Apply to College

The college application process can seem daunting, especially for students and families going through it for the first time. You may have questions about how to get started or what materials to include in applications. The U.S. News Apply to College guide offers answers to assist you, from tips if you are just beginning to brainstorm essay topics to advice on what to do if you've been placed on a waitlist.

Choose your topic area of interest in the guide below – including the college essay, extracurricular activities, standardized tests, recommendation letters, early action and early decision admissions, waitlists and transferring – and you'll see a list of articles filled with advice on how to effectively navigate that part of the application process.

What Should I Know About the College Application Process?

To apply to college, keep in mind that you need to start early in high school and do your research to find the right fit. The following articles offer advice on how to get into college.

What Should I Know About Applying to Different Types of Colleges?

From smaller liberal arts colleges to bigger public universities, you have a lot of school types to consider. Here's what to keep in mind about applying to different schools.

What Tips Should I Know About My College Essay?

Use the college essay to give admissions officers insight into who you are. The tips in these articles will help you tackle the application essay with confidence.

What Should I Know About Extracurricular Activities?

Colleges want to know how you spend time outside of the classroom, such as in clubs or jobs. Read on to learn about the role of extracurricular activities in college applications.

How Important Are Standardized Test Scores?

Schools have varying policies when it comes to admissions tests like the SAT and ACT. Here's what you need to know about college entrance exams.

What Do I Need to Know About Recommendation Letters?

Applications typically require recommendation letters written by people who know you well. Read the following articles to find out who, when and how to ask for letters.

Should I Apply to College Early?

Some colleges offer early decision or early action admissions, in which you find out if you got in before other applicants. These articles weigh the pros and cons of applying early.

How Should I Handle the Application if I'm an International Student?

Applying to U.S. universities as an international student can be challenging. The articles below can help you understand the admissions process if you're applying from abroad.

What Should I Know About Waitlists?

A college may put you on a waitlist and not offer you a spot until after the typical May 1 decision deadline. Here's what you need to know if you're wait-listed.

What Do I Need to Know When Transferring Schools?

Transferring may make sense if your college isn't a good fit or you want to finish a degree at a four-year school after community college. Read tips below on transferring schools.

Best Colleges Rankings

For students who need help narrowing down the list of colleges and universities to apply to, the U.S. News Best Colleges rankings can serve as a good starting point.