After hitting the submit button on your college applications, you might wonder what comes next. The process doesn't end there. Staying on top of important tasks can make a big difference in your college journey.

Checking your email regularly and responding promptly to any messages from colleges is crucial after submitting your applications. Schools may send important updates or requests for additional information. Many colleges have online portals where you can track your application status and make sure all materials have been received.

Don't forget about financial aid. If you haven't already, it's time to complete and submit your FAFSA. Some schools may require extra financial documents. Keep working hard in your classes and stay involved in activities. Colleges want to see that you're maintaining your academic and personal growth even after applying.

Key Takeaways

• Check emails and portals regularly for updates from colleges
• Submit financial aid forms and any additional requested materials
• Keep up with schoolwork and extracurricular activities while waiting for decisions

Managing the Waiting Period

The time between submitting college applications and receiving decisions requires patience and preparation. Students can take steps to stay informed and ready for any outcome.

Monitor Your Email and Application Portals

Check your email daily for messages from colleges. Set up notifications to avoid missing important updates. Log into student portals regularly to see if schools need more information.

Some colleges send a confirmation email after receiving your application. If you don't get one within a week, contact the admissions office to make sure they have your materials.

Keep an eye out for interview requests or additional essay prompts. Respond promptly to any requests from schools.

Stay Organized and Keep Track of Deadlines

Create a spreadsheet or use a planner to track important dates:

• Financial aid deadlines
• Housing application due dates
• Enrollment deposit deadlines

Set reminders for these dates on your phone or calendar. Don't forget to send your final high school transcript when it's ready.

Make a list of any additional materials schools might need, like midyear grades or updated test scores. Send these items as soon as they're available.

Prepare for Possible Outcomes

Think about how you'll react to different admission decisions:

• Acceptance
• Waitlist
• Deferral
• Rejection

Have a backup plan in case you don't get into your top choices. Research other schools that are still accepting applications.

If waitlisted, follow the school's instructions to show continued interest. For deferrals, send updates on recent achievements to boost your chances.

Start researching financial aid options and scholarships. Being prepared will help you make quick decisions when admissions results arrive.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

After submitting college applications, it's crucial to focus on financial aid and scholarships. These steps can help reduce college costs and make education more affordable.

Complete Financial Aid Forms

The first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is required for federal financial aid and many state and school-based aid programs. Students should submit the FAFSA as soon as possible after October 1st.

Some colleges also require the CSS Profile. This form is used by over 200 schools to determine eligibility for institutional aid. It's more detailed than the FAFSA and may ask for additional financial information.

Students should check each college's financial aid deadlines and requirements. Some schools may have their own forms or need extra documents. It's important to submit everything on time to be considered for the most aid possible.

Search for Scholarships

Searching for scholarships is an ongoing process. Students should look for opportunities throughout their senior year and even after starting college.

Many scholarships have deadlines in the spring, so winter break is a good time to start applying. Students can use free scholarship search websites to find matches based on their background, interests, and academic achievements.

Local scholarships often have less competition. Students should check with their high school guidance office, local businesses, and community organizations for these opportunities.

Students should treat scholarship applications like job applications. They should tailor each application to the specific scholarship and proofread carefully.

Continued Academic and Personal Growth

The college application process marks a significant milestone, but it's not the end of your high school journey. Staying focused on your studies and personal well-being is key during this period.

Maintain Academic Performance

Keeping your grades up is crucial after submitting college applications. Colleges expect students to maintain their academic performance throughout senior year. A drop in grades could potentially affect admission decisions.

Students should continue to:

• Complete homework and assignments on time
• Prepare for tests and exams diligently
• Participate actively in class discussions
• Seek help from teachers if struggling with any subjects

The final transcript sent to colleges will reflect grades from the entire senior year. Strong academic performance can reinforce a student's commitment to learning.

Engage in Self-Care

Taking care of one's mental and physical health is essential during this potentially stressful time. Students should prioritize self-care activities to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Some self-care practices include:

• Getting enough sleep (7-9 hours per night)
• Eating nutritious meals
• Exercising regularly
• Practicing stress-relief techniques like meditation or yoga

It's also important to spend time with friends and family. These connections can provide emotional support and help students enjoy their final months of high school.

Pursue Optional Interviews and Recommendation Letters

Some colleges offer optional interviews as part of the admissions process. These interviews can be a great way for students to showcase their personality and passion for the school.

Students should:

• Research the college thoroughly before the interview
• Prepare thoughtful questions about the school
• Practice common interview questions with a friend or family member

If allowed, students might consider requesting additional letters of recommendation. These could come from teachers, coaches, or mentors who can speak to the student's recent achievements or growth.

After interviews or receiving recommendations, students should send thank you notes to show appreciation for the time and effort others have invested in their college journey.

Next Steps Following Admission Decisions

After colleges make their decisions, you'll need to take action. Your response depends on whether you're accepted, waitlisted, or denied. Here are the key steps to take after hearing back from schools.

Respond to Colleges After Decisions

When you get admission decisions, act quickly. For acceptances, most colleges require a response by May 1. This is known as National College Decision Day.

If accepted through early decision, the student must attend that school. They should withdraw other applications right away.

For regular decision or early action acceptances, compare financial aid offers. Choose the best fit and inform the school of the decision to attend.

Politely decline offers from other colleges. This frees up spots for waitlisted students.

Submit Required Documents to Chosen College

After picking a college, there's more paperwork to handle. The school will need:

• Final high school transcript
• AP or IB test scores
• Health records and immunization forms
• Housing preferences and roommate questionnaires

Students should check their email regularly for instructions from the college. They may need to set up a student account to access forms and deadlines.

Don't forget to send a thank-you note to anyone who wrote recommendation letters. Let them know the outcome and express gratitude for their help.

Write a Letter of Continued Interest if Waitlisted

Being waitlisted isn't a rejection. Students can take steps to improve their chances of admission.

Write a letter of continued interest to the admissions office. In this letter:

• Reaffirm interest in attending the college
• Provide updates on recent achievements or awards
• Explain how the school remains the top choice

Keep the letter concise and positive. Follow up with any new test scores or improved grades.

Remember, waitlist outcomes can vary. Students should have a backup plan and consider accepting an offer from another school while waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

After submitting college applications, students often have questions about next steps and timelines. These FAQs address common concerns about tracking applications, preparing financially, and handling admissions decisions.

How can I keep track of my application status after submission?

Students can monitor their application status through college portals. Most schools provide an online account to check for updates and confirmations. It's important to check these accounts regularly.

Applicants should also keep an eye on their email, including spam folders. Colleges may request additional information or send important updates via email.

What are my next steps while waiting for a college decision?

Students can use this time productively. They should keep their grades up and stay involved in extracurricular activities.

Researching potential majors and career paths is also beneficial. This helps students prepare for their college experience, regardless of which school they attend.

How should I prepare financially after applying to colleges?

Students should start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is crucial for accessing financial aid options.

Researching and applying for scholarships is another important step. Many scholarships have deadlines throughout the year, so it's wise to start early and apply to multiple options.

When should I expect to receive admission decisions from colleges?

Admission decision timelines vary by school and application type. Early decision and early action applicants typically hear back in December or January.

Regular decision applicants usually receive responses between March and April. Some schools may have rolling admissions, sending out decisions as they review applications.

What should I do if I'm placed on a waiting list?

If waitlisted, students should follow the school's instructions carefully. This often involves confirming interest in remaining on the list.

Sending an update letter with new achievements or improved grades can be helpful. Students should also have a backup plan by accepting an offer from another school.

How can I make updates or corrections to my application after it's been submitted?

If students need to update their application, they should contact the admissions office directly. Most schools have a process for submitting additional information or corrections.

It's important to act quickly if there are significant changes or errors. Admissions offices appreciate honesty and proactive communication from applicants.