College Application Checklist: Everything You Need to Submit

Summary: Use this master checklist to stay on track across every component of your college application — from testing to financial aid. Work through each section with your family and counselor before deadlines hit.

1) Standardized Testing

• SAT or ACT score(s) sent directly from College Board / ACT
• AP/IB scores (if required by school)
• Test-optional strategy documented for each school
• Score reporting deadlines confirmed per application portal

2) Academic Records

• Official high school transcript requested from counselor
• Mid-year report sent if required (check each school)
• Dual enrollment or college course transcripts included

3) Essays & Writing Supplements

• Common App personal statement finalized (650-word limit)
• School-specific supplements drafted and reviewed
• Activity descriptions (150 characters each) finalized
• Additional information section completed if applicable

4) Letters of Recommendation

• 2 teacher recommendations requested and confirmed
• Counselor recommendation sent (brag sheet submitted)
• Optional additional recommender asked if value-add is clear
• Waiver of access right signed for each recommender

5) Application Components

• Common App or Coalition App profile complete
• School-specific portal accounts created for each target
• ED/EA/RD decision plan confirmed and documented
• Application fees paid (or fee waiver requested)
• Interviews scheduled or completed where available

6) Financial Aid Documents

• FAFSA filed (open October 1; file as early as possible)
• CSS Profile submitted for schools that require it
• Tax return and W-2s gathered for income verification
• Merit scholarship applications filed separately if needed

7) Deadline Tracking

• Early Decision I deadlines: typically Nov 1–15
• Early Action deadlines: typically Nov 1–15
• Regular Decision deadlines: typically Jan 1–15
• Financial aid priority deadlines confirmed per school
• Scholarship deadlines added to your calendar separately

8) After Submission

• Confirmation emails saved for each application submitted
• Application portal logins saved (one per school)
• First quarter/semester grades sent if required
• Scholarship and housing deadlines tracked post-admission

Get help reviewing your application checklist →