COVID-19 has upended many aspects of our lives such as how we go places, communicate with people, and make future plans, to name a few. High school classes may be at school, online, or a mix of both. Clubs meet virtually or outside. Sports schedules are shortened. For juniors and seniors. applying to colleges and universities requires the same components (applications, transcripts, letters of recommendation, for example). However, creating your application list will require much more diligent research. And sitting for the SAT or ACT may not be an option due to cancelled test dates. How can you decide where to apply if you can’t visit? Do colleges want test scores? What about my activities that I had to stop? Let’s address how the process and requirements have changed due to COVID-19:
- On-campus tours are cancelled in most areas. If available, they are extremely limited.
- Admissions counselors are only scheduling virtual information sessions with high schools.
- College websites have become much more interactive and informative.
- Some application fees have been waived or reduced.
- SAT or ACT tests are optional for many schools. Additional writing samples may be required in their place.
To keep track with all the changes, here are some guidelines to help you along.
Tips and Checklists by Grade Level
Seniors – Get those applications written, edited and submitted as soon as possible. Even if you aren’t applying for early or priority decision, admissions counselors are eager to read applications to get to know you! Also, official SAT or ACT scores do NOT have to accompany your applications at many schools.. They can be self-reported, if you decide to include them, OR sent soon after. (See www.fairtest.org for the latest list of test-optional schools.) The earlier you submit all the application items, the faster you’ll know if you’re “in.” Financial aid packages may also accompany an admissions letter, or will follow shortly thereafter. Wouldn’t it be great to have an admission letter or two before winter break?
Senior Student’s College Appl Checklist & Deadlines
- Apply for the FAFSA (required for any government or school-based financial assistance).
- Get all applications completed and submitted by January 15 or earlier.
- Give teachers and others at least two weeks to write letters of recommendation.
- Follow your school’s instructions on how to request official transcripts as part of your applications.
- Allow a trusted friend or adult to read your essays for clarity and typos.
Juniors & Sophomores: You’ve got work to do, too! Although it seemed the school year would NEVER begin, here we are in the second quarter. You’ve adjusted to the new way of going to school. For juniors the time is going to go very quickly so check out SAT or ACT test dates for spring and register when they open. Also, to keep you on track with college research, ask yourself these questions:
- Do I want to attend a large university or a small college?
- Close to home or farther away?
- Would I like a more urban or small-town setting?
- Can I thrive in large lecture halls or do I need smaller class sizes?
- How much can I afford to pay for my undergraduate degree?
- What major do I think I want to study?
Start a file or folder with this information, bookmark websites, and see if you can answer those questions. If not, don’t worry. As time passes your choices will become more clear. And don’t forget to discuss your college education ideas with your parents/guardians! Let them in on your thoughts and wishes for your plans after high school. An ongoing conversation with your family will help support you through this process.
Junior/Sophomore College Planning Checklist
- Research and select colleges you wish to consider applying to.
- Schedule your SAT/ACT Testing Dates (PSAT for sophomores).
- Decided on a major or still unsure? Go find a shadow/internship opportunity.
- Keep your grades up!
- Find ways to volunteer virtually or in-person if it’s safe in your area.
Also, be sure to grab your coffee and a notebook and join us at one of our College Over Coffee events where we will address the college application process, priority deadlines for admissions, scholarship search details, and more.
With the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, this process is fluid as schools adjust. Be sure to check the websites of colleges on your list to verify details or work with me, Deb Hobson – College Admissions Coach, to develop an individualized plan for your undergraduate goals. Together, we can get you on track to increase your chances of acceptance into the college or university that best fits YOU!
