SIX critical components: the college list, standardized tests, career exploration, recommendations, college visits, and self-reflection.

ONE: The Balanced List

Make sure a college list only includes schools that are the right fit (academic, social, emotional, physical, and financial) and that it is balanced (i.e., includes enough schools to ensure multiple options). Typically, we do not recommend applying to more than 10-12 schools. However, students planning to apply to several reach and/or long-shot schools should adjust accordingly. Regardless, a balanced college list contains colleges from the following four categories:

• Likely: you feel reasonably assured that you will be admitted
• Target: you have a decent chance of acceptance, but it’s not a done deal
• Reach: you have a shot, but statistically, it is improbable
• Long-Shot: it is highly unlikely you will be admitted

💡Expert Tip: Learn how to make a balanced college list by clicking HERE

TWO: The Standardized Test

By this time, juniors should know whether the SAT or ACT is the better-fit test, should have a score goal, and should be working on a strategic plan to achieve that goal. Additionally, it is more important than ever to understand the role of standardized tests based on individual characteristics, goals, and context. Understand who should consider submitting a test score by reading Test-Optional Admissions: When to Submit a Test Score

💡Expert Tip: Click HERE to learn how to assess whether the SAT or ACT is the better-fit test.

THREE: Career Exploration

With a bachelor’s degree costing between $100,000 to $320,000 or more, college is expensive. Four-year graduation rates at only 39.8% signal that the onus is on students to ensure they are prepared to attend college and graduate on time. Spending time and resources to gain a sense of academic and professional direction helps students graduate on time and save money.

💡Expert Tip: To learn more about how and why to explore careers before going to college, read Six Reasons to Explore Careers BEFORE Applying to College

FOUR: Teacher Recommendations

Since most college applications are submitted before the end of the first semester of senior year, junior-year teachers typically make the strongest recommenders. Ask teachers in person and follow up with a thank you email. Teachers are busy and will write about you several months after teaching you. Make the job easier by providing them with personal reflections on the class and a resume. Consider sending them a gentle and thankful reminder–containing everything needed to personalize the recommendation–once applications are submitted.

💡Expert Tip: Select two core-class teachers who can speak favorably about academic strengths, work ethic, and personal qualities.

FIVE: College Visits

While visiting many colleges before applying may not be feasible, there is no substitute for touring college campuses while the students are there. Since most students leave for summer break from early May to June, look for opportunities in the coming weeks to tour campuses. Visiting just a few college campuses is beneficial; many colleges and universities also offer virtual opportunities. When an in-person tour is not an option and virtual experiences are not offered, email admissions counselors to learn more about the colleges you are interested in. 

💡Expert Tip: While it is unlikely that every college on a balanced list will be a dream school, when visiting college campuses, students should step back and ask themselves, “Can I see myself here? Could I thrive here?”

SIX: Reflection

If you haven’t already started asking yourself questions about how you will stack up as a college applicant, think about the following and take action as necessary:

How can I be a leader?

Am I participating in school activities?

Am I socially aware (e.g., do I volunteer)?

When I pause to think about who I am, am I satisfied?

What am I doing this summer to grow as a person and, by default, bolster my college resume? Not sure what to do? Read Twelve Ways to Have a Fun AND Meaningful Summer

Will I be able to respond meaningfully to college essay prompts?

💡Expert Tip: The better you know yourself, the easier it will be to produce authentic and profound college essays.

Assessing college application preparedness ensures a strategic, smooth, low-stress college application season. For more information on ensuring readiness for college applications, on how to apply to college, and reduce the uncertainty and stress involved in the college admissions process, please reach out at kathy@fineeducationalsolutions.com.