College Applications Are Coming: Here’s How to Prepare

By Leah Maquindang

Staff Writer

As the Class of 2027 starts their final year of high school, it also means the start of college application season. So seniors, listen up! Between choosing schools, writing essays, requesting recommendations, and keeping track of deadlines, the process can quickly become overwhelming. However, knowing what to expect and planning ahead can make the process a lot easier. 

One of the most common tools students use to apply to college is the Common App. The platform allows students to complete one general application and submit it to multiple participating colleges. Students can enter information about their education, activities, honors, and other personal details, while also completing essays and supplemental questions required by individual schools. The Common App opened August 1st, so if you haven’t already looked at it, make sure to check it out!

Although the Common App can make applying to multiple colleges more convenient, students still need to pay attention to each school’s individual requirements. Some colleges require supplemental essays, test scores, or additional materials, and application deadlines can vary. Schools like Scripps College or Stanford require several short answer essays along with even shorter responses but be aware that answering “pizza” for favorite food might not be enough. Be creative and impactful in those responses! 

Keeping track of deadlines is one of the most important parts of the application process. Colleges may offer Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision options, each with different deadlines and commitments. 

If you’re ready to commit and don’t need to see what financial aid might be offered then Early Decision might be the way to go. Just note that this is a binding agreement that requires you to terminate the rest of your college applications and commit to your number one choice. Not only will you sign the contract but so will your parents/guardians and counselor. 

Early Action might be another option if you want to see if a college will accept you early. It is not binding and will allow you to consider all your prospects along with their financial aid packages before committing. Be aware that for most schools, like USC, you must select this option (or ED) if you want to be considered for merit scholarships. 

Finally, Regular Decision is the most common route students take. You have more time to refine those essays and supplementals in exchange for waiting until spring to know the results of your hard work. 

Students should create a calendar or spreadsheet with the deadlines for every college they plan to apply to rather than assuming every school follows the same schedule. Use the trackers that are available through AVID to keep track and create a Symbaloo to log all your college portals on a single board. 

  “Give your applications full effort and don’t procrastinate,” SOAR Class of 2026 graduate Jocelyn Bush advised. She also encourages students to create a plan because it is not time for “I don’t know” anymore. “Realistically, coming out of SOAR, you’ll be in college/university for two years and then on the job market if you only do a bachelor's. So be prepared.”

Students should also pay attention to financial aid and scholarship deadlines. Completing an application does not automatically mean a student has completed the financial aid process. Students should research the FAFSA or other financial aid applications like the CSS Profile, as well as individual scholarship deadlines, early in the year. Remember, FAFSA opens on October 1, 2026, so it is best to start as soon as it opens!

Another important part of the process is the personal essay. Rather than trying to write what students think colleges want to hear, applicants should focus on experiences that show who they are and what matters to them. A strong essay can give admissions officers a better understanding of the person behind the grades and activities listed on the application.

When writing college essays, another recent 2026 graduate and incoming USC freshman, Savannah May, advises students to avoid general answers. “Be very, very specific with what you are trying to talk about in essays,” she said. “Don’t give them a broad, boring explanation.”

Before submitting an application, students should carefully review every section for mistakes and make sure they have completed all required materials. After submitting, they should continue checking their email and college applicant portals for updates, missing documents, or additional steps.

College applications may seem like a lot to manage, but breaking the process into smaller tasks can make it more manageable. “I’m a little nervous, but I know that being prepared little by little can go a long way,” senior Madalyn Santos explained. By starting early, keeping track of deadlines, and asking for help when needed, students can approach application season feeling more prepared and less overwhelmed.