Applying to College

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Yes, more tests, but they’re a necessary and important part of this process. Why? Simple: your scores help the admissions team make sure you’re a good fit for your school. The most common entrance tests are the SAT and ACT.

• Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) This is a roughly three-hour test that’s divided into two sections: evidence-based reading and writing, and math. The once optional essay section has been discontinued except for in certain states where the SAT is administered in schools on a school day. Colleges, however, do not require it. SAT scores range from 400 to 1,600, and the essay doesn’t impact overall scores. Official SAT website
• American College Testing (ACT) This will sound oddly specific, but it’s true: the ACT lasts for exactly 2 hours and 55 minutes and covers grammar and punctuation, algebra, geometry and trigonometry, reading comprehension and scientific reasoning. Each of its four sections is scored on a range from 1 to 36. Your final score will be an average of the four section scores. A separate writing section receives its own individual score. Official ACT website

Take those practice tests, review weak spots, stick to a schedule, and take advantage of online study tools. And don’t forget to get a good night’s sleep before test day.

Most colleges send out decisions between March and April, while early decision (ED) and early action (EA) applicants usually hear back by December. Once you receive your acceptance offer, unless you’ve applied ED, you’ll need to make your final decision on where to attend by May 1, known as National College Decision Day. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions leading up to this deadline. Take time to reflect on the hard work you’ve put in and make a choice that feels right for you. Here's a quick breakdown of important deadlines:

• National College Decision Day: Mark your calendars for May 1. By this date, you must inform colleges of your final decision and submit your enrollment deposit at the school you choose.
• Early Decision (ED): Applying ED means you’re committed to attending that school if accepted. It’s a binding agreement, and if you get in, you must enroll. Your acceptance response is due by January 1.
• Early Action (EA): EA, on the other hand, is not binding. It means you can apply early and find out sooner if you got in, but you don’t have to commit until May 1.
• Rolling Admissions: Some colleges review applications as they come in and will let you know their decision fairly quickly (sometimes even in a few weeks). However, if the school requires a commitment, your decision is still due by May 1. Here’s How to Stand Out To Colleges

Interviews can do a lot to help your application — like giving admissions a chance to get to know you face-to-face and showing that you’re serious about the school. At the same time, they’re also a great way to find out if a school is the right fit for you — so be sure to come with questions. While the approach to interviews can vary by school, there are some consistent types of interviews to be prepared for.

• Alumni: Conducted by college alumni, these are informal and help give the school a sense of who you are.
• Admissions Officer: These tend to be more formal and are often part of the complete application review process.
• Virtual Interviews: More recently, some schools offer or require virtual interviews, especially if you live far away.

Lastly, if you’re prepared and calm, and see your interview as an opportunity to showcase what makes you unique, you’re going to do just fine.