10 Things To Avoid in College Application Form

Every year, a large number of students send millions of applications to colleges, and unfortunately, many of them contain mistakes. Applying to college is a stressful time for any student. College applications can be complex. Mistakes happen, but with careful attention to a few important details, you can avoid the most common college application mistakes. Many decisions cause stress for teenagers during the application process in college by deciding between applying the early or regular decision to figuring out a topic for the perfect admissions.

The college application process strikes fear into the hearts of students and their parents as well. The application form is a crucial element of the college admission process. Most of the students take enough time to fill out the application form without hastening is crucial to successfully fill it out. Here are some things should avoidable in a college application form:

1. Not reading the instructions properly

The first mistake students tend to make is not properly reading the instructions and guidelines and directly jumping on the questions. This may be the reason to make errors in your application form. It is suggested to spend some time in reading the guidelines and instructions to know what each question demands. If you’re asked about extra-curricular activities then you should provide some relevant things that could increase weight to your form. If the college wants two recommendation letters, don’t send just one; if the college asks for a one-page resume, don’t send two. Read all the instructions carefully and then fill the application accordingly.

2. Incomplete Application

Many applications are rejected due to incomplete form. Students normally don’t send all the necessary documents and furthermore, many students do not double check everything on the application before sending it. As above mentioned read all the instructions carefully then collect and submit all the necessary documents such as application, passport copy, official transcripts, resume, financial statements, personal statement and letter of recommendations. If you fail to do so, you may lead to getting a rejection of your application.

3. Submitting the application form on the last minute

This is one of the most common mistakes a student make and the most avoidable as well. Filling out the application form takes a large amount of time as there are a lot of things to work on such as resume, certificates to LOR etc. if you are doing all this at the last minute, you are bound to there are strong chances to make mistakes. Furthermore, getting everything done at the last moment is difficult and you may also miss the deadline. Ultimately, your application will not be considered if it reaches the deadline.

Some colleges track the submission date as it reflects some personality traits of the students such as punctuality, discipline, and seriousness towards studies. So, it is very important to submit the application before the submission date.

4. Submitting wrong addresses

Some applications contain a space where you need to put your permanent address along with different present mailing address. For international students, it is necessary to provide a permanent address back in their home country. You should also mention your temporary address in the country you are studying.

5. Not checking email or portal

Nowadays, universities send important information and guidelines about your application, any missing documents and final decision by email or their university web portal. You should check your email regularly after you apply and follow all mentioned steps. Also, ensure you have a login for the applicant portal if that is how the university will communicate to you. If you have any doubt regarding the application process, contact to your advisor or the admission staff of the university.

6. Note positioning yourself properly

When applying for college, think about how you are positioning yourself. Think why the college invests in your future as opposed to the future of another student. What differentiate you from other students? What is your special power? What makes you unique?

Test score and good grades are not sufficient. How will you support the college community? And why does the college need to admit you?

Another common problem among students is lack of ambition. What is your aim for where you will find yourself 10 years after graduation? Many students say they want to solve problems of the world without being specific as to how they will accomplish this goal.

7. Choosing the wrong recommenders

Recommendations are very important and make the difference between acceptance and rejection of a candidate. Applicants may harm their recommenders poorly. It is important that the recommendations you make hold you in high regard and have experienced your ability to deliver impression.

8. Note listing extracurricular activities

Even the space on the form is small, yet you need to do your best to tell the college about all your co-curricular activities. Colleges want to evaluate in an application form is your outside the classroom activities. You should also mention your job if you have one. If you have won any awards, play it up. You should discuss the activities which show your leadership quality or personal responsibility.

9. Sloppy Handwriting

Make sure your application material is legible and that your handwriting can be easily readable. Applying to a college is a competitive process, if your application is too hard to read, chances are very high that a college won’t try very hard.

10. Forgetting to save online applications

When you fill out online applications, save your file as you go along. Yes, some students forget to save their document as they go along, but it is a major hassle. When you all done and press 'send', make sure the application is actually submitted.

You should read the application form carefully before filling it so that you know exactly that being asked of you. Proofreading the application form once or twice before sending it can also help you to avoid some of these common errors. It is suggested to pay attention to every detail to make your application from error-free and the best representation of your academic record.