College Application Checklist

Find the right college for you.

student looking at binder outside

Print and use this checklist to keep track of your college application requirements, tasks, and deadlines.

  • Create a balanced list of reach, match, and safety colleges     
  • Get the application     
  • Make a note of the regular application deadline     
  • Make a note of the early application deadline     
  • Request high school transcript sent     
  • Request midyear grade report sent     
  • Find out if an admission test is required     
  • Take an admission test, if required     
  • Take other required or recommended tests (e.g., AP Exams, IB exams)     
  • Send admission-test scores     
  • Send other test scores     
  • Request recommendation letters     
  • Send thank-you notes to recommendation writers     
  • Draft initial essay     
  • Proofread essay for spelling and grammar     
  • Have two people read your essay     
  • Revise your essay     
  • Proofread your revision     
  • Interview at college campus     
  • Have an alumni interview     
  • Submit FAFSA®     
  • Submit CSS PROFILE, if needed     
  • Make a note of the priority financial aid deadline     
  • Make a note of the regular financial aid deadline     
  • Complete college application     
  • Make copies of all application materials     
  • Pay application fee     
  • Sign and send application     
  • Submit college aid form, if needed     
  • Submit state aid form, if needed     
  • Confirm receipt of application materials     
  • Send additional material, if needed     
  • Tell school counselor that you applied     
  • Receive letter from office of admission     
  • Receive financial aid award letter     
  • Meet deadline to accept admission and send deposit     
  • Accept financial aid offer     
  • Notify the colleges you will not attend