Most seniors enter their final year of high school familiar with their surroundings and confident in their ranking as the oldest in the school; however, for the class of 2021, or really anyone, this year is unrecognizable. And yet, amongst all of this, at least one thing remains the same: the impending college application deadline.  

To help you during this application season, The CHAT has come up with a few items to follow to ensure your success:

1. Create a Common App Account

Or an account with whatever application site best suits your needs. Other options include Questbridge and Coalition. 

2. Research colleges and add them to your college list. 

Different schools offer different things and it’s important to apply to colleges that will best meet your needs and wants. So whether that means researching their location, professors, majors, or even all of the above, set apart some time to look into every school you’re interested in. 

3. Fill out your FAFSA form

Pursuing higher education can be expensive but The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (aka the FAFSA) is designed to help students pursue their goals. It is important to fill out this form as soon as possible in order to potentially receive financial aid. 

4. Write your common app essay

Some might argue that essays are one the most important portions of your application. It offers the chance to showcase a part of you that other areas in your application don’t highlight. 

5. Apply for other scholarships!

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of scholarships out there! Some require essays and some don’t, but no matter your background or interest there surely is at least one that you are eligible to apply to!

   These are just a few aspects of what goes into a college application, and it is important to remember that there are a lot of other elements to consider. To help you along with this process, not only is the CHAT staff here to help, but so is Ms. Fernandez, the BRACE advisor at PPCHS. For more info, please visit the PPCHS School Counseling 9-12 course on Canvas- BRACE Resources Module & Class of 2021 Module, or the College and Career Readiness page on our school website!