FAQ 3: My parents keep telling me that I have to get my applications in early. Will that make any difference?

ANSWER: First of all, the answer to this question has nothing to do with Applying Early Action or Early Decision. If you want to know the pluses and minuses of applying through one of those programs,

Sending in an application early is almost always a good move, provided that your application is as well done as it can be. To begin with, the earlier you start completing applications, the easier your life will be. While applying early doesn’t necessarily change your chances for acceptance, admissions officers might interpret an early application as a reflection of your serious interest in their college. That in itself is not a bad thing.

On the other hand, the earlier you submit a Rolling Admission application, the better your chances for acceptance are.

H. When In Doubt, Ask
As students fill out applications, often they have questions about specific parts. Many choose to answer a question, right or wrong, and be done with it. That’s not a good choice because frequently their best guess is an incorrect one.

1. If you have questions about anything on an application, first look at the application booklet for the answer. If that doesn’t work, ask your high school or independent counselor for help.

2. If you are unsatisfied with the answer you get, then don’t hesitate to email or call the college (or application program) whose application is confusing you. Except for the large, mega-universities, most college admissions offices and application services are very responsive to students who ask for help.

I. Make Copies Of Your Applications Before You Send Them Off
As noted previously, colleges do not act on applications unless they are totally complete. It is your responsibility to make sure that every single application piece is not only sent, but also received by a college.

1. One of the most important tasks in the entire admissions process is to photocopy a finished application in its entirety before you send it off. If you do not have a copy of your finished application, you have no proof that you have completed it.

2. More importantly, if the application is lost - somewhere in Internet space or even at the admissions office - with no copy, you have no other recourse except to do it all over again. What a drag that is!