With the first semester of the 2025-2026 school year coming to an end, Sterling High School. seniors are beginning college preparation. Whether it be by filling out early applications, completing their Common Application, or filing for FAFSA, the seniors are working hard.
Many seniors have been focusing on submitting their applications early to qualify for early action. Early action is when colleges get back to you in the fall, rather than in the winter or spring, on whether or not you were accepted. Early action helps students prepare earlier for college and can lead to an early decision. Submitting applications early is also nice because many colleges waive fees until after November 1st. Senior Isabella Sylvester has “applied to colleges early so, [she] doesn’t have to pay a bunch of fees”
While the college application process can be stressful and overwhelming, there are some tips and tricks that make it that much easier. Common Application, usually referred to as Common App, is a website that makes applying for college simple. Students just need to register and fill out their basic information, which seems long and time consuming, however it is completely worth it. After filling out all the necessary information, students can add colleges to their list, and apply directly to these colleges via Common App.
Senior Carlee Hawkins “like[s] that Common App [took] away the stress of having to look up and fill out a ton of different applications.” Many seniors would agree that this website makes applying a breeze. Guidance counselor Mrs. Francis finds that “Common App is helpful if you are applying to several colleges (5 or more). Otherwise, I find it best to just apply directly on the college’s website”.
FAFSA is another well-known component of the college application process. FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Essentially, you fill out and apply for FAFSA using things like your household income, marital status, etc. You then get feedback on how much money you are eligible to earn to pay for college.
As a message to this year’s seniors, applying for colleges can seem like a lot but you have many resources available. Start applying and good luck!
