Application strategies make applying to college hassle-free

Applying to college or university can be a daunting process but there’s help.

At Lakeland College this year, one of the newest ways launched to make the process go more smoothly is a new provincial online application system called ApplyAlberta.

Lakeland College piloted the new system at its Open House held last month. As a pilot site, Lakeland is the first college in Alberta to use the new online system to accept applications.

Within the next few months, everyone wanting to attend college and university in Alberta will submit their applications using the new online application process.

Daniel Allchurch, a resident of Lloydminster, Alta., was the first person to use the system at Lakeland. He applied to begin the wildlife and fisheries conservation program in the fall of 2010.

In addition to online applications, Lakeland College has several resources in place to help make the process easier for new applicants. Personalized support services provided by a team of enrolment specialists and admissions staff play a very important role.

For students who aren’t sure which program is for them, a phone call to an enrolment specialist, a campus visit, or a chat with a faculty member are always good strategies, says Jo-Ann Mones, associate registrar at Lakeland.

“There are so many options and it’s important to get into the program that’s right for you,” says Mones. “At Lakeland, we also keep in close contact with new student applicants to make sure that all their documentation is received on time so that acceptance isn’t delayed.”

Another good application strategy recommended by Mones is to apply early.

“Several programs fill up quickly and are in great demand. It is not uncommon for people to submit their application up to a year in advance, even before they get their final grade 12 marks,” says Mones.

At Lakeland College this year, students are also able to apply early based on Grade 11 marks – and depending on their program choice, they may qualify for an academic scholarship.

“Applying to college or university is a big and important step. If you need help or direction, we can help find the best answers for you,” says Mones.

For more information about Lakeland College, go to www.lakelandcollege.ca.