The Anatomy of a College ApplicationJonathon Milian

CAP Advisor

• In order to get your college application together, you need to get many different pieces together to give the admission team a glimpse into what you are. Be sure to stay organized and find out what items you have to send.

• The pieces of your college application add up to give admission officers an idea of who you are.

• Not every college requires every one of these elements such as a TEST OPTIONAL college which doesn’t require you to send admission test scores. Some colleges may not require Letters of Recommendations or essays.

Application Forms• Fill in all the blanks on the application form itself. • Most students use online applications, but paper

applications are usually available too. • Common Application let’s you complete one application

online and submit it to several colleges at once.

Application Fees

• They vary but generally cost between $35 to $75.

• Fees are nonrefundable.

• Many colleges offer fee waivers to students who can’t afford to pay them.

Your High School

Transcript• Record of

classes you have taken.

• Your high school sends your transcript if you request it.

Final Transcript

• At the end of senior year, you are responsible for requesting your final transcript be sent to the university you are attending.

Admission Test Scores• Some colleges require or recommend that

you send scores from tests such as the SAT or ACT.

• Colleges accept scores only from the testing organizations themselves.

Letters of Recommendatio

n• Many colleges, but not all

require a letter of recommendation.

• They should come from a teacher, counselor, or adult who knows you well.

• Ask your references well in advance of the deadline.

• Giving the person writing a letter of recommendation some background information about yourself or a resume will really help.

Essays• The essay or

personal statement allows you to give the admission officer a better idea of who you are.

Auditions & Portfolios• If you are applying to music, art, or theater

programs, the colleges may want to see samples of your work.

• You may have to audition as a result.• Sometimes it is a good idea to request for an

interview even if it is not required.