How to Deal with Stress While Applying for College or University

Breathe easy when applying for post-secondary by recognizing and overcoming stress.

What does your mental health look like during this season of post-secondary applications? If you are anything like the students polled in a survey commissioned by the National Association for College Admission Counselling, conducted by the Harris Poll, you find that applying to college or university may be the most stressful academic experience you’ve ever had.

Finding all the right information, choosing the perfect school, getting to know the school, and getting those applications just right — all while getting the grades you need... these can be stressful times indeed!

6 ways to keep stress under control

So how can you take care of your mental health during this overwhelming season? Here are some reminders that can help:

1. Know when you start to feel stressed. Are you irritable, not sleeping well, or procrastinating? These can all be signs the pressure is getting to you. Knowing there's a problem is always the first step toward addressing it.

2. Balance hard work with rest. Those who work hard should rest well! While you tend to your current responsibilities and look toward the future, make sure you keep free moments that are just for rest. This can look like using a free period in your schedule to relax, or making sure your weekends aren’t just about catching up on work. Take a break, go out with a friend, or watch your favourite show. Take some time to recharge.

3. Don’t neglect other parts of life: hobbies, exercise, and social life. Doing what you love can chip away at some of the stress. Do what you must do and make room for what you enjoy — the things that give you energy.

4. Remember that your community is important. We are not meant to live life alone; we need others. Call or visit a loved one, confide in a trusted friend, find a good mentor, or download wellness apps that offer great resources and help you feel less overwhelmed. Caring people around you can lessen the load.

5. Develop financial literacy. Sometimes the stress of applying is about how you will afford college or university. Budget, invest, and save. Ask about the many resources available to help you afford school.

6. Take care of your overall health. Develop a sleep routine, fuel yourself with good food, keep your living space clean and uncluttered, and move your body. Good general health can promote better mental health.

Now let’s get into the whole “applying for schools” part

If you're considering more than one school, decision making can be a hugely stressful part of the process. Making a point to visit a campus or chat with an admissions officer can be super helpful. Students often decide on a school to attend once they see it in person. Getting more information about the school you are considering doesn’t hurt either.

At Tyndale University, Admissions Counsellors are ready to answer any questions you have about our programs, the Tyndale community, residence, and financial aid. A Tyndale counsellor can be the “good mentor” who helps you narrow your path.

Tyndale’s Financial Aid Office, too, has tons of resources that will show you how affordable Tyndale University is for every student. They can tell you about the scholarships and awards that cut tuition costs by almost 50%!

In addition, our next “A Day in the Life” campus visit event will give you a chance to get a real look at what it means to be a student at Tyndale University.

Learn more about how Tyndale could be a good fit for you on the Find Yourself website.