What happens after you submit a college application?

After submitting your college application, it's important to regularly check your email and school portals for any communications or updates regarding your application status. Maintain good academic performance, especially in advanced courses, as it can impact your acceptance. Also, consider reassessing your college choices as acceptance letters arrive.

Should you email colleges after applying?

Yes, it's a good idea to email colleges after applying if you have specific questions or need assistance. Establishing communication with regional admissions representatives can provide valuable contacts and help address any concerns about your application.

What To Do After Submitting College Applications?

College Counseling

Dec 26

Written By Guest User

By Lynne Fuller, Founder of College Flight Path

As the frenzy of college application submissions winds down, many students and their families breathe a sigh of relief. While this is indeed a significant milestone, it is important to remember that the journey is far from over. Now, it is time to shift the focus towards the next steps in the college admissions process. Here is a quick guide on what students should do after submitting college applications.

1. Check Email Frequently: The email inbox is about to become one of the most important tools in the college admissions journey. Admissions offices will use email to communicate with applicants, so check it regularly. Respond promptly to any requests or inquiries, and ensure the email address is professional and reliable. Be sure to sort communication from individual schools into dedicated files.

2. School Portals: All colleges have dedicated portals once you have completed an application. After submission, create and save the credentials to log into these portals regularly. They may provide updates on the status of the application, missing documents, additional scholarship opportunities, or even decision notifications. Staying informed is crucial to update any additional requested documents.

3. Regional Representatives: It is a good idea to have a list of regional admissions representatives for each school your student has applied to. These individuals can be valuable contacts if there are additional questions throughout the process. Building a rapport with regional representatives can make a difference, especially when addressing specific concerns or providing supplemental information to the application.

4. Mid-Year Grades Matter: Do not let “senioritis” get the best of your student. Mid-year grades, especially for advanced courses like AP classes, is essential. Strong performance in these courses can help advance more quickly in college and avoid getting bogged down in introductory prerequisites. This can translate into a lighter course load during the first semester and ease the transition into college life. In the case of being deferred from Early Decision to Regular Decision, colleges will ask for mid-year grades as proof of your continued effort.

5. Reassess Fit and Finances: As acceptance letters start rolling in, take a moment to reassess all choices. Consider factors like campus culture, financial fit, distance from home, access to transportation, internship opportunities, and availability of support services. Your priorities may have shifted, and it is important to make an informed decision taking into account all of these factors.

6. Connect with Current Students: If your student is interested in learning more about a specific college, reach out to us. We can help make connections with former clients who are currently enrolled at that institution. Hearing firsthand experiences from current students can provide valuable insights into campus life and what to expect.

7. Financial Aid Forms: Complete all financial aid forms, including the CSS Profile and FAFSA, as soon as possible. Meeting the deadlines for these forms is crucial to secure financial aid. Keep in mind that some colleges may have additional forms or requirements, so double-check each school's financial aid application process.

8. Early Decision Considerations: If your student applied Early Decision (ED) to a college and has been admitted, they must withdraw all other applications. Be sure to understand the binding nature of ED and reach out if you have any doubts or concerns about this commitment.

9. Official AP Scores: If your student applied Early Decision, be sure to send official AP scores to the chosen institution once accepted. For those who are still deciding, you can hold off on sending scores until you have made a final decision on which college to attend as AP scores often translate to credits earned and the ability to take more advanced coursework.

The post-application period can be just as crucial as the application process itself. Stay vigilant, proactive, and organized. Keep a watchful eye on the email inbox and application portals, maintain good academic performance, and reassess college choices as each admission decision is received. By following these steps, your student will be well-prepared to embark on the next steps of this exciting college journey.

To learn more about what to do after submitting your college applications or any other related topics, email hello@collegeflightpath.com, fill out our inquiry form, or engage in our Self-guided Senior Flight Log Application course.

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