Once a student has selected schools in which he or she is interested, applications and publications should be requested from those schools. Many applications for Massachusetts public four-year colleges and two-year colleges are available in the Guidance Resource Center. For most other colleges, students will have to write to the individual schools, call for their applications, request them from the college's website, or utilize an acceptable online website where applications are available.
It is extremely important that a student reads and follows directions contained in the information received from schools. These instructions will tell students how to fill out application forms and what additional materials they will need to submit in support of their application. Students needing assistance should see their counselor.
Students have the responsibility for knowing the specific requirements of each school to which they are applying. Seniors need to make sure they check deadlines, admission requirements, tests to be taken, etc.
Students should allow ample time to complete applications by starting as early as possible in the school year. Applications should be filled out neatly by using a computer or a black ink pen. Be aware that many schools require students to write essays. These will take time!
Students are responsible for sending the following to the college(s):
- Personal Data: a section of the application that asks for information, which must be provided by the student himself or herself (such as family data, information about extra-curricular activities, and intended course of study etc).
- The application fee: a check made out to the college for applying to the school. Application costs vary from $10 to $60 each. Fee waivers are available for students that qualify. Counselors can provide further details.
- The student essay: a sample of the student's best writing on a topic defined by the college. If an essay is optional, students who are serious about admission to that college should write an essay. Colleges typically specify the length of essays ranging from one paragraph to no more than two double-spaced, typed pages.
Application Procedures // Application Strategies // Online College Applications // The College Essay //
Sample College Essay Questions
