The college application process can seem daunting, especially for students and families going through it for the first time. You may have questions about how to get started or what materials to include in applications. The U.S. News Apply to College guide offers answers to assist you, from tips if you are just beginning to brainstorm essay topics to advice on what to do if you've been placed on a waitlist.
Choose your topic area of interest in the guide below – including the college essay, extracurricular activities, standardized tests, recommendation letters, early action and early decision admissions, waitlists and transferring – and you'll see a list of articles filled with advice on how to effectively navigate that part of the application process.
What Should I Know About the College Application Process?
To apply to college, keep in mind that you need to start early in high school and do your research to find the right fit. The following articles offer advice on how to get into college.
What Should I Know About Applying to Different Types of Colleges?
From smaller liberal arts colleges to bigger public universities, you have a lot of school types to consider. Here's what to keep in mind about applying to different schools.
What Tips Should I Know About My College Essay?
Use the college essay to give admissions officers insight into who you are. The tips in these articles will help you tackle the application essay with confidence.
What Should I Know About Extracurricular Activities?
Colleges want to know how you spend time outside of the classroom, such as in clubs or jobs. Read on to learn about the role of extracurricular activities in college applications.
How Important Are Standardized Test Scores?
Schools have varying policies when it comes to admissions tests like the SAT and ACT. Here's what you need to know about college entrance exams.
What Do I Need to Know About Recommendation Letters?
Applications typically require recommendation letters written by people who know you well. Read the following articles to find out who, when and how to ask for letters.
Should I Apply to College Early?
Some colleges offer early decision or early action admissions, in which you find out if you got in before other applicants. These articles weigh the pros and cons of applying early.
How Should I Handle the Application if I'm an International Student?
Applying to U.S. universities as an international student can be challenging. The articles below can help you understand the admissions process if you're applying from abroad.
What Should I Know About Waitlists?
A college may put you on a waitlist and not offer you a spot until after the typical May 1 decision deadline. Here's what you need to know if you're wait-listed.
What Do I Need to Know When Transferring Schools?
Transferring may make sense if your college isn't a good fit or you want to finish a degree at a four-year school after community college. Read tips below on transferring schools.
Best Colleges Rankings
For students who need help narrowing down the list of colleges and universities to apply to, the U.S. News Best Colleges rankings can serve as a good starting point.
Recommended Articles
Vaping Essays: E-Cigarette Sellers Offering Scholarships
June 8, 2018
E-cigarette, vaporizer sellers find college scholarships as way to promote brands.
A Brighter Future for Los Angeles Youth
June 8, 2018
Los Angeles Extended Foster Care youth work hard to achieve the American Dream.
Merit-Based Tuition Waivers at Public Schools
June 4, 2018
Some public institutions offer merit-based waivers or presidential scholarships to reduce the out-of-state portion of tuition.
10 Key Places to See on College Tours
June 4, 2018
Explore campus facilities and fixtures after you've gone on the official college tour.
Ranking Schools for Foreign Students
May 30, 2018
U.S. News used six indicators of international student support and success to evaluate eligible National Universities.
6 U.S. College Safety Resources
May 29, 2018
Colleges have several offices that are focused to some extent on international student safety and well-being.
Maintain Mental Health Therapy on Campus
May 29, 2018
Here's what parents and new college students can do to ensure continuity of care.
How to Win a National Merit Scholarship
May 24, 2018
In addition to earning a high score on the PSAT, high school students will need to put together an impressive application.
Know This About College Meal Plans
May 23, 2018
Some college meal plans can cost more than $6,000 for one academic year.
Consider Starting U.S. College in Spring
May 22, 2018
Prospective international students who don't apply for fall admission can use the extra time to prepare for studying in the U.S.