Finally hitting "Submit" on a college application is a huge relief. Yes, the hardest work is done, but the waiting game for college decisions is a more active process than you might expect.
Here are some potential next steps after college application submission:
Set up and check college portals
Typically within a few days after application submission, the college will send the student an email with instructions for setting up his/her online portal for the school.
The portal will update the student on application status, explain next steps, notify the student of missing information, etc.
Students should check their college portals weekly for updates, so keeping all of the portal links in one online document can be helpful.
As an aside, students should also be mindful of checking their email regularly during this period.
SSAR/SRAR and Other Third-Party Platforms for Reporting Courses & Grades
Some colleges require that students report their high school courses and grades on a third-party platform after application submission.
Typically the requirement is noted in college application.
Students will usually be provided instructions and deadlines in their college portal or via email after application submission.
Be Prepared for Extra Essays/Video Submissions/Program & Scholarship Applications
Some colleges may surprise students with an additional essay after application submission. Typically, notification is provided through the college portal. This is a rare occurrence, fortunately.
A small number of schools offer students the option of submitting a short video to supplement their application. Info is generally provided in the college portal.
Students interested in honors or scholars programs, certain scholarships, living/learning communities, or other special programs will have additional requirements to complete. Information is typically included in either the college application, the college portal, or via email.
Send Official Test Scores if Required
Many colleges allow students to self-report their ACT/SAT scores during the application process and only require official scores if the student enrolls.
Some schools do require official scores from the testing agency, however. Typically, notification of this requirement is provided in the college application, and it will often be noted in the student's college portal.
Upload Art/Architecture Portfolio or Performing Arts Audition Submissions
Some colleges allow for submissions in the application, but more often, portfolio and audition submissions occur after application submission.
Instructions are typically provided through the college portal or via email, and sometimes instructions are also provided in the college application.
Update Application for Regular Decision Applications
Students who send Early Action/Rolling/Early Decision/Restrictive Early Action applications though the Common App or similar platform in the fall will need to update their GPA and senior year fall grades (if required by the college) for Regular Decision applications. Students may also have updates to their activities and honors.
At Growing2College, we guide students through each step of the college application process. Request a free 20-min consultation to learn more about how we can be helpful.
Kate Pedigo, M.Ed. NCC is an Independent Educational Consultant and founder of Growing2College. Join us on social media for college planning updates, tips, and resources: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn
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