What to do and not to do on Your College Application
What’s the most important aspect of getting into the college of your dreams? The application of course! It’s shocking how many people don’t take the time to fill out their college applications properly or write a decent admissions essay. Why blow your chance of getting into your top school by failing to proofread a simple application? Even the smallest mishap can be a glaring mistake to an admissions committee. Here are some tips on what to do and what not to do on your college application.
What to do
- It can never really be stressed enough – print or write neatly! If you have really bad handwriting then look at the school’s website and find out if you can submit your application online.
- Make a copy or two of your college applications before filling them out. You’re bound to make a mistake on one of them and this way you can simply restart on a fresh application.
- You may be tempted to embellish your rewards or accomplishments on your application, but always be truthful, the last thing you want is to get caught in a little white lie.
- Proofread your application or admissions essay several times before submitting it. Ask someone else to proofread it too if possible.
- Be thorough on all of your applications and fill in everything that is asked of you. Leaving blanks or unclear answers could cause your application to be delayed or returned for completion.
What not to do
- Don’t wait till the last minute to start filling out all of your applications, that’s a recipe for disaster. Get your hands on applications as soon as possible and get them filled out early.
- If you do make mistakes on your applications, don’t try to fix them by scribbling them out or covering them with whiteout. Just start a new copy or even fill it out on the computer.
- Don’t be vague or unclear in your answers when the application is asking for specifics.
- Although it should be obvious, don’t list an inappropriate email address on your application. If you don’t have one already, make at least a somewhat professional-looking email address for school and career purposes.
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