The Do's and Don'ts of a University Application

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The college application process is a critical step in a student's educational journey. To increase your chances of getting admitted to your dream school, it's important to put together a strong application. This article provides valuable tips and resources to help you successfully complete the college application process. Additionally, we will showcase some successful examples of college application essays and strategies.

Here are some tips for university applications:

1. Research Universities

Research postsecondary institutions that match your academic and personal preferences, considering factors such as location, size, professional extracurricular activities, and reputation. Create your preferred candidate list to simplify your application process. You could write down a list of post-secondary institutions on paper or create a spreadsheet of information about each university or college. For example, the information below shows an example of a list of post-secondary institutions in B.C.

1. University of British Columbia

   1. Type: Public

   2. Size: Over 400 hectares and about 72585 students

   3. Student Activities: AMA student clubs

   4. Best Programs: Forestry, Geography, Transportation Science and Technology

2. University of Victoria

   1. Type: Public

   2. Size: Over 163 hectares and about 22060 students

   3. Student Activities: Drop-in recreation

   4. Best Programs: Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Physical Sciences, Hospitality & Leisure Management

3. University Canada West

   1. Type: Private

   2. Size: Two downtown campuses and about 11000 students

   3. Student Activities: Peer to Peer

   4. Best Program: MBA

2. Meet Application Deadlines

Pay attention to the application deadlines and set a schedule to ensure you submit your application on time. Some colleges offer early decision or early action options, which can be advantageous.

3. Craft a Stellar Personal Statement

Your personal statement or essay is an important part of your application. It allows you to stay true to yourself and showcases your personal experiences and aspirations. Seek feedback from a faculty advisor or counsellor to improve your paper.

4. Highlight Extracurricular Activities

Universities value well-rounded applicants, so emphasize your involvement in club sports, volunteer work, and leadership positions. Show how these experiences shaped your character and skills. Choose relevant activities, quantify your impact, provide details, connect to your skills and qualities, tailor to your audience, tell a story, and include unique experiences.

5. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Choose referees who know you well and can understand your abilities and character. Provide them with a resume or list of accomplishments to help them write compelling letters. 

When writing a request to referees for reference letters, the first step is choosing the right references. For example, you could select people who know you and your relevant work well and who will speak highly of you. The second step is asking them nicely and strategically. For example, the letter could be drafted as below to show your sincere request.

Hi [name],

I hope all is well! How have things been with you and [company, organization, or personal interest]?

I’m reaching out because I’ve been interviewing for a [position name] role at [company], and I’d love to list your name as a reference if you’re willing. I thought of you because we’ve [ways in which you’ve worked together], and you could speak to my [key skills and abilities needed in the new position].

6. Demonstrate Academic Excellence

Maintain a good GPA and score well on standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT (if needed). If you are facing academic challenges, use your personal statement to explain and demonstrate growth.

7. Financial Aid and Scholarships

Explore the financial aid options and scholarships offered by each institution. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the appropriate financial aid form to receive grants and loans.

8. Prepare for Interviews

Some universities use an interview as part of their application process to be ready to discuss your interests, goals, and experiences. Practice with a friend or family member to build confidence. Here is a good resource with some interview tips.

9. Stay Organized

Create a spreadsheet to track application requirements, deadlines, and submission status for each university. Proofread all documents and make sure they are error-free.

10. Follow Up

After submitting your application, please keep an eye on your inbox (especially Spam) as well as any newsletters to make sure you do not miss important dates or events. Respond promptly to any other requests or inquiries.

The college application process is an important step in your academic journey, and by researching colleges to meet deadlines, producing strong application materials, and taking advantage of available resources, you can increase your chances of being accepted to your desired institution. Good luck!