Tips for Applying to College: Avoid the Extra Stress
Applications and essays and financial aid, oh my! Follow these 10 tips for applying to college so you can truly enjoy the college application journey.
From my experience working with high school juniors and seniors, I know that applying to college is equal parts thrilling and soul-sucking. The thought of spending the next four plus years (or more) of your life away from home in a new place with the freedom to pursue your passions is incredibly exciting.
But filling out applications for schools and scholarships and writing personal essays on top of school work, a job, normal teenage stress, and other responsibilities can be exhausting and anxiety-inducing.
If this is how you are feeling, keep reading. You’ll learn 10 tips for applying to college that will help you keep your sanity.
1. Start early and make a plan
One of the best tips for applying to college is to start your college application journey early. Begin researching colleges and understanding their requirements well in advance. Create a realistic timeline and break down tasks into manageable steps. Using a planner to keep track of dates can be super helpful!
This approach will prevent last-minute rushes and give you enough time to revise your essays, gather recommendation letters, and complete all necessary paperwork. Planning ahead will alleviate so much stress.
2. Build a support system
Going through your college application journey alone will create unnecessary overwhelm and anxiety. Instead, surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, and mentors. Basically anyone who can offer you guidance and encouragement. Mentors can include older students, teachers, or other college application experts and coaches.
Share your college dreams and concerns with them. Discussing your feelings and experiences with people who understand and care for you can help alleviate stress and provide valuable insights.
3. Set realistic expectations
Definitely allow yourself to dream big. Don’t rule out your dream school(s)! But it’s equally crucial to set realistic expectations for yourself. Understand that college admissions can be competitive, and rejection is a part of the process.
Embrace the idea that the right college for you is one where you will thrive academically and personally. This is regardless of the school’s prestige or rankings. It’s also important to keep in mind that you could probably have an amazing experience at more than one institution.
So if one of your top choice schools doesn’t work out, don’t get down on yourself. You can consider writing a letter of continued interest (if you were waitlisted/deferred). Or you can keep moving forward with your other options.
4. Make time for self-care and fun
The college application process can be stressful and hectic. Especially on top of all of your other responsibilities as a young adult. Prioritize self-care to maintain your mental and emotional well-being.
The following can be game-changers for your mood and overall well-being:
- Getting enough sleep
- Engaging in physical activities you enjoy
- Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, meditation or mindfulness
- Doing things that make you laugh or smile
Taking care of your body and mind will boost your energy levels and help you tackle challenges with a clearer perspective. And remember that this will be your last year of high school. Be sure to save time for hanging out with friends and making memories.
5. Limit application volume
One of my favorite tips for applying to college is this one. I’ve seen so many students turn application volume into a competition. But at the end of the day, you are only competing against yourself.
Applying to too many colleges can be overwhelming and intensify stress. Not to mention, those application fees will add up (unless you qualify for a fee waiver). Focus on a balanced list of colleges that match your interests, goals, and academic plans.
Be selective and apply to a mix of reach, match, and safety schools. Remember, it doesn’t matter how many colleges you get into. It just matters that you get into one (or even a few) that you are really interested in.
Quality over quantity will allow you to invest more time and effort in crafting thoughtful applications. Five to eight is a good amount of schools to apply to. According to Common App, the average number of applications that first year applicants submitted on the site in 2022 was 5.7.
6. Seek help proactively
Your high school counselor is a valuable resource during the college application process. They can provide guidance on college selection, application strategies, and financial aid options. Don’t hesitate to ask for help and clarification whenever you encounter doubts or challenges.
You can get help from close friends or family members who have recently gone through the application process. Most admissions offices go above and beyond to ensure that prospective students can get their questions answered. Just make sure to reach out to someone when you are confused. Don’t dwell in your struggle alone.
7. Take breaks and find balance
It’s important to balance your college applications with other aspects of your life. Make time for activities you enjoy, spend time with friends, and engage in hobbies to recharge.
Taking breaks from the process will refresh your mind and keep you motivated. This is especially important for when you get to really busy parts of the school year.
8. Celebrate the little wins
Throughout your college application journey, acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Completing essays, receiving positive feedback, or submitting applications are all milestones worth celebrating.
Taking time to reflect on your progress will boost your confidence and motivation to continue moving forward.
9. Focus only on what you can control
Accept that certain aspects of the college application process are beyond your control. Instead of fixating on the outcomes, concentrate on the efforts you put into your applications. Focus on presenting your best self and let go of the rest.
10. Remember your worth beyond college applications
And finally, remember that getting accepted into a college doesn’t define your worth. Or even your potential. Your journey to success and personal growth does not end with acceptance to a specific college. Embrace the opportunities that come your way and have faith in your abilities to create a fulfilling and meaningful life beyond college.
I hope you found these 10 tips for college applications helpful!
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