Mar 25 (edited) • 🎓 Strategy Posts
1️⃣ US Applications 101: 📝 WHAT You Need to Submit!
💡 Applying to U.S. colleges? The process can seem overwhelming, but when broken down step by step, it’s completely manageable! Here’s exactly what goes into your application and where you’ll submit everything.
📝 Where Do You Submit Your Application?
Most U.S. colleges use one of these platforms:
✅ Common App (900+ schools) – The most widely used platform. You fill out one application and customize essays for each school.
✅ Coalition App (250+ schools) – Similar to Common App but less common.
✅ UC Application (University of California system) – Separate platform.
✅ Individual School Portals – few schools have their own portals, e g MIT & Georgetown
💡 Most students use Common App + a few school-specific portals.
📝 What Goes Into a U.S. College Application?
All applications include 6 key components, which are entered into the platforms above:
1️⃣ Background & Personal Information
📌 Basic details (name, school, citizenship, family info).
2️⃣ Academic Records (Transcripts & Test Scores, if applicable)
📌 Transcripts: Your school counselor submits these directly (you don’t upload them yourself).
📌 Test Scores (if required): Sent via testing agencies (SAT, ACT, AP, IB, A-Levels, TOEFL/IELTS).
📌 Many schools are test-optional—meaning SAT/ACT isn’t required.
3️⃣ Extracurricular Activities & Honors 🏆
📌 Common App Activities Section (10 slots): Clubs, sports, internships, leadership, research, personal projects, family responsibilities.
📌 Common App Honors Section (5 slots): Awards & recognitions (academic, athletic, competitions, etc.).
4️⃣ Essays (Personal & Supplemental) ✍️
📌 Personal Statement (~650 words): Required by Common App & Coalition App.
📌 Supplemental Essays (none for many State schools, up to 7+ for some Ivy Leagues): School-specific prompts ("Why this college?", "Describe an extracurricular.").
5️⃣ Letters of Recommendation 📩
📌 Who to ask?
✔️ 1 counselor letter (required by most schools).
✔️ 1-2 teacher recommendations (core subjects from your junior year).
✔️ Optional: Extra letter (coach, mentor, research supervisor, employer).
📌 How to submit? Teachers/counselors upload them directly through Common App or school portals.
6️⃣ Financial Aid & Scholarships 💰
📌 Need-Based Aid (U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents):
✔ FAFSA & CSS Profile – Open Oct 1 (deadlines typically Nov-Feb of your senior year)
📌 International Students: Some schools offer need-based financial aid, others only merit scholarships (deadlines typically Nov-Feb).
📌 External Scholarships (deadlines typically Oct-Jan)
🚫 Common Misconceptions About Submission Requirements
❌ "I should upload a resume." → Nope! Most colleges do not require or accept resumes unless specifically requested. Instead, your activities & honors section covers this information.
❌ “I upload my own transcripts.” → Incorrect! Your school counselor submits your transcript directly—students don’t upload them.
❌ “I can apply first and figure out financial aid later.” → Wrong! Some schools won’t consider you for aid if you miss their aid/scholarship deadlines.
💬 Got questions? Drop them in the comments! ⬇️
🔥 Next Up: Application Timelines & Deadlines – WHEN to work on what & when to submit it! ⏳
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1️⃣ US Applications 101: 📝 WHAT You Need to Submit!
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