A college application, transcript, test scores (if applicable) as well as guidance counselor/teacher recommendations should be submitted at least a week if not more before the application deadline. Problems often occur at the last minute. Transmission problems happen. Sometimes someone forgets to write a recommendation. A student may become ill the week the application is due. Paying attention to deadlines is a must. A student has had months to fill out an application, and there is only one deadline. This also applies to teacher and counselor recommendations, which need follow up by the student to ensure they are in by the date needed.

If you are lucky, the guidance counselor at your school has a small number of students to oversee during the application process.

The reality in most schools is that guidance counselors have large groupings of students to watch over during the college application process. This result is limited time spent with students and families. Packets are often given out at a parent's night or given to students at a special class meeting. Families are directed to websites for information. Students vie for initial college appointments and follow up appointments with counselors. It is often challenging to meet the demand for help particularly at big high schools.

It is up to you to advocate for yourself whether it is making appointments with a guidance counselor to discuss your applications or asking for recommendations from teachers/activity leaders. It is also up to you to monitor the application system your school is using. You are in control of the Common App.

If you meet the school's selection criteria, you will have a chance at admission. If not, there are many other excellent colleges/universities that will welcome your application.

How you portray yourself in your Common App essay and supplemental essays is very important. Some counselors will say that a couple of typos or a few grammatically incorrect sentences make the application "real." However, when the competition is great, details matter. At most informational interviews, you will be told that your grades/courses are the most important factors. While this holds true, the story you tell on your application will help an admissions counselor understand who you are and why you are a match for their school. Let the story be a great one.

With 75,000 - 100,000+ applications for limited spots at elite universities, the competition is great. There is no guarantee for admission to the most selective institutions in America. Most admissions counselors are looking at applications and supporting documents with a holistic approach, and the stronger the application, the stronger the chance you will be accepted.

If you apply to a private school/university for early decision and are accepted, the school assumes you will accept its invitation and withdraw all applications from other schools. There is an exception if the financial aid package being offered is not sufficient for attendance. Note that if schools find out that students have not withdrawn their applications from other schools, they can (and have) withdrawn offers. Additionally, students must keep their grades up or risk a rescinded invitation.

Applying Early Action allows strong students the opportunity to be accepted early. This helps in planning for the upcoming year. Students are usually not expected to notify schools until the regular deadline. Some schools have Restrictive Early Action (see individual schools for details).