Life After Submit: A 4 Point Checklist For Seniors After Their College Apps Are In

The big day is here - your teen's college applications are finally in! But the anxious waiting period is just beginning. While admissions decisions are out of your hands, you can continue supporting your child. Don't let the waiting game overwhelm you - arm yourself with actionable guidance to remain engaged in the process in a positive way.

While you can't control when the decisions will arrive, here are 6 important things you can do in the meantime:


  1. Contact your schools about any updates. Let the admissions offices know promptly about any new grades you receive, new standardized test scores, special awards or honors you earn, or anything else significant that happens after submitting your application. Send them an email informing them of the updates and attach any relevant documentation or paperwork. Colleges want to be able to consider the most up-to-date information and accomplishments about you when making their admissions decisions.
  2. Check your application portals regularly. Log into the online portals for each college you applied to on a regular basis to check for any new communications, updated application requirements, interview invitations, or other messages. It's important to stay on top of notifications so you don't miss any important developments. Also verify that your contact information is correct in the portals so you receive any emails or calls.
  3. Submit financial aid forms ASAP. Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) when it is available, as this is required for federal aid consideration. You may also need to fill out the CSS Profile form for each private college that requires it in order to be eligible for institutional aid awards. Handling this financial aid paperwork promptly and meeting all deadlines is crucial for receiving aid packages from the schools.
  4. Start your scholarship search. Research local and national scholarships that align with your background, academics, talents, experiences, demographics, etc. Ask your high school guidance counselor for leads on potential scholarships to target. Creating a spreadsheet to organize the scholarship deadlines and application requirements can help you keep on track. Even small scholarship amounts add up, so apply widely.


Staying focused on these proactive steps will help make the waiting period go smoothly and productively. Before you know it, you'll be gearing up for the move to college and all the exciting new experiences ahead! With strategic planning and attention to detail, you can maximize this process and your opportunities. You got this!


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