College Search
Advanced Search Options

Search your needs below, and view information about the schools that meet those needs by clicking "Search."

Step 1: Select Subject Area(s)
Step 2: Select Program(s) that Interest You
Complete step 1 before selecting a program.
Step 3: Select Location
Complete steps 1 and 2 before selecting a location.
Step 4: Select Degree Level
0
Graduate Schools match your criteria
Search
Advanced Search Options

Use the criteria listed below to find colleges that are right for you. Click "Search" to view your results.

Step 1: Select Subject Area(s)
Step 2: Select Majors(s) that Interest You
Complete step 1 before selecting a major.
Step 3: Select Degree Level
0
Schools match your criteria
Search
feedback

College Application Form Tips

 

 

 

 

Filling out one college application form after another can be daunting, especially when you're trying to make a good impression upon the admission committees and get everything done on a deadline. This list should help you get the job done well — and on time!

The college application: what to do

  • DO read college applications and directions carefully.
  • DO make sure that everything that is supposed to be included is enclosed.
  • DO fill out your own applications. Type the information yourself to avoid crucial mistakes.
  • DO start with the simple applications and then progress to the more complex ones.
  • DO make copies of college applications, and practice filling one out before you complete the original.
  • DO type or neatly print your answers, and then proofread the applications and essays several times for accuracy. Also ask someone else to proofread them for you.
  • DO describe how you can make a contribution to the schools to which you apply (if you're asked).
  • DO be truthful, and do not exaggerate your accomplishments.
  • DO keep a copy of all the forms you submit to colleges.
  • DO be thorough and turn things in on time.

 

The college application: what NOT to do

  • DON'T use correction fluid. If you type your application for college, use a correctable typewriter or liftoff strips to correct mistakes. Better yet, fill out your application online.
  • DON'T write in script. If you don't have access to a computer or typewriter, print neatly.
  • DON'T leave blank spaces. Missing information may cause your application to be sent back or delayed while admission officers wait for complete information.
  • DON'T be unclear. If the question calls for a specific answer, don't try to dodge it by being vague.
  • DON'T put it off!

 

Saving time
One way to save time when filling out applications is to use the college common application form for the schools you're applying to that accept it. This way, you only have to fill out the form once and it can be sent to multiple colleges!

 

All College Application Info

Using the Common Application as Your College Application

The Common Application for college is a time saving tool accepted by more and more schools each year — public, private, large, and small. Depending on where you...

Ask the Experts: College Application

Read actual questions from students about the college application and see answers and advice from college planning and admissions experts

Last-Minute College Application Tips

Applications are highly evolved documents, based on numerous admission deans asking themselves if they're asking you the right questions. For that reason, how you...

Online College Application Tips

When it comes time to choose which schools will receive your college application and when you'll send it, you can also choose how you're going to send it — online...


The College Application: Behind Closed Doors

It's mid-winter. Your college applications have been submitted and all you can do is wait. After months of mail, interviews, phone conversations, and campus visits,...

Your College Application: Key Elements

College applications have many key elements that students need to complete in order to help themselves stand out. Essays, interviews, letters, portfolios, and the...

Your College Application: Get a Head Start

Even if you're not applying to college under Early Decision or Early Action, getting an early start on your college applications is a smart idea. Why? Most importantly,...

Survey
Help us improve Petersons.com
Take our brief survey!
Share this Page
Featured Colleges
University of Southern California
The University of Southern California, or USC, is located in a neighborhood ...
San Diego State University
With some of the finest weather in the country and pastimes suited to that ...
University of California, Berkeley
The University of California, Berkeley is one of the most revered and ...
Colorado Technical University Colorado Springs
Accounting: All businesses have Accounting professionals that keep them on ...