
Application 101
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With so much information about applications and the steps you need to complete them, we decided to break it down into the basics.
Create a College List in Naviance Under "Colleges I am Applying to"
- Choose appropriate application platform: UC Application/ CSU Application/ Direct Application/ Common Application/ Coalition Application/ The Common Black College Application
- Check the due dates for each school
- Decide how and when you will apply? The most common choices are Early Decision/Early Action, typically with a November 1 deadline, or Regular Decision typically with a January deadline
- Select an option
If you are ONLY applying to UCs and CSUs, follow these steps:
- Make sure each UC and CSU you are applying to is listed in Naviance
- Create a UC Application and CSU Application account, and write down your passwords
- Complete the applications. You will need an unofficial copy of your transcript—available in the Aeries portal or your counselor
- You do not need letters of recommendation for UCs or CSUs
- You do not send an official transcript
- For UCs, you will write 4 short essays (350 words). These are called the Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)
- For CSUs, there are NO essays
- UCs and CSUs are test-blind. Please see each system's website for further information
- CSU application opens October 1 and is due by November 30
- UC Application opens August 1. Can be submitted between October 1 and November 30
If you are applying using the Common Application, follow these steps:
- Create a Common App account
- Using the college search tab, enter the college. Fill out all the information needed in the Common App
- Waive your FERPA rights and then match your Common App account under Naviance
- Write a 650-word personal statement. You may also need to write supplemental essays for individual colleges (check requirements for each Common App school)
- Make sure you have asked teachers for a LOR, if needed
- If applicable, order your standardized test scores to be sent to the colleges. You do not need to send AP scores
- Order transcript/s via Google Doc
- Send official transcripts from any other schools you have taken coursework
Check if you need a Letter of Recommendation? Most Common App schools require LOR
- If a teacher LOR is needed, ask IN PERSON
- Login to Naviance and navigate to the Letter of Recommendation section under the Colleges tab
- Using the drop-down menu, select your teacher, then click the schools you would like a LOR sent. Click request
- Complete a teacher brag sheet, if needed
- Go to the CIRCLE ICON in the top right corner with your initials on it, then Surveys From Your School, then Counselor Brag Sheet- Student and complete it
- Submit your Brag Sheet to your counselor through Naviance by September 1
- Parents must also fill out the brag sheet by September 1 (found in the same location as the student brag sheet when logged in as a parent)
Fill out the FAFSA, which opens on December 1, 2023