Steps to Take After You Complete Your College Applications

Completing your college applications is a huge milestone. Take a moment to celebrate! But your college search isn’t quite over yet. In today’s blog, we’ll go over a few steps to take after you’ve submitted college applications. 

Review Acceptances

Once acceptance letters start arriving, it’s time to begin thinking about which college is the best fit for you. Following your acceptance letter, you’ll receive a financial aid letter. Review this carefully to understand the true cost of attending each school. 

A Simple 4-Step Guide for Reviewing Your Financial Aid Award Letter

Visit Campuses

Visiting a campus can help you get a better idea of what life as a student would be like there. Many colleges offer visit opportunities specifically for admitted students. At Meredith, we host Experience Meredith! | Open House and Admitted Angel Days, each of which focuses on a specific academic area, so that you can explore your intended major and connect with faculty, staff, and students. 

Visit Meredith 

Don’t Slack in the Classroom

It can be hard to focus on your classes when you’re thinking about the next chapter in your life, but it’s important to finish strong. Colleges will request your final transcript and have the option to rescind your offer if your grades drop significantly. Staying focused will help you reach your goal of starting college in the fall. 

Secure Your Spot 

Once you’re certain of which college you want to attend, you’ll want to secure your spot. Each college will have its own process, but generally, you accept the offer and submit your enrollment deposit. From there, review and accept your financial aid package and complete any required next steps. You’ll also want to notify the schools you have chosen not to attend of your decision.    

Most colleges set May 1, also known as National College Decision Day, as their enrollment deadline. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions leading up to this date. Take time to consider your options and make a choice that feels right for you.

What if You’re Wait-listed?

Being wait-listed by a college indicates that you meet the college’s admission criteria but haven’t been accepted because of space availability. It’s not an acceptance, but it’s not a rejection either. If you are wait-listed by a college you really want to attend, we recommend contacting the admissions office to make your interest clear. It’s also a good idea to look at other colleges you’re considering so you have options if you don’t move off the waitlist.