College Acceptance Checklist: What to Do After You’re In!
BIG Ideas:
- Comparing programs and the net cost of schools can help make your college decision easier.
- Every school is different when it comes to awarding financial aid, so make sure you read your financial aid award letter carefully.
- Keep track of important dates and deadlines, such as the acceptance deadline and when deposits are due.
Essay completed: Check
Application sent: Check.
Acceptances received. YES!
Next steps? Read on.
All your hard work and discipline have paid off! You got into college! Whether it’s your dream school or a school that wasn’t your top choice, it’s a tremendous milestone and a major step toward a bright future.
Take a minute to reflect on this amazing accomplishment, tell your friends and family, and even break out into a happy dance.
Once you bask in the glory of it all, it’s time to get a few things done. Not sure what those things are? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with this handy dandy checklist. Let’s get to it:
- Review your acceptance letters and other docs. You may have been so focused on the million-dollar question: “Did I get in? that you may have skipped over some of the details in your acceptance letter. Now is the time to go back and carefully read it along with other documents you received to learn what steps to take next. For example, you’ll want to pay close attention and make notes about housing deadlines, details on registering for orientation, and when deposits and other paperwork are due. One thing you’ll definitely need to read is your financial aid award letter, which outlines the financial aid the school will be offering you. That amount will vary from school to school.
- Compare schools you’ve been accepted to. Your financial aid award letter will show the net cost of school (which is the cost of education (COA) minus the financial aid the school will award you).This information will help you compare the costs of each school to determine the one that best meets your budget. If there’s a particular school that stands out for a program, speak to the financial aid office to learn more about the aid available.
- Assess your finances. If you haven’t already done so, start reviewing your finances to figure out how to afford college. Will you be paying on your own or will your parents help? Do you need student loans? If your parents plan to help, make sure you know how much they will contribute by having “the [money] talk.” Also, research scholarships and grants to help you get “free money” that can be used to help you with your “unmet need.” Check out the Murray J. Watson, Jr. scholarship from Brazos.
- Confirm your enrollment. Once you decide on a school, make it official by accepting your offer of admission. Most schools give you until May 1. They also will require you to submit an enrollment deposit to secure your spot. Don’t forget that important step.
- Apply for housing. On-campus housing can fill up fast. So, if you see dorm life in your future, sign up as soon as possible. Pay close attention to the housing options, which may include different times of dorms and living situations, e.g., co-ed dorms. They may even offer roommate pairing programs if you plan to room with a friend from home.
- Sign up for orientation. To make it easier for you to transition to college life, most schools offer orientation before school starts. It’s an ideal way to get a feel for the campus, meet new friends, and kickstart your academic planning. Sign up as soon as you can to secure a spot.
- Submit final documents. Though you’ve been accepted to college, it doesn’t mean you can sit back and coast for the rest of your senior year. Most colleges require that you submit a final transcript and other official documents after graduation. So, don’t fall victim to “senioritis” and let your grades slip.
- Register for classes. Schools will often open class registration before the semester begins, so take some time to review your options. Though first-year students usually have required general education courses, you may be able to explore electives or start classes in your major.
Embrace The Journey
You’re about to embark on the most exciting time in your life. Complete this checklist to ensure you get off to a great start.
Brazos is Here to Help Make College Possible
For more than 40 years, Brazos Higher Education has been helping make education more affordable for students. As a Texas non-profit, we can offer you great rates on refinance and student loans. Contact us today!
