What to Do Before the Common App Opens on August 1

The summer before senior year is ideal for starting college applications. This guide outlines steps students can take now to reduce future stress and enhance their applications, offering a roadmap for achieving their dreams.

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Finalize Your College List

• Create a balanced list of reach, match, and safety schools.

• Confirm which ones accept the Common App (most do, but not all).

• Note each school’s application deadlines, testing policy, and required materials.

  
  

Start Your Common App Essay

• Review the 2025-2026 Common App essay prompts (they haven’t changed from last year).

• Brainstorm stories that reflect your personality, values, and growth.

• Draft a personal essay this summer while the pressure is low.

• Focus on being authentic, not perfect.

Build Your Activities List and Resume

• List up to 10 activities, jobs, or responsibilities from high school.

• Practice writing 150-character descriptions that focus on impact.

• Rank them by importance to you.

• Create a simple 1-page resume to help with future applications and recommendations.

Ask for Letters of Recommendation

• Reach out to 1-2 teachers (preferably from junior year in core subjects).

• Also ask your school counselor if required.

• Provide a short resume or "brag sheet" to help them write specific, strong letters.

• Ask now, before the fall rush.

Gather Your Application Materials

You'll need:

• An unofficial transcript

• Test scores (if applicable)

• Parent/guardian information (education, job, contact info)

• List of awards and honors

• Social Security Number (for FAFSA and financial aid)

Financial Aid & FSA ID

• Create an FSA ID for both student and one parent.

• Learn the basics of FAFSA and CSS Profile.

• Start searching for scholarships and noting their deadlines.

Stay Organized

• Make a college application tracker in Google Sheets or a notebook.

• Include deadlines, requirements, and essay status for each school.

• Set a timeline for completing each part of the application.

Bonus Tip: Start Prepping Supplemental Essays

• Many schools reuse similar prompts year to year.

• Look up last year’s supplemental essays for your top-choice schools.

• Begin brainstorming or outlining common questions like:

  • "Why this college?"

  • "Describe an extracurricular activity."

🎁 Free College Application Tracker!

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The college process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By using this summer to get organized, write thoughtfully, and build momentum, you’ll be ahead of the game when applications open on August 1.

Dreams don’t chase themselves, but with the right tools and planning, you’re more than ready to chase yours.