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By Kris
One of the most stressful times in a student’s life is the college and graduate school application process. The sheer number of tasks involved, from researching schools and programs to applying for financial aid and scholarships, can make anyone feel overwhelmed. However, there are many strategies you can employ to help you get organized and reduce the stress associated with this important process. In this post, Homeschooling Teen offers some tips on how to tame the application process and make it more manageable.
Research Schools and Programs
Before you start applying, it’s essential to research and identify schools and programs that align with your academic and career goals. IvyWise notes to start by asking yourself: What do I want to study? What type of school or program am I interested in? Once you have a list of target schools, start researching all aspects of each program, including admission requirements, faculty, and course offerings. Keep a spreadsheet or a document with all the information you need about each school.
Create a File Folder or Binder for Each School
One of the easiest ways to stay on top of the application process is by creating a file folder or binder for each school. Keep track of all application materials, including essays, transcripts, recommendation letters, and test scores. This way, you’ll be able to access and update these materials quickly and easily as you move through the application process.
Use an Online Tool to Convert Your Applications Into Editable PDFs
Submitting application materials to college admissions offices should be a breeze. To make it easier, you can use an online tool to convert your applications into PDFs so they’re easy for anyone to access and edit. And when you need to enable signature functions for your PDFs, this site could be helpful.
Break Down the Application Process Into Smaller Tasks
One of the most significant sources of stress when it comes to applying to college or graduate school is feeling overwhelmed by the number of tasks involved. To make things easier, The Princeton Review suggests breaking down the application process into smaller, more manageable tasks. Create a to-do list that includes each step in the process, such as researching schools, drafting essays, and requesting recommendation letters. This way, you’ll be able to take things one step at a time and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Create a Timeline With Deadlines
To ensure you complete all of your application materials on time, create a timeline with deadlines for each task. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time between each deadline so you don’t feel rushed or overwhelmed. Include deadlines for admission requirements, financial aid applications, and scholarship applications.
Use a Grammar and Writing Tool
To help you catch errors and refine your writing, use a grammar or writing tool. These tools can help you catch typos, grammar errors, and awkward sentence structures. Investing in one of these tools can save you from having to pay for professional editing in the long run.
Research and Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships
Don’t let the cost of education stand in the way of pursuing your dreams. The good news is that financial aid and scholarships can help ease the burden of tuition fees and other expenses. So, start hitting up Google and do your research. You never know what kind of opportunities are out there waiting for you.
Applying to college or graduate school doesn’t have to be a stressful or overwhelming process. By breaking down the application process into smaller, more manageable tasks, using online tools to keep track of your application materials, and creating a timeline with deadlines, you can stay on top of the process and reduce the stress involved. By following these tips and strategies, you’ll be one step closer to achieving your academic and career goals.
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