The Anatomy of a College Application

In order to get your college application together, you need to gather many different pieces to give the admission team a glimpse into who you are. Be sure to stay organized and find out from your school counselor or other school official which of these items you have to send and which items your high school will send. 

Application 

Application Forms 

This is the most common first step required to show your interest in a college. It might require information and forms from your family. Both online and paper application forms are available, as well as services (such as The Common Application and the Coalition for College application) that let you complete one application for multiple schools. It is recommended that you apply online if possible, to avoid delays. 

Application Fees  

Fees vary, but generally it costs from $40 to $90 to apply to each college. Fees are nonrefundable. Many colleges offer fee waivers to students who can’t afford to pay. If you need application fee waivers, speak with your school counselor or principal. If you used an SAT® fee waiver, you are automatically eligible for application fee waivers to over 2,000 colleges.  

Scores and Reports 

College Entrance Exam Scores 

Some colleges require that you send your scores from a college entrance exam (such as the SAT® ). Many colleges will only accept scores that are sent directly from the testing organizations. Check with each college to verify whether they require test scores and their policy on receiving test scores.  

High School Transcript  

This is the record of the classes you have taken and your grades in each one. This is one of the most important parts of your application. Review your transcript for accuracy prior to completing your college application. Follow the procedure outlined by your high school for the submission of your transcript to your prospective colleges.  

Secondary School Report  

Some colleges require a Secondary School Report form to be completed by a high school official, usually a school counselor, with information about the school, the graduating class, and specific information about you. Your high school is responsible for sending this form to the college.  

Midyear School Report  

Much like the Secondary School Report, this form is submitted by your high school; it typically includes the fall semester grades of your senior year and updates to your spring semester schedule (if any apply). All colleges do not require this form. 

Letters, Essays and Interviews 

Letters of Recommendation 

Many colleges require letters of recommendation from teachers or other adults who know you well. Ask your references to write recommendations well in advance of the deadlines. It is helpful to give them a short-written summary of your achievements, class contributions, and goals to help them write about you.  

Essays  

Many colleges require an essay or a personal statement as part of your application. Your essay is a chance for you to give admission officers a better idea of your character and strengths. Your essay should be drafted well in advance of the application deadline to ensure adequate time for review and revision.  

Interviews, Auditions, and Portfolios  

It is a good idea to ask for an interview, even if it is optional. It shows you’re serious and gives you a chance to connect with someone in the admission office. Even if a college is far away, you may be able to interview with a local alumnus. If you’re applying to music, art, or theater programs, a college may want to see samples of your work as part of your application. This means you may need to audition, send portfolios, or submit videos demonstrating your artistic ability.

For more help staying organized and making smart college choices, check out the College Advising Essentials guide.