A printed version of a student’s official record of degree coursework, which shows each course that was taken and earned grades.
Personal recommendation letters from colleagues or associates that describe a student’s qualifications and capabilities.
A student-written description of achievements, motivations, goals, and the intended purpose of pursuing a degree.
A record of a student’s employment, internship, and volunteer history.
A formal meeting or discussion between a student and a college representative.
Examinations that assess a student’s general abilities in math, English, reading, and writing.
While some schools do not require entrance exams for admission, many degree programs will require that you take at least one of the following exams:
The SAT is an entrance exam used by colleges and universities to measure intellectual potential. It measures math, reading, and writing, and features an optional essay.
The ACT consists of multiple-choice tests in English, math, reading, and science. It also includes an optional writing test. Scores are based on the total number of correct answers. All questions are weighed equally.
The GRE is a general knowledge test for graduate school admission. It includes a general knowledge and writing section.
The GMAT assesses verbal, quantitative, reasoning, and analytical writing, with a scoring range of 200 to 800, similar to the SAT and ACT exams. Most business schools require the GMAT.
The MCAT is required for entry into medical degree programs. It tests physical and biological sciences, verbal reasoning, writing skills, and features a section on sociocultural, biological, and psychological influences on behavior and social interactions.
The LSAT is required for admission into law school. It’s offered four times each year and tests four sections: logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, reading comprehension, and an essay. The LSAT is scored on a scale of 120 to 180 points. Most law schools average multiple LSAT scores, so students often take the test several times to get a desired score.
The TOEFL is an internationally recognized English language test. International students are required to take the TOEFL to demonstrate English-speaking proficiency before they apply to a college or university.
Early action can get you ahead of the application rush and any ensuring deadlines. It also provides enough time to fill out any necessary forms, request recommendations, and submit all items ahead of schedule.
Most programs and schools have benchmark scores that you must meet for standardized tests, such as the SAT, ACT, and GRE. If you do not meet these scores, you should consider retaking any of the required tests to boost your composite score — the average or total of each of your test scores — which will maximize your standardized test score. Also, reach out to your program of choice to see if you qualify for any exam fee waivers.
If you are a transfer or international student, you may have a unique set of requirements for your college application, such as transfer credit amounts, special recommendations, and additional documentation. Read our Guide to Transfer Credit to answer any questions you may have when transferring from one university to another.
Careless mistakes can be costly to your admission chances. Proofread your college application to spot errors. Use the same mailing address, contact information, and name on all paperwork. These efforts ensure that your information is in top-quality and is not lost or misfiled.
Contact an enrollment advisor for the specifics regarding your college application, any next steps after you submit your materials, and any other questions you may have regarding the admissions.
You have worked too hard to let any unexpected problems derail your education. Save all identification numbers, passwords, emails, and a copy of each piece of your application. This will be the insurance you need if an issue arises.
Are you active military or a veteran of the armed forces? Check out the options available to you here.
Typical start dates are in August, January, and May; however, application deadlines may differ by school and degree program.
Most schools also offer rolling admission, which means students can apply within a certain window of time. Also, many institutions offer early decision plans that can be highly beneficial for students with a first-choice college — but it’s a binding decision. Students admitted to a school by early decision must attend that school.
Though application dates may vary, it’s important to know your dates and to give yourself plenty of time to prepare your application.
Once you have submitted your application, you should receive an acknowledgement message either by email, or through direct mail if you choose to submit a printed application. College acceptance letters can be sent out in as few as two weeks or several months — it all depends on an institution’s decision-making process. As you wait, you can check your application through the admissions office website for your school.
Accepted — You are granted admission into your school or degree program
Waitlisted — You have been placed on hold while the admissions committee decides how many waitlisted applicants are admitted
Deferred — Your college has not completed its review of your application and is deferring your decision to a later date
Rejected — Your application was denied for entry.
Do not pin your hopes on a waitlisted or deferred application. Instead, you should strongly consider applying to other schools in case you are rejected. This is the perfect time to make plans with a backup school.