STUDENTS AND FAMILIES
Applying to College
The college application process can be confusing and stressful. Let us help.
Whether you’re headed to community college, a public school, or a private school, you’re going to have to complete a college application. Texas OnCourse is here to guide you through this sometimes confusing process.
Explore the differences among application systems and see which application your dream school accepts.
Decide where to apply.
The resources listed on this page are for students who have researched where to go and are ready to start applying. Not sure where you want to apply? Don’t worry. Make your way over to our College Planning page.
Find out what applications are necessary.
It used to be that every college had its own application. This made life very hard for students. These days, many colleges accept the same few applications: ApplyTexas, Common App, Coalition App, and the Universal College App. Explore the resources below to find out what’s right for you.
Make yourself look good.
College applications take into consideration all sorts of information: your grades, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and more. Before you submit any applications, be sure you’ve made yourself look as good as possible.
Submit, but don’t stop there.
Getting your applications in is a big deal! But once you celebrate hitting that Submit button, keep your eyes on the prize. Visit our financial planning page to make sure you get a head start on scholarships and financial aid.
Featured Tools for Applying to College
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.
APPLYING TO COLLEGE
The Coalition Application
The Coalition Application makes applying to college more accessible for low-income and first-generation students.
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
Jan
15
GRADE 12
Texas priority deadline for TASFA and FAFSA
Aug
01
GRADE 12
ApplyTexas and Common App open
DEC-JAN
GRADE 12
Get your college applications in!
JUN
30
GRADE 12
FAFSA closes
All Resources for Applying to College
Late High School
Webinar: College Essays, Writing Samples, and Resumes
APPLYING TO COLLEGE
In this webinar, we explore college application essays, writing samples, and resumes, and connect with representatives from the Common Application and ApplyTexas.
ApplyTexas
APPLYING TO COLLEGE
Apply to all Texas two- and four-year public schools, and some private schools, with this streamlined application.
The Common Application
APPLYING TO COLLEGE
The Common Application is a central application to public and private universities across the country. Understand and apply.
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.
Tomorrow Ready Texas
FAMILY RESOURCES
Tomorrow Ready Texas is a free college and career planning resource for parents and guardians of students in 8th grade through 12th grade.
