Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start filling out college applications?

You can begin the college application process as early as August 1st in the summer before senior year; typically, students begin once school starts in September. Remember that your application is not complete until all of the application requirements are submitted and received, so it’s important to have all of those things together as early as possible. Your goal should be to have all applications submitted by either Thanksgiving or Winter Break, while also keeping in mind any early deadlines you plan to hit.

What is the Common Application?
The Common Application (or Common App) is an undergraduate college application that students may use to apply to over 1100 member colleges. You can find the application at www.commonapp.org/.

Do all of my application components have to be submitted at the same time?
You should be focusing on submitting your applications first, which usually includes your essay (if it is required). Everything else can be submitted after your application. Once you submit your application, make sure to request your documents be sent to that school. If you choose to submit test scores, they need to be sent directly from the testing company (CollegeBoard.org or ACT.org). Your financial aid application is a completely separate process and should be filled out as well. It does not matter which one you fill out first.

When can I fill out my FAFSA?
The FAFSA (free application for federal student aid) is not available until October 1st of senior year, so there is no way for you to complete the FAFSA before then. However, you must create your FSA ID ahead of time. On October 1st you will be able to go to the Online Application and begin filling it out. This is a separate process from college applications; you do NOT need to wait to apply to college until after the FAFSA is complete. Submit your college applications whenever you are ready!

I have no idea what to do after graduation. Help!
Many people do not know what they’d like to do after they graduate. That’s okay! The best thing to do now is to research your options. Think about your favorite school subject and your favorite hobby. Take any free career interest or personality surveys. Look at some of the responses that interest you, and search for more information about them online. I will be there to help you along the way!