How to Follow Up After Submitting Your College Applications

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Submitting your college applications is a significant milestone in your academic journey, but the process doesn't end there. After hitting that "submit" button, many students are left wondering what comes next. While it's easy to think that you just have to wait for the results, the truth is that following up after submission can help ensure your application is complete, keep you informed of any issues, and potentially give you an edge in a competitive admissions process.

This guide outlines the actionable steps you should take after submitting your college applications to stay on top of your applications, handle any complications, and put your best foot forward in the process.

Confirm Your Submission

Once you've submitted your college applications, the first and most important step is to confirm that your application has been successfully received by the school. This ensures that all your hard work hasn't gone unnoticed and prevents potential issues from arising.

Steps to Confirm Submission:

  • Check Your Email: Most colleges will send a confirmation email when your application is submitted successfully. Review the email to ensure everything looks good. If you don't receive an email right away, check your spam or junk folder.
  • Log into the Application Portal: Many colleges offer an online portal where you can track the status of your application. Log into the portal to verify that your application status is marked as "submitted" or "received."
  • Verify Supporting Documents: Double-check that all your application materials---such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores---are listed as received. Some portals may allow you to track individual documents.
  • Check for Errors: If there are any errors with your submitted application, such as missing documents or incorrect personal details, this is the time to address them.

Why This Is Important:

Confirming your submission ensures that you have successfully completed the first step and that there are no missing components. If you find an issue early, you'll have time to rectify it without missing important deadlines.

Monitor Your Email for Updates

Once your application has been submitted, colleges will likely communicate any additional information, updates, or requests via email. It's crucial to regularly check your email to stay informed.

Steps to Stay on Top of Emails:

  • Enable Email Notifications: Make sure you've signed up for any email notifications related to your college application status. Some universities will send updates about interviews, missing documents, or additional steps you need to take.
  • Check Your Spam Folder: Sometimes, important emails from colleges can end up in your spam folder, so regularly check to avoid missing anything critical.
  • Create a Dedicated Folder: Set up a folder specifically for college-related communications so you can easily track and review all correspondence in one place.

Why This Is Important:

Colleges may request additional documents or have questions about your application, so staying on top of your email ensures you don't miss crucial updates that could affect your application's status.

Follow Up on Missing Materials

Even after you submit your application, there may be missing materials that need to be submitted, such as test scores, transcripts, or letters of recommendation. While colleges may give you ample time to submit these materials, it's still essential to proactively follow up to ensure everything is in order.

Steps for Following Up on Missing Materials:

  • Check Your Application Portal: Many schools offer an online portal where you can check the status of each component of your application. If a particular item is marked as missing, this gives you the opportunity to take action.
  • Contact Your School Counselor: If your high school hasn't yet sent transcripts or other documents, reach out to your counselor to ensure that everything is on track.
  • Reach Out to Recommenders: If a letter of recommendation hasn't been submitted yet, follow up with your recommenders to ensure they've submitted it on time.
  • Verify Test Scores: If your standardized test scores (e.g., SAT, ACT, TOEFL) were sent by a testing agency, verify that the scores have been received. You may need to contact the testing agency if there are any discrepancies.

Why This Is Important:

Keeping track of missing materials will help ensure that your application is complete. Missing documents can delay the review process or lead to a rejected application.

Don't Over-Communicate or Be Pushy

While it's essential to follow up, you must also balance persistence with professionalism. Colleges receive a large volume of applications, and bombarding admissions officers with repeated emails can be counterproductive.

Tips to Avoid Over-Communication:

  • Wait a Few Weeks: If you're waiting on confirmation or updates after submission, give the school at least a week or two before reaching out.
  • Be Patient with Admissions Offices: Admissions officers are reviewing hundreds or thousands of applications. If there are delays in responses or updates, be patient and understanding.
  • Limit Follow-Ups: Only follow up if you genuinely believe there's an issue with your application (such as missing materials) or if the school has provided a specific date for when decisions will be made. If you've already reached out and gotten an answer, avoid sending multiple follow-up emails.
  • Be Professional and Polite: Always maintain a respectful and professional tone in your emails. Remember that admissions officers are handling numerous applicants, and courteous communication goes a long way.

Why This Is Important:

Being overly persistent can reflect poorly on you. Colleges are looking for students who are not only diligent but also respectful and mature. Politeness and professionalism will help you leave a positive impression.

Consider Sending a "Thank You" or "Continued Interest" Letter

Once your application is submitted, one way to reinforce your interest in the school is by sending a short, thoughtful "thank you" or "continued interest" letter to the admissions office. This can be especially helpful if the school is one you're particularly interested in or if you've made significant updates to your application (e.g., new achievements or awards).

When to Send a "Continued Interest" Letter:

  • After an Interview: If you had an interview with the college, sending a thank-you letter after the interview is a courteous gesture.
  • If You've Had New Achievements: If you've had any new accomplishments or academic milestones after submitting your application (such as winning an award or improving your grades), let the college know.
  • If You're Waitlisted: If you're placed on a waitlist, sending a letter expressing continued interest can show your commitment to attending the school if admitted.

Why This Is Important:

A well-crafted letter shows that you are proactive and genuinely interested in attending the school. It's a chance to highlight any new developments in your life and show that you're enthusiastic about the school.

Keep Track of College Deadlines and Events

Even after you've submitted your application, there are still important deadlines and events to track. Many colleges host events like interviews, campus tours, or special sessions for admitted students. You should keep a detailed schedule of any upcoming deadlines, such as:

  • Financial Aid Deadlines: If you're applying for financial aid, make sure you're aware of deadlines for submitting FAFSA, CSS Profile, or other financial documents.
  • Decision Dates: Know when to expect admissions decisions and mark those dates on your calendar.
  • Interviews: Some colleges may offer interviews after your application is submitted. Be sure to follow up with the admissions office if you haven't heard about scheduling an interview.
  • Admitted Student Events: If you've been admitted, many schools host events for admitted students. These events can be important for getting to know the campus better and making your final decision.

Why This Is Important:

Staying organized and aware of key dates will help you avoid missing deadlines and allow you to take full advantage of opportunities offered by the school.

Conclusion

Following up after submitting your college applications is an essential part of the admissions process. By confirming your submission, monitoring communications, and addressing any missing materials or issues promptly, you increase your chances of a successful application. At the same time, remember to balance persistence with professionalism, and use follow-up communication as an opportunity to reinforce your interest in the school.

The process might seem overwhelming at times, but taking a proactive approach will show colleges that you are dedicated, organized, and committed to your academic future. Stay diligent, follow up thoughtfully, and be patient---the final decision will come soon enough.

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