Applying to College: 6 Strategies for Success

Applying to schools is an exciting and challenging process. These six strategies will help you minimize your stress and maximize your chances of getting accepted to the school of your dreams.

1. Visit campuses first
Once you’ve researched colleges and narrowed your list to between three and eight schools, it’s time to start visiting campuses. It’s best to do this early in the process, so if you don’t “click” with a school, you won’t waste time applying—and if you love the school, you can better tailor your essays to its culture, values, and programs.

2. Keep track of deadlines
Each school has different deadlines for test scores, scholarships, financial aid forms, recommendation letters, and the application itself. To keep track of all these elements, consider using a calendar system or create a spreadsheet in Excel or Word. Ask for recommendation letters from teachers and counselors well in advance of deadlines.

3. Write irresistible essays
In your essays, demonstrate your strengths—your intellectual curiosity, leadership skills, social awareness, and passion for learning. If the school has a focus, such as architecture and design, highlight your enthusiasm for that field and any related experience you have.

4. Build winning portfolios
If the program you’re applying to requires a portfolio submission, include your best work, as well as pieces that show the range of your talent and experience.

5. Explore scholarship and financial aid options
Start researching the school’s scholarship and financial aid offerings early in the process—as this factor can make or break your decision.

6. Contact enrollment advisors
If the school has dedicated enrollment specialists who can answer questions and guide you through the application process, be sure to take advantage of their help. NewSchool of Architecture and Design in San Diego has a whole team of enrollment advisors ready to help students apply and build their portfolios.