Application Checklist

Once you have found the right college, the next step is completing the best application that helps you stand out from all the other people competing for a slot.  There are a lot of steps in the college application process and each has to be done without mistakes and on-time.  Campus Bound counselors navigate students through the process, ensuring that all details are understood and all deadlines are met.

Once students are assigned to a counselor, they receive the Campus Bound College Guide—a ninety page resource book—that guides students through campus visits, interviews, SATs and ACTs, the Common Application, and much more.

Here is a sampling of some of the information in our guide, as it relates to components of the college application.

The Application
Although nearly 300 schools accept the Common Application, most colleges still have their own application that can be completed online or downloaded, printed, and mailed to the school along with supplemental materials.  Your Campus Bound counselor will let you know the critical application requirements of each school.

The Application Fee
Most colleges require a non-refundable application fee, usually between $25 - $75.  Many colleges offer a reduced fee for students who submit their applications online.  In addition, students who are not able to afford the application fee can request a fee waiver from the college.    

High School Transcript
An official from your high school—usually your guidance counselor—fills out this form and mails it directly to the colleges that you apply to.  Some schools, like Boston College and many state universities, will require this information in one packet with your application while others will have it sent separately.

Test scores
Most colleges require you to submit SAT or ACT scores.  In addition, some colleges require two or three SAT Subject Tests.  Students are required to have their scores sent directly to the colleges by the College Board or the ACT Center.

Recommendation Letters
Many colleges will ask you to submit one or more letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well.  Be sure to give your teachers enough time to complete the necessary forms and your letter of recommendation—at least a month. 

Guidance Evaluation
Your high school guidance or college counselor will also send an evaluation.  Your guidance counselor has to write evaluations for every student in the senior class, so getting your forms in early is critical.   Start getting to know your guidance counselor if you don’t already have a relationship with him or her.

The Essay
Whether you’re writing an autobiographical statement or an essay on a specific theme, take the opportunity to express your individuality in a way that sets you apart. Depending on the schools you end up applying to, more than one essay may be required.

Resume/Brag Sheet
Your Campus Bound counselor will help you to come up with a concise way to document your accomplishments and extracurricular activities. Community service, sports, the arts, school organizations, and leadership positions are all very interesting to colleges. 

Audition / Portfolio / Sports Records
If you are applying for a program such as music, art, graphic design, or photography, or are an athlete hoping to play on the college level, you may need to include some samples of what you have accomplished. A neat portfolio or athletic packet is the best way to show off your talents.

This is just a small sample of what our clients receive when they begin working with us.  To learn more about how we can assist you every step of the way – contact us today!