5 Details to Finalize Before Submitting Your College Applications

Seniors, it's November. AKA college application time!

Let’s be real, it's easy to get frazzled now. But, wouldn’t it be nice if you felt at ease instead of scrambling to submit your applications? Let’s take a moment to review the final details you should confirm on your college applications so you can feel confident when submitting!

Final Checklist: Submitting College Applications

Take a moment to read through these 5 items to help ensure you stay on track.

1. Review the college’s website

Before you submit your application, it doesn’t hurt to do a final sweep of the college’s website. Make sure you’ve confirmed:

• the application deadline
• which forms and documents are required (and from where)
• what the college is looking for on applications
• that you've sent over your ACT and/or SAT scores

2. Plan for the day you’ll apply

Waiting until the final hour is often unnecessarily stressful.

If you intend to apply to a college, pick a day and time ahead of the deadline that you’ll sit down to complete (and submit) the application. If you're applying to multiple colleges, you can space this out over multiple days. It all depends on what works best for your mind and schedule.

3. Proofread your essay and application

It's so helpful to have a second set of eyes on your college essay! We recommend having someone else read your essay 1 more time before submitting it.

Ensure you carefully read the application itself to ensure you’re following directions, haven't made spelling mistakes, and have properly completed all the sections. 

4. Confirm documents have been sent on your behalf

This could include documents like a school report, letters of recommendation, a counselor report, test scores, and more. Ensure to do a final check on any items that require someone else to complete them.

Do your due diligence by ensuring that your counselor is aware of your applications well ahead of time, and be conscientious and appreciative of their time—they have your best interests at heart! 

5. Keep a copy for your records

Whether you grab a screenshot, take a photo, save a PDF, or print, it’s always a good idea to keep a copy of your application for your records. If there are any issues with your application, you will have a record of your submission. 

Applying to college is—and should be—exciting! Help reduce your anxiety by following these final steps before submitting your college application.

Looking for most last-minute advice? Check out What College Admission Decision Makers are Really Looking For to help put the final touches on your application.

This article was originally published on November 10, 2021. It was updated on November 10, 2023 for accuracy and comprehensiveness.