How to Apply (2024)

FAQs

Do Cal states require essays? ›

Although the CSU campuses will be looking at coursework and non-academic variables such as the hours spent in extra-curricular activities, the CSU system does not require any essays or personal statements and remains as objective as possible in making admissions decisions.

The Common App allows you to apply to multiple schools at once. About 950 colleges and universities around the world accept the Common App. Applications typically open on August 1 and close on January 1.

When should I start applying to college? Start the application process the summer before your senior year. You can also do a lot of prep work your junior year, such as taking the SAT, researching campuses and visiting them, getting recommendation letters, and adding to your extracurriculars.

It requires hard work, determination, and often the help of family and school administrators. On top of earning good grades and strong SAT or ACT scores, you must write a compelling essay and secure letters of recommendation. But getting into a good school doesn't have to be an uphill battle.

For your high school, a D is passing. You can graduate with Ds, but you cannot go to college with Ds. Colleges will give you ZERO credit for the class, just like you got an F. This is true no matter what the class is, even if it is not a required class.

California residents and graduates of California high schools will be eligible for admission by earning a 2.50 or greater “a-g” GPA. Any California high school graduate or resident of California earning a GPA between 2.00 and 2.49 may be evaluated for admission based upon supplemental factors.

UC has a specific way to calculate the grade point average (GPA) it requires for admission. California applicants must earn at least a 3.0 GPA and nonresidents must earn a minimum 3.4 GPA in all A-G or college-preparatory courses to meet this requirement.

Average GPA: 4.17

With a GPA of 4.17, MIT requires you to be at the top of your class. You'll need nearly straight A's in all your classes to compete with other applicants. Furthermore, you should be taking hard classes - AP or IB courses - to show that college-level academics is a breeze.

Your online application to Harvard, via the Common Application or the Coalition Application, Powered by Scoir. This is needed to open your admissions file, track your documents, and set up a possible alumni interview. The $85 application fee or a fee waiver request.

Is MIT admission free? ›

MIT has its own online application, which is available online from mid-August through January 1. The application fee is $75. If paying the fee presents a hardship for applicants, fee waivers are available upon request.

Some students worry that the Common Application may actually hurt their chances for acceptance. However, colleges and universities that accept the Common App sign a document stating that they will not favor the traditional, school specific application over other options.

Not all schools accept the Common App. Colleges may require that you fill out their own application form or ask you to use another application system like ApplyTexas for Texas colleges. Add schools that interest you to the My Colleges list in your Common App account.

Public and private schools throughout the US accept the Common Application, including some in the Ivy League. The Common Application is an online college application that can be submitted to more than 456 colleges and universities in place of the school's individual application.

Reveal Something Unique About Yourself

A student should write a college application essay that distinguishes them from other applicants. For example, writing about playing a niche instrument or winning an Olympic medal can help students stand out from other applicants.

The primary benefit of using the Common Application is that submitting a standard form will save you time. If you find the college process stressful, the Common Application frees you up to focus on your college essays, visit schools or otherwise prepare for college.