Keep Climbing: Wednesday Motivation
- Wendy Williams
- Oct 8
- 2 min read
The October 15th Early Action deadline is just around the corner! This is an exciting milestone, but also a time to double-check every detail before you hit “Submit.” Use this checklist to stay on track and confident:
✅ 1. Complete Your Application
Review every section of your Common App and college-specific application.
Confirm your college list and intended major selections.
Always read through each college’s official Admissions or “College Information” page to confirm exact requirements and deadlines.
💳 2. Pay or Waive Your Application Fee
Submit your application fee or request a fee waiver (available directly in the Common App).
📝 3. Finalize Your Essays & Supplements
Proofread your main essay and school-specific supplements carefully.
Double-check school names, tone, and word count limits before uploading.
📄 4. Counselor Forms & Transcripts
Make sure your counselor has submitted your transcript and school report.
Verify that your transcript includes all courses through junior year and current senior schedule.
STARS: Be sure to create your STARS account if it’s required by any of your schools—some universities use it to track your application status and upload materials.
🎯 5. Test Scores (If Applicable)
If your college requires or allows test scores, send them directly from the testing agency.
Many EA schools require official scores to arrive within one week of October 15.
If you have taken AP or IB exams, be sure to list them on the Common Application (Recommendation to list AP scores: 3 or higher, and IB scores: 5, 6, or 7)
💬 6. Teacher Recommendations
Confirm that your teacher recommendation letters are uploaded and submitted.
Send a quick thank-you note—it goes a long way!
📎 7. Review Optional Materials
Upload your resume, portfolio, or additional essays if the college allows them.
Be sure to follow any formatting or file guidelines.
🔍 8. Print Preview Before Submitting
Use the Common App print preview to review your entire application.
Look for formatting issues, typos, or missing details.
🕒 9. Submit Early—Not at Midnight!
Avoid technical glitches by submitting a day or two early.
Keep digital copies of your confirmation emails for each submission.
💻 10. Check Your Portals
After you apply, colleges will email you access to a student portal.
Log in and make sure all required documents (transcripts, test scores, recommendations) are marked as received.
Please know that this is a general checklist designed to help you submit key items by the deadline. For your specific colleges, be sure to follow the exact instructions and requirements listed on each application. ✅
✨ Final Tip:Celebrate your progress! You’ve worked hard to reach this stage, and every submission brings you one step closer to your next chapter. Share online and tag @WilliamsEducational.
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