Step 1: Explore Your Options

Start by researching schools that match your goals, interests, and budget. Consider:

• Type of school: 2-year (community college), 4-year (university or college), or technical program
• Programs offered: Majors, certificates, or career pathways
• Location: In-state, out-of-state, or close to home
• Cost: Use net price calculators and financial aid pages to estimate your costs
• Campus life: Student support, clubs, housing, and more

Need help figuring it out? Our advisors can help you build a personalized college list that fits your needs.

Step 2: Know What You’ll Need to Apply

To apply to college, know the key parts of the process—most schools require some or all of the following: 

• Application form (ApplyTexas, Common App, or school-specific) 
• High school transcript 
• SAT or ACT scores (if required) 
• Essays or personal statements
• Letters of recommendation
• Application fee or fee waiver
   

Pro Tip: Start early! Gathering these items in senior year—or even junior year—can save you time later. 

Step 3: Keep Track of Deadlines

Deadlines matter and they vary by school! There are usually four main types: 

• Regular Decision application deadlines are typically January 1. However, check your school’s deadline as some may before or after the common deadline date. Most colleges release their decisions in spring. 
• Early Action (EA) is a non-binding option that allows students to apply to colleges early—typically by early to mid-November—and receive a decision in December through February. Students accepted through EA are not required to commit and can still apply to other schools.
• Early Decision (ED) is a binding option for students who have a clear first-choice school. If accepted, the student must enroll and withdraw all other applications. Deadlines are usually in early to mid-November, with decisions released in December or January. 
• Rolling Admissions is when colleges review applications as they’re received.

Pro Tip: Be sure to check application deadlines and decision timeframes for the specific colleges you intend to apply to. 

Step 4: Complete and Submit Your Applications

Choose the platform(s) your colleges use: 

• ApplyTexas is used by most public colleges and universities in Texas.
• Common App is accepted by over 1,000 colleges and universities nationwide.
• Some colleges use school-specific apps. This can be found on individual college websites.

Here are a few things you need to be sure of when you are applying:

• Review each application carefully before submitting. 
• Save login info and confirmation emails. 

Step 5: Apply for Financial Aid

Don’t miss out on funding—complete the FAFSA application. This gives you access to grants, scholarships, work-study, and student loans. 

Visit our Financial Aid page to get started. 

Step 6: Follow Up

After you apply be sure to consider the next steps in your college application process:

• Check your email and college portals regularly for updates or missing items. 
• Submit transcripts, test scores, or recommendation letters if requested. 
• Apply for scholarships (some schools have separate scholarship apps).