COLLEGE APPLICATION STEPS

Set your target GPA
Start your Student Resume / Brag Sheet
Log your first semester activities, clubs, sports, or jobs with the Application Station
Look into the various tests options: SAT / ACT / CLT — or taking a test-optional path
Many students take a PSAT during their sophomore or junior years
Create a dedicated email address for college and scholarship communications
Identify early scholarships to track
Meet with your guidance counselor and map out your next three years of high school classes

Set official target SAT, ACT, or CLT goal scores
Sign up for a test prep platform (Khan Academy is free!) and set a weekly module completion goal
Not all schools require a test score, but if they do, junior year is a great year to take these tests.
In the spring, ask 2–3 teachers if they are willing to write strong recommendation letters in the fall
Register for and take applicable AP or IB exams at year end
Add at least 5 new possble scholarships per month starting in winter
Estimate net cost for at least 1 college
Add at least 3 possible colleges to your tracking list

Update your junior year activities in the Application Station's Activity tracker
Create a resume in the Application Station, and revise the formatting to your liking
Ask 2–3 teachers if they are will to write strong recommendation letters in the fall
Brainstorm and start writing your main college application essay
Create your main Common Application account and verify your college application requirements
Expand your scholarship tracking list toward 20+ scholarships
Do a formal check-in meeting with parents to align on final college budget expectations
Add requirements of at least 1 college on your Application Station College Tracker

Identify which schools you are applying to via Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision
Finish your main essay with counselor or teacher feedback
Submit a formal Transcript Release Form to your guidance office at least 10 days before deadlines
Set up Federal Student Aid (FSA) accounts for both student and parents
If planning to file the FAFSA, be aware of the application opening date (October 1)
Submit applications directly to the colleges or Common App (if using).
Calculate net cost for 3+ colleges
Narrow your college list to 5 schools (reach, target, safety)

Submit at least 1 application before the due date
Send thank-you notes to your recommenders
Personally contact financial aid offices of accepted schools to compare aid packages and ask about merit adjustments
Link scholarships to your Application Station Net Cost Estimator
Compare costs across your top colleges
Review final acceptance letters and make your official college choice
Attend Freshman Orientation is possible
Submit initial enrollment and housing deposits before the national May deadline

Application Station: Your College Application Tracker

Why Do Families Use the Application Station?

✓ Add colleges & scholarships, from any device.

✓ Keep deadlines organized with the Smart Checklist

✓ Track applications from a personalized dashboard.

✓ Find and save scholarships with just a few clicks.

✓ Compare the true cost of attending different colleges.

✓ See how military scholarships and education benefits affect your bottom line.

✓ Start Early — Planning ahead creates more options.

✓ Stay Organized — Deadlines matter.

✓ Apply Broadly — More scholarship applications increase opportunities.

✓ Build Your Story — Activities, leadership, and relationships matter.

✓ Consider Cost & Fit — The best college is the one that's right for you academically, personally, and financially.

✓ Use the Application Station - Your College Application Tracker.