Kristin Louis
Guest Contributor
Parenting with Kris, Founder
Parentingwithkris.com

Applying to college or graduate school can be a stressful time, especially when you are juggling multiple applications at once. However, by taking some simple steps to get organized, you can greatly reduce your stress levels and feel more in control of the process. Here are some tips to help you get started, shared by The Ivy Institute.

Narrow Down Your List of Schools

Before you begin applying to schools, BigFuture notes that it is important to do some research to determine which ones align with your goals and interests. This will help you narrow down your list of potential schools and focus your efforts on the ones that are the best fit for you.

Start by researching schools online and reading reviews from current and former students. You can also attend virtual or in-person information sessions to learn more about the programs and campus culture. Make a list of the schools that interest you and rank them based on your level of interest.

Create a File Folder or Binder for Each School

Once you have identified the schools you want to apply to, create a file folder or binder for each one to keep track of application materials. Label each folder with the name of the school and include a checklist of all the materials you will need to submit. This will help you keep track of what you have already submitted and what you still need to complete. It will also make it easier to find everything you need when it comes time to submit your applications.

Save All Application Documents as PDFs

When submitting application materials, it is important to save all documents as PDFs. This will ensure that your formatting stays intact and that your documents look professional.

If you have larger documents, consider using a PDF splitter to separate them into individual files. This will make it easier to upload the documents, to help with searching, and ensure that everything is organized correctly.

Make the Application Process More Manageable

The application process can feel overwhelming, especially if you are applying to multiple schools at once. To make it more manageable, set your priorities and break down the process into smaller tasks. Create a to-do list for each school and prioritize the tasks based on their level of importance and deadlines. This will help you stay focused and ensure that you are making progress on your applications.

Stay on Track with a Timeline

In addition to breaking down the application process into smaller tasks, create a timeline with deadlines for each task. This includes even the most mundane life tasks like chores. You might start thinking about your chores differently, since you will be flying solo soon. Knowing how long you need to accomplish certain things can help you sort your days.

Establishing a timeline will also help you stay on track and ensure that you are submitting everything on time. Use a calendar or planner to map out your deadlines and set reminders for yourself. This will help you avoid procrastination and ensure that you are giving yourself enough time to complete each task.

Use a Grammar and/or Writing Tools

When it comes to submitting application materials, it is important to have error-free writing. Use a grammar and/or writing tool to help catch errors and refine your writing.

Tools like Grammarly can help identify spelling and grammar mistakes, as well as provide suggestions for improving your writing style. This will help ensure that your application materials are polished and professional.

Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships

Finally, US News & World Report advises researching and applying for financial aid and scholarships. This will help you offset the cost of tuition and reduce the amount of student loan debt you need to take on. Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal grants and loans. You can also research private scholarships and grants that you may be eligible for.

Finding a Place to Live

There are many things that can overwhelm you when you're looking at colleges. One of them is finding a place to live. Ease your mind by doing a little exploring and conduct some research of the area to find out what types of rental units are available. Use a real estate portal to search properties with filters like a price range and number of bedrooms and baths. In Atlanta, for example, you’ll find more than 2,300 apartments ready to rent.

By taking these steps to get organized and reduce stress, you can tackle the application process with confidence and ease. Remember to stay focused, stay on track, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck! 

When you choose The Ivy Institute, you gain access to a remarkable team of accomplished individuals, each with their own set of experiences and expertise. Contact us today to learn more! (404) 939-3767