Application Forms

Apply Yourself!

There are several ways to apply to most colleges.  Once you know to which schools you would like to apply, check out your options.

Online vs. Paper
Most colleges offer both paper and online applications, but many prefer the online versions.  Some colleges will actually waive the application fee if you apply online, so it is worth your time to double check.  To request a printed version of a college application, call the college or visit its web site.  Both online and paper applications will ask for the same information, and it is extremely important for you to PROOFREAD both types of applications.  If you don't know how to answer some of the questions, save the application and come back to it later.  Do not just guess!

Online applications will still require the same supporting documentation as a paper application.  It is your responsibility to make sure all materials (transcripts, resumes, essays, application fees) get there prior to the deadline.  Be sure to let your counselor or advisor know that you need a transcript sent.  Read the application carefully for specific instructions on how to send the rest, and call the college if you have any questions.

Remember to PROOFREAD everything that you submit, whether online on on paper.  Sure, use spellcheck, but you KNOW that you can't completely trust spellcheck!  ("There" and "their" are both spelled correctly, but mean completely different things, for instance.)  Read everything carefully before you submit it, whether on paper or online.  Better yet, let your mom or some other eagle-eyed person proof it before you send it in.

Common Application and Black Common Application

These applications allow you to apply to multiple schools via one application.  To see a list of the schools that accept either of these applications, check the Common Application and Black Common Application websites.  (The schools that use the Black Common Application are historically Black colleges and universities.)  Some schools use the Common Application as their only application (such as Harvard, Vanderbilt, and Agnes Scott), while some will let you apply using either the Common Application or the school's own application (such as Belmont).  These colleges treat both applications equally, so there is no disadvantage in using the Common Application.  You can apply via the Common Application or Black Common Application through a paper or online application. 

If you use either version of the Common Application, be sure to check each college's requirements for deadlines, application fees and additional documentation. Many colleges will have a supplemental questionnaire that you need to fill out along with the Common Application. Your application will not be complete until all of the information is submitted. All supplementary forms can be found on the Common Application web site.

And did we mention that you should PROOFREAD everything?