As your senior year begins, the college application process will
intensify. To help you manage your time, the Stevens undergraduate
admissions staff has prepared a checklist of important steps in the
application process you'll need to complete this fall:
Recommendation Letters
Many schools require letters of recommendation. Your teachers and
guidance counselors will have many requests from students, so be sure
to ask them early! Let them know what you'd like them to focus on, such
as particular courses you excelled in, leadership in student groups,
community service, et cetera.
Essays
Most colleges require an essay or personal statement. Begin early
by making an outline, noting your accomplishments, goals, and any
stories you want to tell. After you've written your essay or essays, be
sure to share them with a teacher or your parents. It's always good to
have another set of eyes read your work!
Interviews
If the schools you are applying to require in-person interviews, be
sure to call well in advance to schedule your interview. Give yourself
plenty of time to prepare for your interview -- do practice interviews
with your family or friends, make sure you have appropriate
professional clothing, and make notes on the accomplishments you would
like to highlight.
Tests
Be sure to schedule test dates if you still need to take the SAT, ACT,
or AP exams. Need help preparing? Visit the Web sites below for helpful
hints:
SAT: www.collegeboard.com/student/index.html?student
ACT: www.actstudent.org/
AP: www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/ap/about.html
Early Decision/Early Action
Many colleges offer either Early Decision or Early Action. Policies
differ, and can often be confusing. For an example of an Early
Decision policy, view Stevens' at www.stevens.edu/undergrad/earlydecision.
Financial Aid
Begin conducting searches for scholarships. Look online or ask your
guidance counselor for help. Attend financial aid workshops offered by
universities or your high school. To learn more about financial aid and
scholarship opportunities, visit www.fastweb.com.
Campus Visits
The best way to get a feel for any campus is to visit! If you haven't
already, be sure to schedule your campus visit and make any necessary
travel arrangements.
To view more helpful college search resources, visit www.stevens.edu/undergrad/resources.html.
If you have any questions about the application process, do not
hesitate to call the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at (800)
458-5323 or e-mail admissions@stevens.edu.