Applying to college is a big moment in your life. Understandably, you likely have a few questions about how to go about it the right way. Below are some of the most common questions about the application process. FAQ
When should I start applying to college?You should start the application process the summer before your senior year. However, you can do a lot of prep work in your junior year, such as taking the SAT, researching and visiting campuses, getting recommendation letters, adding to your extracurriculars, etc. Use the BigFuture college application timeline as a reference to guide you through the process. Read more
How many colleges should I apply to?You should consider applying to several schools to keep your options open and improve your chances of getting into a program of your choice. You should apply to at least three reaches, two matches, and one safety school. Only apply to colleges you'd be happy to attend. Read more
What are reach, match, and safety schools?BigFuture has developed a system to help you rank schools and weigh out your options, based on your SAT scores or GPA. We’ll help you find reach, match, and safety colleges so you can build a balanced college list. On BigFuture, if your SAT Score (or GPA, which we convert to an SAT Score) falls within the 25–75 percentiles for that specific school, we consider it a match. If your score is under the 25th percentile, we consider it a reach and if it’s above the 75th percentile, we consider it a safety. Read more
Should I apply early for an early decision?There are pros and cons to applying by November or December to qualify for an early decision. The best option is to research early decision and early action to learn if that is the best choice for you. Early decision is binding and will require you to withdraw your other college applications if you are accepted. If you are not sure, it is best to select early action or regular decision, either of which are not binding. Early decision is best for students who know exactly where they want to go. You also won't know your financial aid package until you're accepted. If you're still considering your options, you may not want to lock into a school just yet. Read more
Should I use an online or a paper application?Check with the college to see which is preferred. Most colleges prefer online applications because they are easier to review and process—some even offer a discount in the application fee if you apply online. Applying online can also be more convenient for you—it’s easier to enter information and correct mistakes. Whichever method you choose, be sure to tell your school counselor where you have applied so your school transcript can be sent to the right colleges. Read more
Should I send additional material?You should follow the college's instructions to provide them with everything they need to know about you. Colleges are clear and specific about the materials they need to consider you for admission. If you wish to submit additional material, speak with your counselor about doing so or ask the admissions officer at that school. Read more
What are the Coalition, Common, and Universal College Applications?These are examples of college application platforms that provide standardized applications, which allow you to apply to multiple schools with a single application. Instead of filling out multiple applications, you can simply fill out one and submit it to each college. Compare your college list to the schools that accept each application to decide which one(s) might be right for you.
Remember that you'll still need to pay each school's application fees and some schools may require additional materials. Speak with your school counselor if you need college application fee waivers to cover this expense. Read more
Should I apply to colleges if my admission-test scores or grades are below their published ranges?You should absolutely consider applying to a school you're interested in, even if you're worried about your test scores and grades. Colleges look at many factors when deciding which students to accept. They consider your application essay, classes you took in high school, recommendations, extracurriculars, and more. With current test optional options policies, we recommend you submit your scores if they strengthen your application. If you are unsure whether your scores strengthen your application, talk to your counselor, or ask the college’s admissions officer. Read more
Should I even bother applying to colleges I don’t think I can afford?Absolutely. Remember that after financial aid packages are determined, most students will pay less than the "sticker price" listed on the college website. You don’t know if you can afford a college until after you apply, are accepted, and find out how much aid that college will offer you (if you’re accepted). Fill out the FAFSA® as early as possible after October 1 to qualify for the most aid. Even if the aid package the college offers is not enough, you have options . Many colleges are willing to work with students they have chosen for admission to ensure that those students can afford to attend. Read more
How long does it take to fill out a college application?You may need a month or more to gather the materials needed, like letters of recommendation and transcripts. Once you have all your materials gathered, the basic information on an application can usually be completed in less than an hour. Writing the essay and personal statement can take a few days up to a few weeks, depending on the content and number of revisions. Read more
How do I apply for college online?Whether you go with Common App, Coalition, or directly through a college, the online application platform will take you through the process step-by-step, where you will enter your information into the online form. You may also need to upload documents like your transcripts, and confirm that letters of recommendation have been submitted by your recommender. Some platforms have a link where your teachers can fill out their recommendations instead of giving them to you. Check with your counselor if you are unsure. Read more
When are applications due for college?While schools will vary, most schools require you to apply sometime between January and February. If you plan to apply early decision, the application is typically due in early November. Application deadlines are listed on each College Profile in BigFuture, or you can check directly with the school. Read more
Where should I apply to college?You should consider applying to at least six colleges, with a mix of reach, match, and safety schools. Having a balanced list of schools to apply to increases the chances you are accepted by one or more colleges where you'll be happy. You also shouldn't rely solely on a school's ranking or the advice of others. Take many factors into account and remember that the best school is the one where you feel at home and can thrive. Look at schools that have programs that interest you. Visit the campus and talk to students who go there. Only apply to schools where you can see yourself being happy. Read more
What happens if I make a mistake on a college application?Even if you're meticulous when completing your college application, there's a chance that you'll make a mistake. You may leave out something, fail to follow instructions, or do something incorrectly. If you realize you've made a mistake, don't panic. College admissions officers are not going to nit-pick over a minor error, but several errors may show you in a bad light. If you have significant errors or omissions, you should reach out to the admissions office of the college you applied to. Read more When should I apply for fall 2023?Most applications will open August 1 for students applying for fall 2023 enrollment. College deadlines most often fall between November and February. Early admission means submitting your application sooner, usually by November. Applying regular decision gives you more time to work on application essays and take exams.
Are 2023 university applications open?Undergraduate and postgraduate applications for 2023 are now open and will close on 30 November 2022. The Durban University of Technology is a technical university that offers many different departments as well as short courses. Applications to study at the University are now open for 2023.
When should I apply for spring intake 2023?The application deadline for spring intake 2023 is from July to December 2022.
What is the earliest I can apply to colleges?Many schools open their applications in August or September. The application window is typically open until the spring or even up to the first week of classes. Applicants are usually informed of a decision within four to six weeks of submission. As for honors programs, the process is different at each school.
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