Read pages 12-13 and 31-34 of the Guide. Use the “Track Your College Applications” activity on page 38 to track your progress. Get a head start on your college applications. Preparing a strong application takes time, hard work, and attention to detail. Generally, there are five options for college admissions. The option you select will impact when your application is due, when you find out if you are selected, and your ability to choose a college based on how much financial aid it offers. Learn more on page 31 of the Guide. Understand your college admissions options •Early Decision is binding, which means you promise to attend this college if admitted. If you apply Early Decision, you should make sure that this college is the right financial “fit.” Early Decision Deadlines: Typically early to mid-November •Early Action allows you to apply earlier to — and hear back sooner from — the colleges you are most interested in. Early Action is non-binding, meaning it does not commit you to attend the school, but it does tell the school that you are interested. Early Action Deadlines: Typically early to mid-November •Restrictive Early Action is also non-binding; typically, if you apply Restrictive Early Action to a private university, you cannot apply to other private schools early, but can apply to public universities early. However, different schools have different rules for Restrictive Early Action, so check your school’s website carefully. •Rolling Admissions applications are evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis until the school fills its first-year class. This option also allows you to apply to as many schools as you like and to compare financial aid packages. Rolling Admission Deadlines: Varies •Regular Decision will allow you to apply to as many schools as you like and to compare aid packages. Regular Decision Deadlines: Typically November to February Become familiar with the application process for each of your preferred schools •Before applying to college, learn more about The Common Application and The Common Black College Application by visiting www.commonapp.org and www.commonblackcollegeapp.com. These sites enable you to apply to multiple colleges using the same application form, resume, and essay. The 2026-2027 “Common App” will be available in August. •If you plan to apply to Community College of Philadel- phia, explore the online application at www.ccp.edu. •If you plan to apply to a Pennsylvania state university, visit www.passhe.edu to review applications for all state universities. •If you plan to apply to a Pennsylvania state-related university, visit the school’s website for applications: •Penn State University: https://admissions.psu.edu/ apply, also available via The Common Application. •Temple University: https://admissions.temple.edu/ apply, also available via The Common Application. •University of Pittsburgh: https://oafa.pitt.edu/apply, also available via The Common Application. Create your resumé A resumé is a one-page document that outlines your education, skills, and achievements. You can use this as a component of your college application. See pages 12-13 in the Guide for instructions on preparing, writing, and formatting your resumé. Step 6: Begin the Application Process
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