Tristan Hicks
Applying to college can be both an exciting and stressful time. On the one hand, you may be excited about all the new experiences of living on your own, meeting new people, attending all the events, and more. On the other hand, you may be nervous navigating a variety of deadlines, writing multiple essays, and submitting different materials all while balancing your senior year classes and commitments.
It is totally normal to feel this mix of emotions. To help clarify the process and strengthen your application, we’ve outlined the steps to apply to college as well as some practical tips.
How to Begin Your College Application
To start your college application journey effectively, begin by researching schools that match your interests and goals. Create a shortlist of 10-15 colleges to focus your efforts, ensuring you understand each school’s unique requirements and deadlines before applying.
With thousands of colleges and universities to choose from, it’s important to look beyond rankings and reputation to find a school that fits your academic interests, budget, goals, desired location, and lifestyle. Finding a community where you can learn, grow, explore your interests, and prepare for your future will set you up to thrive in college. Our article, How to Choose a College, goes in-depth on researching colleges.
Understand Requirements and Deadlines
Every institution has its own admission requirements, so it is important to double-check all that is required from the universities you are applying to before hitting ‘submit.’ Requirements for standardized test scores, essays, letters of recommendations, and transcripts as well as application deadlines may vary by school.
If you are ever unsure of the requirements for a specific school, contact your admission counselor. They will be happy to help you through the process!
Starting Your Application
To officially start your application, you have to find where to apply. Most colleges will include the link to apply on their website as well as in emails and other communications. Typically, the application will open in August or September. Over 1,000 different schools in the U.S. use the Common Application which is a standardized form that makes it easier to apply to multiple colleges at once.
A college application will require you to enter your contact information. This will be the primary way for the school to send information and updates to you through the Summer. So, it is important to avoid school emails and instead use a phone number and email that you are reachable on.
Gathering Your Materials
Transcripts
A major part of what is being considered in your college application will be your academic performance shown through your transcripts. So, it is important to ensure that you submit your high school transcripts.
Each school may have a different process for when and how these are submitted, but typically it can be sent through the mail in a sealed envelope or by using a program like Scoir, Parchment, or Clearinghouse. You can find more information on how to submit your transcripts on the school website or by reaching out to an admission counselor.
GPA Considerations: Each college weighs GPA differently in their application review. While a 2.5 GPA may meet minimum requirements at some schools, others expect higher. Make sure to research each school’s average admitted GPA.
Test Scores
Some schools require you to submit standardized test scores (like the ACT or SAT), while others make it optional. If you believe your score positively reflects your ability and potential, submit them with your application. Keep in mind, some schools, including Chapman, “superscore” SAT and ACT scores. Meaning, if you have taken the exams more than once, they will use your highest scores in each section. Check the testing policy for each college you are considering before deciding whether and when to take a standardized test.
Extracurriculars
Most college applications will include an extracurricular activities section. This is your opportunity to let us know what you are doing outside of the classroom. Take the time to think of how you spend your time outside of the classroom.
This can include involvements at school like clubs, sports, student government, or theater. Or, they can be outside of school like internships, jobs, volunteering, club sports, religious involvement, or family responsibilities and make sure to mention them. Make sure to highlight leadership, special projects, and dedication if you can as well.
Tips from Chapman’s Admission Team
Transcipts:
- Take five academic solids each year: English, social science, math, science, and a language. (That includes senior year).
- If your school offers honors, AP, or IB, challenge yourself, but choose a level you can handle.
- Ninth grade doesn’t matter.
- Grades matter. Trends matter.
Extracurriculars:
- Tell them how you spend your time.
- Give a short description of each activity.
- Family responsibilities and jobs count.
- Substance beats volume.
- Ninth grade doesn’t factor in. It’s a year of transition and exploration.
- Schools care less about what you do and more that you’re engaged.
Writing Your Personal Essay
Your personal statement is an opportunity for colleges to get to know you beyond your grades, test scores and activities. It gives admission counselors a chance to hear your voice, understand how you think and learn what makes you unique. Share your story in your own voice and focus on the experiences, people, interests or ideas that have shaped you.
Not sure where to start? Begin by brainstorming experiences that have influenced who you are. Consider moments when you:
- Faced a challenge and learned something from the experience
- Changed your perspective on an important topic
- Discovered an interest or passion
- Took on a responsibility or stepped outside your comfort zone
- Made a mistake and grew from it
- Had an experience that helped you understand yourself or others differently
You do not need to write about the biggest or most dramatic experience of your life. A meaningful story about an everyday experience can be just as effective if it reveals something important about you.
As you write, avoid clichés and focus on specific details that help the reader understand your perspective. Your essay should sound like you, not like a thesaurus or someone else’s writing. Give yourself plenty of time to write, revise and proofread your essay before application deadlines. Ask a trusted teacher, counselor or mentor to review your essay for clarity and errors, but make sure the final version remains your own work and voice.
Requesting Recommendations
Letters of recommendation can give colleges another perspective on who you are as a student and as a person. Every school has different requirements, so check how many recommendations you need and who is eligible to write them before asking someone.
Choose a teacher, counselor, coach or mentor who knows you well and can speak specifically about your strengths, growth and contributions. A recommendation from someone who knows you well is often more useful than one from someone with an impressive title who has had little interaction with you.
Plan to ask for recommendations early, ideally several weeks or more before your first application deadline. When you ask, provide your recommender with helpful information, such as:
- Your résumé or activities list
- A list of colleges you are applying to and their deadlines
- Information about your intended major or academic interests
- Details about projects, accomplishments or experiences you are particularly proud of
- Any instructions or links they need to submit the recommendation
Giving your recommender this information can make it easier for them to write a thoughtful and specific letter. Be sure to thank your recommenders for taking the time to support your college application, and let them know when you receive your admission decisions.
Submitting Your Application
Before submitting your application, take a few minutes to review everything carefully. Make sure you have selected the correct college and major, answered every required question, and included all required materials. Check your essays for spelling and grammar errors, and confirm that your activities, courses, and other information are accurate.
Try not to wait until the final hours before the deadline to submit. Technical issues, missing materials, or unexpected problems can add unnecessary stress. Once you submit, save your confirmation email or receipt so you have a record of your application.
Remember that submitting your application is not always the final step. Check each college’s applicant portal and make sure any additional materials or forms are completed by their deadlines.
Applying for Scholarships and Financial Aid
College costs can add up quickly, so it is important to explore your options for financial aid and scholarships. In addition to financial aid offered by colleges, you can search for scholarships through community organizations, foundations, employers, and other outside organizations.
Pay close attention to scholarship requirements and deadlines. Some scholarships may require additional essays, recommendation letters, or other materials, and their deadlines may be different from your college application deadlines. Keep a list of scholarships you are interested in and the materials needed for each one so you can stay organized.
Maintaining Your Academic Progress
Submitting your college applications does not mean you can stop paying attention to your classes. Your senior year grades are still an important part of your academic record, and colleges may review your grades after you apply.
Continue challenging yourself while maintaining a manageable course load, attending class, completing your assignments, and asking for help when you need it. If your college plans change during your senior year, keep your admission counselor informed about significant changes to your schedule or academic record.
Campus Visits and Virtual Tours
If you have the opportunity, visiting a college campus can help you decide whether a school is the right fit for you. Walk through academic buildings, explore residence halls and common spaces, and take time to experience the surrounding community.
During your visit, consider what daily life might look like as a student. Ask questions about academics, student life, housing, support services, and activities that interest you. You can also talk with current students to hear about their experiences.
If you cannot visit in person, look for virtual tours, information sessions, student panels, and other online resources. These can give you a better sense of a college and help you make an informed decision.
What are Chapman’s Requirements?
Considering Chapman University? Here are a few key dates and requirements to keep in mind.
Fall 2027 application deadlines:
- November 1, 2026: Early Action and Early Decision I
- January 15, 2027: Early Decision II and Regular Decision
Spring 2027 application deadline: October 15, 2026
First-year applicants should submit the Common Application and Panther Profile, at least one teacher recommendation, an official high school transcript, the Common App School Report, and the application fee or eligible fee waiver. Chapman is also test-optional, so students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores.
Some programs and applicants have additional requirements, including a Creative Supplement for select creative talent majors and the FAFSA and CSS Profile for students seeking consideration for need-based financial aid.
Application requirements and deadlines can change, so be sure to review Chapman’s first-year application information for the most up-to-date details.
Frequently Asked Questions About Applying to College
When should I start applying to college?
It is a good idea to begin researching colleges and organizing your application materials before your senior year. Many college applications open in August or September, with Early Action and Early Decision deadlines often falling in November and Regular Decision deadlines typically falling between December and February. Starting early gives you more time to research schools, write your essays, request recommendations and gather required materials.
Are application fees required, and can I get a fee waiver?
Many colleges charge an application fee, although the amount varies by school. Some colleges do not charge an application fee, and students who meet certain eligibility requirements may be able to receive an application fee waiver. Check each college’s application requirements to determine whether a fee is required and whether you qualify for a waiver.
Will a 2.5 GPA get me into college?
A 2.5 GPA does not automatically prevent you from being admitted to college. Admission requirements and academic expectations vary widely among colleges and universities, and schools may consider factors beyond your GPA, including your coursework, grades over time, extracurricular activities, essays and other parts of your application. Research colleges that fit your academic profile and consider speaking with an admission counselor about your options.
Can I apply to multiple colleges through the Common Application?
Yes. The Common Application allows students to submit one application to multiple participating colleges and universities. However, each college may have its own requirements, including supplemental essays, recommendations, test score policies and application fees. Always review the requirements for each college before submitting your application.
What happens after I submit my college application?
Submitting your application is not always the final step. Check your email and applicant portal for each college to make sure your application is complete and that you have submitted any additional materials by their deadlines. You may also need to submit financial aid forms, creative supplements or other required documents.
