Most Common College Application Mistakes and How to Avoid Them (Guest Post)
Written by Lauren, Guest Contributor & Academic Writing Coach
Applying to college can be both exciting and overwhelming. For many students, it's their first major step toward independence, and with so much at stake, it's easy to make a few missteps along the way. Unfortunately, these college application mistakes can sometimes cost students their dream school. Here, we'll walk through the most common application blunders and how to sidestep them, sharing real stories and actionable advice to help you avoid unnecessary pitfalls.
Missing Deadlines: Timing is Everything
Imagine this: Sarah, a high school senior with a stellar GPA and impressive extracurriculars, spent months perfecting her application. She was certain she had a strong chance at her dream college. But in the chaos of juggling exams, volunteer work, and a part-time job, she missed the application deadline. The college wasn’t lenient, and her late submission meant she lost her chance to apply that year.
This scenario is, unfortunately, all too common. Missed deadlines are one of the most preventable college application mistakes students make. Colleges are strict about their application timelines, so missing a deadline can sometimes be the end of the road. To avoid this:
Set reminders early: Create a calendar with key deadlines for each school.
Break down tasks: Divide the application process into manageable steps, setting internal deadlines for each.
Submit early: Aim to submit at least a week before the deadline to allow for unexpected issues, like internet problems or last-minute application errors.
Failing to Proofread: Details Matter
Typos, grammar errors, or misspelled words can seem minor, but they give admissions officers an impression of carelessness. Take the case of Alex, a senior who put a lot of effort into his personal statement but missed a typo in his dream school’s name. Unfortunately, this small mistake hurt his credibility.
Proofreading is essential. A polished application shows attention to detail and respect for the application process. Here’s how to get it right:
Read your application out loud: This can help you catch awkward phrasing or grammar mistakes.
Ask for help: Have a teacher, counselor, or trusted friend review your materials.
Take a break before editing: A fresh set of eyes can help you see errors that you may have missed initially.
Using a Generic Personal Statement: Make It Personal
Imagine an admissions officer reading through hundreds of essays, only to come across another one about winning a big game or overcoming a minor setback. Essays that lack personal depth or originality don’t stand out.
The personal statement is a crucial component of your application, as it’s your chance to show your unique story and character. Colleges want to know more than just your grades; they want to see what drives you. Here are some tips for crafting a memorable essay:
Avoid clichés: Common topics, like winning a sports game, may not highlight your unique qualities.
Be authentic: Write about something meaningful to you, whether it’s a small moment or a major life event.
Show your growth: Admissions officers want to see how you’ve evolved. Share a story that highlights personal growth or a new perspective.
If you’re struggling to make your essay distinctive, take time to reflect on moments that have truly impacted you, even if they seem small at first.
Not Researching the School: Show Genuine Interest
Many applicants make the mistake of sending a generic application to every school without considering each institution’s unique values or programs. This is particularly problematic for schools that value "demonstrated interest." Admissions officers can tell if an applicant hasn’t researched their school, which can make them question your commitment.
To show genuine interest:
Research specific programs: Look into the school’s majors, extracurriculars, and professors.
Mention specifics in your application: In your personal statement or supplemental essays, discuss why you’re drawn to that particular school.
Connect with current students or alumni: This can provide insights into the school culture, which you can reference in your application.
Ignoring Instructions: Follow the Rules
Imagine sending in a 600-word essay when the limit was 500 words. Admissions officers appreciate applicants who can follow instructions; going over a word limit or submitting files in the wrong format can be frustrating for them. In some cases, not following directions may even disqualify your application.
To avoid this:
Read each requirement carefully: Take note of word limits, document formats, and any specific requests.
Double-check before submitting: Ensure that your submission aligns with each school’s guidelines.
Respect the format: If a school requests a PDF, don’t submit a Word document or a Google Doc link.
Skipping the Optional Essay: Make the Most of Every Opportunity
Some schools offer optional essays or supplemental questions. Many students skip these, assuming they don’t matter. But opting out of an extra essay can signal a lack of interest or effort. Schools provide these prompts to learn more about you, so take advantage of the opportunity.
When deciding whether to complete an optional essay, remember:
It’s a chance to stand out: The extra essay could highlight an aspect of your personality or experiences that didn’t fit elsewhere.
Show enthusiasm: Completing the essay demonstrates that you’re genuinely interested in the school and willing to put in extra effort.
Be strategic: Use this space to discuss anything unique about you or to address any gaps in your application.
Overloading Extracurriculars: Quality Over Quantity
Some students feel pressured to list every activity they’ve ever participated in, thinking it’ll make their application more impressive. However, admissions officers prefer depth over breadth. They’re more interested in a few meaningful activities than a long list of minor involvements.
Consider focusing on:
Commitment and leadership: Choose activities that show dedication and a willingness to take on responsibility.
Impact: Highlight contributions that made a difference, even if the activity isn’t prestigious.
Growth: Show how your involvement in an activity has shaped who you are or your future goals.
Ignoring Financial Aid Applications: Don’t Miss Out on Opportunities
Many students overlook or delay financial aid applications, especially if they believe they won’t qualify for aid. However, failing to complete these forms can limit your options for grants, scholarships, and need-based aid. If cost is a concern, the financial aid application process is just as crucial as the college application itself.
To maximize your chances of receiving aid:
Complete the FAFSA: Submit this form as early as possible, as some aid is given on a first-come, first-served basis.
Check each school’s requirements: Some institutions require additional forms, like the CSS Profile.
Review deadlines: Financial aid deadlines may differ from application deadlines, so mark both on your calendar.
College application mistakes aren’t just limited to the application itself. They can impact financial aid and scholarship opportunities, making it even more essential to avoid these errors.
Failing to Connect with a Counselor: Use Your Resources
College counselors are a valuable resource during the application process, but some students shy away from seeking guidance. Counselors can provide insights into specific schools, give feedback on essays, and offer strategies to improve your application. Failing to connect with them means missing out on valuable advice.
For a smoother process:
Schedule regular check-ins: Meet with your counselor throughout the year to discuss deadlines, materials, and any questions.
Seek feedback on essays: They can help you refine your personal statement and avoid common pitfalls.
Ask about scholarships: Counselors often know about additional opportunities for funding that aren’t widely advertised.
Final Thoughts: Avoiding These Mistakes for a Stronger Application
Avoiding common college application mistakes can make a huge difference in the outcome. By staying organized, paying attention to detail, and demonstrating genuine interest, you’ll set yourself apart from other applicants. Remember, every part of your application tells a story about who you are. So make it count by showcasing your strengths and taking the time to put your best foot forward.
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