As early university decisions continue to trickle in and you await your Regular Decisions in March and April, here are some key considerations for college-bound Grade 12 and Year 13 students.
Remember that Grades and Exam Results Matter. With nearly all applications submitted and graduation only a few months away, it can be tempting to relax and look forward to the future. However, your academic performance this semester is critical. Universities expect you to maintain the same academic standards you presented in your applications. If you drop significantly, your chosen university could rescind your offer. Although infrequent, this does happen. You’ve worked hard to get through high school, so set aside time to study, get enough rest, and finish strong!
Check Your Admissions Portals Frequently. It’s vital to confirm that your high school counselor sends the mid-year report to all your universities, especially those that are not on Common App. Your Regular Decision and Early Decision 2 portals are the primary way your universities communicate with you. Log in to them at least weekly to ensure each school has received all the information it needs to make an admissions decision.
Engage in School Life and Activities. Many universities ask for updates between now and their Regular Decision release dates. Be sure to continue the activities you love so you can tell your universities how you’ve stayed intellectually and personally engaged. If you were deferred in the early round, or if you are waitlisted in the regular round, you’ll likely need to write a “letter of continued interest.” The best letters show how you’ve made ongoing contributions to your schools, clubs, and communities. Planning a great summer internship, reading an interesting book, completing an online course, and volunteering for a good cause are other excellent ways to show that you would be a valuable member of your favorite university’s incoming class.
Review Early Acceptances. Now is the time to begin evaluating your options. If you were accepted under a binding Early Decision plan, you must withdraw your other applications. If you don’t, you risk losing your ED place. If you were accepted to more than one university under a non-binding Early Action plan and know which you prefer, use the portal or send a brief email to decline other offers. Doing so is the kindest and most respectful way to treat the universities and your peers; the college you turn down will be someone else’s dream school. Students with ED acceptances should also follow the instructions provided in the admissions portal and submit required documents such as enrollment forms, health records, housing information, and tuition deposits by the specified deadlines. For international students, communicate frequently with the admissions office to secure the paperwork needed for your visa.
Maintain Your Relationships. You and your friends may be heading in different directions after summer, so enjoy your time together and help each other manage exam stress. You should also let important teachers and mentors know your college plans, expressing your gratitude to them for their guidance. And don’t forget to show love and appreciation to your parents as you all get ready to begin a new chapter in life.
Plan Your Future. After you enjoy a much-needed break following exams and graduation, spend time reflecting on what you’ve learned about yourself and what you hope to achieve in the coming years. Update your resume so you are ready for college career fairs, read about topics that intrigue you, explore majors at your chosen university, and consider taking a career survey to confirm your goals or discover new possibilities.
Exciting times are ahead, so finish strong. If you have any questions or concerns about the coming months, please contact your Ivy Options counselor or info@ivyoptions.com.
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