August is typically crunch time for college admissions. But this year, our goal is to help students manage stress by mapping out realistic timelines for important milestones – like filling out the Common Application or UC Application. As summer winds down and school approaches, these last few weeks of summer are a great time for rising seniors to get ahead – especially since key online applications are now live!
At Colledge, we can help your child apply to any college using any application.
Q. Which applications should my child start now?
Common Application
For students applying to many of the private (and some public) schools in the US, the Common Application provides one platform for over 700 colleges and universities. Your student can fill out one application and send it to multiple colleges. But watch out, most colleges have individual supplemental requirements, such as multiple essay questions, specific requirements for letters of recommendation, and options for submitting resumes and other relevant materials like portfolios or research papers.
http://www.commonapp.org/
University of California (UC) Application
With over 115,000 applications to some of the UC campuses (wow!), why not start filling it out now? Each campus has a unique personality with a variety of major options. Check it out and get started today.
https://admissions.universityofcalifornia.edu/applicant/login.htm
Coalition Application
Similar to the Common Application, Coalition offers a single platform for students to apply to multiple colleges and universities. The main difference is that there is more space for uploading materials such as video, photography, science projects or awards by adding them to a secure “locker” that will be viewed only by member institutions. In some instances, it is advisable to apply to colleges through Coalition over the Common App if given both as an option. Click HERE to discuss your child’s application strategy.
Here are a few colleges that are now members of the Coalition:
- University of Washington
- Amherst College
- Caltech
- Princeton University
- Swarthmore College
- Texas Christian University
Check to see if your colleges are part of the Coalition:
http://coalitionforcollegeaccess.org/
Q. When should my child start filling out applications?
Now! When students work with us on their applications early they can project the work that lies ahead – essay work, supplemental materials to send, interview prep, scholarship applications, resumes, and letters of recommendation.
We work with students and families to optimize applications, essays, college lists, and to lower stress levels. Click HERE to schedule a free phone consultation.
