How to Apply for College

Apply to College in Seven Easy Steps 

Step 1: Sketch Out Your Long-Term Goals 

Before conducting research or opening applications, you should first embark on a bit of self-discovery. Explore why you want to pursue higher education, what subjects interest you, and where your strengths and weaknesses lie. Making time for introspection can help clarify your career goals and outline the steps you need to take to achieve them. 

Beyond academics, think about what kind of student experience you’d like to create for yourself. Do you want to move out of state? Study abroad? Or would you prefer to stay closer to home? Or maybe work and attend school part time? Understanding your priorities and what you hope to gain from your college experience helps guide your research. 

Step 2: Determine Where You Want to Apply 

Now that you’ve outlined what’s important and what you’re looking for in a college or university, you can start crafting your list of colleges. Typically, individuals begin by reviewing the schools close to them or those with a family tie. 

But we recommend exploring options beyond what may feel familiar to find the school that most closely aligns with your goals and priorities. You can use online databases like CollegeXpress, College Board, or College Navigator to discover schools in the U.S. and worldwide. With filters that allow you to customize your search by affordability, major, safety, and other factors, these sites can make your search more efficient and connect you with your dream school.   

As you narrow your search, be sure to consider the following:  

• Where is the school located?
  • A school’s location is a pivotal factor since it determines whether you’ll need to relocate and find housing or if you can commute. You may also want to choose the surrounding environment you prefer. Are you looking for a fast-paced student experience in a downtown area? Or maybe a quieter rural setting for your studies? 

• How much does it cost?
  • College is a significant investment, and you want to ensure you understand the total costs you may incur if you select that school. Be sure to factor in tuition, fees, room and board, and other potential expenses. This is also a great time to explore the types of financial aid a college offers, including scholarships and grants.  

• What will I study?
  • Besides choosing a school that offers an academic degree that interests you, we recommend exploring other aspects of the program beyond the discipline. Consider the format of instruction (e.g., online, in-person, or hybrid), available research options, internship opportunities, study abroad programs, faculty members, industry connections, and more.  

Step 3: Review Admission Requirements  

After identifying a solid list of colleges and universities, your next step is to carefully review the admissions criteria for each institution to which you will apply. 

We suggest connecting with the school in some way during this step. Scheduling an appointment with an admissions counselor or visiting the campus are some of the best ways to get personalized support and feedback on how your academic background aligns with the school’s admissions requirements. Alternatively, you can attend a virtual information session to learn more about the application process.  

If you are a transfer or international student, you may be required to meet additional eligibility criteria. To ensure your credit transfer or relocation goes smoothly, meet with an admissions counselor from the school who has extensive knowledge of your student journey.  

Step 4: Prepare Your Application Materials 

Equipped with the support from your admission counselor and a firm understanding of the admissions requirements, you can now gather and assemble your application materials. While every college application requires different items, they typically include some or all of the following:  

• Online application 
• Official high school transcripts or GED 
• Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, etc.)  
• Personal statement or essay 
• Letters of recommendation 

At Central Washington University, we don’t require SAT and ACT scores.  

If you’re applying to numerous schools, we recommend creating a schedule to help you meet all your application deadlines. This also gives you plenty of time to request your transcripts, draft your essays, or contact your mentors, professors, or employers who may provide your letter of recommendation. 

Step 5: Submit Your Application  

Once your application materials are compiled, you can submit your college application! But before you click “apply,” double-check all your materials to ensure there are no grammatical errors or inaccurate information. You may even want a trusted friend, a high school counselor, or a teacher to review your application. Having another person proofread your materials offers added confidence that your application is flawless and ready for review. 

Step 6: Apply for Financial Aid 

While you are waiting for your admissions decision, we recommend submitting your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA). Whatever your financial situation, applying for financial aid can help you qualify for grants, scholarships, and loans, lowering the cost of your degree.  

To streamline the application process, have your federal tax information, bank statements, other income information, Social Security number, and parents’ SSNs available before starting the FAFSA.  

Step 7: Accept Your Offer of Admission 

Depending on when you applied, you should start receiving admissions decisions in a few months. You'll probably hear back sooner if you applied to a school like Central Washington University that utilizes rolling admissions, which means there are no formal deadlines.  

While each school may have specific acceptance deadlines, there’s no rush to finalize your decision. In the U.S., May 1 is National Decision Day, so you have time to evaluate the pros and cons of each school and give this important decision the consideration it deserves.  

Once you decide on the school you want to attend, follow the steps outlined in the acceptance letter. They will guide you through formally accepting the offer and submitting your deposit.  

Congratulations, you’re ready to begin your college adventure! 

Make CWU Your Next Step 

Uncover your potential at Central Washington University. Here, you join a long-standing tradition of innovation and a student community dedicated to excellence and authenticity.   

Choose from more than 135 majors designed to enrich your education, strengthen critical thinking, and prepare you for an ever-evolving world. Wherever your goals may take you, let Central help you along the way.  

Ready to become a Wildcat?