COUNSELORS AND ADVISERS
Applying to College
Applying to college can be confusing and stressful. Let us help.
Whether a student’s headed to community college, a public school, or a private school, they’re going to have to apply. Navigate this at-times confusing process, explore the differences between different application systems, and access resources to help students before and after submitting.
Understand the different application systems.
There are several types of applications – ApplyTexas, individual school applications, the Common App, and more. Make sure you understand the difference between them with helpful trainings in the Texas OnCourse Academy.
Ensure that students can afford to apply.
Fee waivers are key to helping low-income students get their foot in the door at their dream school. Understand how to access and use waivers in different application systems.
Streamline application season.
There’s so much to keep track of – admission requirements, types of decisions, application follow-up, your role as a counselor or adviser. The Texas OnCourse Academy keeps you from having to Google to keep it straight!
Don’t stop now.
Applying to college is only half the battle. Explore more resources related to financial aid and scholarships, both in the Texas OnCourse Academy and on our Finances page.
Featured Tools for Applying to College
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Texas OnCourse Academy
Texas OnCourse Academy provides comprehensive learning on college and career advising to educators.
APPLYING TO COLLEGE
The Common Application
The Common Application is a central application to public and private universities across the country. Understand and apply.
APPLYING TO COLLEGE
ApplyTexas
Apply to all Texas two- and four-year public schools, and some private schools, with this streamlined application.
COLLEGE PLANNING
BigFuture
Learn what colleges offer your major, where you can get in, how much schools cost, and more with this College Board resource.
Important Dates and Deadlines
MAY
1
GRADE 12
National Decision Day: Pick your college!
All Resources for Applying to College
Middle School
Texas OnCourse Academy
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Texas OnCourse Academy provides comprehensive learning on college and career advising to educators.
Early High School
Texas OnCourse Academy
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Texas OnCourse Academy provides comprehensive learning on college and career advising to educators.
Late High School
Texas OnCourse Academy
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Texas OnCourse Academy provides comprehensive learning on college and career advising to educators.
FAFSA
FINANCES
Federal funding is the largest source of financial aid. Apply for grants, loans, and other types of aid with this free application.
The Coalition Application
APPLYING TO COLLEGE
The Coalition Application makes applying to college more accessible for low-income and first-generation students.
Common App Ready
APPLYING TO COLLEGE
The Common Application provides this resource full of college essay writing tips, guidance on college recommendations, understanding application fees, fee waivers, and more.
