By Luna Dominic, @deca.luna_ | Florida Atlantic University, FL
From exciting senior events to college decisions, there’s a lot to keep track of in the last few months of a senior’s high school career. For those navigating the college decision period, there are a few key points to keep in mind to stay organized and proactive before graduation.
If You’ve Been Accepted
Receiving an acceptance is an exciting moment that you should be proud of – but you’re not finished just yet. While this may vary per institution, there are typically a few important next steps you should follow.
Students who are confident in their attendance at a school should confirm their enrollment and submit the enrollment deposit by that school’s deadline to secure admission to the incoming class. Some colleges also require incoming students to register for orientation to meet with an advisor, learn about university resources and get a glimpse of student life!
It’s also important to review your financial aid package when it becomes available. Review scholarships, loans, grants and the estimated cost of attendance with your family to help make informed decisions based on your needs. If your living circumstances have changed, you may be able to submit a request for an additional review.
Students should also research housing and roommate options.
- Research the institution’s policies on housing. For example, some universities guarantee on-campus housing, while others do not, and this may vary per academic year (first-year, second-year, etc). Consider housing options per university policy and gather information on dorms, residence halls and even off-campus housing.
- To find a roommate, schools may have an option to complete a roommate survey through their housing portal to find a “match,” but you may also be able to connect with prospective students on Instagram class pages (ex, University of [blank] Class of 2030).
Whether or not you’ve committed to a school, it’s important to become familiar with the application portal to see what’s next on your checklist – you don’t always have to be 100% committed to get a head start on these tasks!
If You've Been Waitlisted
Being waitlisted means a school is still considering you, but couldn’t offer you admission for that round. Admission via waitlist is not guaranteed, but it’s an opportunity to follow up with the institution and show your commitment to their program!
If you’ve been offered the opportunity to join the waitlist, you should check the school's deadline for opting in. Failure to opt in may result in your application being removed from the second-round review.
Students should also research the school’s policies on submitting additional materials, such as a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) or form, through the application portal or via email. These materials allow students to solidify their interest in the school and to share any updates on their grades, extracurriculars, awards, etc.
It’s important to confirm whether a school allows additional materials – students should avoid sending new materials if a school asks them to refrain.
If You've Been Rejected
Receiving a rejection can be disappointing, but it’s important to remember that a decision like this is not a measure of your achievements, hard work or academic potential. Take time to process it, and continue exploring other programs you’re still waiting on or have heard back from.
Keep an open mind and have faith that you’ll end up at the school you’re meant to be at!
Moving Forward
Seniors, keep track of your college applications and note important deadlines to stay organized in your final months of high school. Make sure to enjoy the process and be proud of how far you’ve come.
Good luck with your decisions, and congratulations on all the hard work you’ve invested in your futures!
