College Application Checklist
College Application Checklist (Step-by-Step Guide for Students)
Applying to college can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This complete college application checklist walks you through every requirement — from essays and transcripts to recommendation letters, FAFSA, and more. Follow these simple steps to stay organized and stress-free.
Your Complete College Application Checklist
- ✔ Choose your college list
- ✔ Complete the application (Common App, Coalition, or school-specific)
- ✔ Write your college essay and supplements
- ✔ Request transcripts
- ✔ Request recommendation letters
- ✔ Submit SAT/ACT scores (optional)
- ✔ Complete FAFSA + CSS Profile
- ✔ Pay application fees or submit waivers
- ✔ Track all deadlines
Step 1 — Build Your College List
Choose a balanced list of:
- 2–3 Reach schools
- 3–5 Match schools
- 2–3 Safety schools
Consider location, size, major, cost, and campus culture.
Step 2 — Understand Application Platforms
Most colleges use one of these systems:
- Common App — accepted by 1,000+ schools
- Coalition App — used by many public/private universities
- UC Application — for all University of California campuses
- School-Specific — MIT, Georgetown, etc.
Step 3 — Write a Strong College Essay
Your main essay should be:
- Authentic and personal
- Focused on a meaningful experience
- Reflective (show growth)
- Clean, organized, and polished
Tip: Avoid clichés unless your angle is unique.
Step 4 — Complete Supplement Essays
Common supplement prompts:
- “Why This College?”
- “Why This Major?”
- Short personal questions
Step 5 — Request Recommendation Letters
- 1–2 teacher recommendations
- 1 counselor letter
Ask early: 4–6 weeks before deadlines.
Step 6 — Request High School Transcripts
Your school sends official transcripts directly to colleges — request early.
Step 7 — Submit SAT/ACT Scores (Optional)
Submitting strong scores helps with:
- Competitive programs
- Scholarship consideration
- Selective/Ivy League admissions
- Offsetting a lower GPA
Step 8 — Complete the FAFSA
The FAFSA determines eligibility for:
- Federal grants
- Loans
- Work-study
- Most state & university aid
Step 9 — Complete the CSS Profile
Some private colleges require the CSS Profile for institutional aid.
Step 10 — Track All Deadlines
- Early Decision: Nov 1
- Early Action: Nov 1–15
- Regular Decision: Jan 1–15
- Rolling Admissions: varies
Printable College Application Checklist
A downloadable PDF version will be available soon.