If you haven’t already, read Some suggestions for high school college applicants. Lately, a handful of type-A underclassmen peers have asked me how I went about applying for college. So here’s a concise but comprehensive outline.
Preparation
1. Make a spreadsheet
- List schools you’re applying to
- Organize by priority
- List what they need: scores, transcripts, letters, financial aid forms, etc.
- Color code, use markings to track progress
- Use supplemental notes and tools for small-scale reminders
Suggested time allocation: 1-2 days
2. List essay prompts
- Make a list of all the prompts you plan to write on, get familiar
- Organize by school
- Jot ideas you want to convey
- Outline one at a time; ideas are likely to overlap
- Seriously, outline
Suggested time allocation: 1-2 days
3. Make a resume
- Be organized and aesthetic
- Be thorough
- Include the following:
- Awards
- Leadership
- Academics
- Tests
- Extracurricular activities
- Volunteerism
- Work experience
- Interests and hobbies
Suggested time allocation: 1-2 days
4. Make a timeline
- Distinguish early application deadlines
- Pace yourself
- Do as much as you can before senior year starts
Suggested time allocation: 1-2 days
Execution
5. Fill out the Common Application
- Be thorough
- Be accurate
- Note: some schools use their own application
Suggested time allocation: 1-2 days
6. Write essays and fill out supplements
- Before writing, outline
- Revisit and revise continuously
- Seek counsel from teachers and mentors
- Assemble other supplemental materials like music and art
Suggested time allocation: 3-4 weeks
7. Perfect (the verb)
- Revise, revise, revise
- Establish a common thread, idea, or sentiment throughout your entire application
- Making something pretty can make a difference, but not all the difference
- Go above and beyond within the application itself
Suggested time allocation: 1-2 weeks
8. Collect and send
- Transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Score reports
- Financial aid forms
Suggested time allocation: 2-4 weeks
9. Interviews
- Be sincere
- Bring energy
- Dress well
- Build on your application
10. Wait for your decision
Probably the hardest part!
Ishmam Ahmed 
I suggest adding this to the spreadsheet section something along the lines of color coding/otherwise indicating what has been finished, what is in process, and what still needs to be done, so you can see your progress at a glance. But great job 🙂
Good call. And thanks!