Finish "Shopping", Start Applying
Helpful guidelines to make it easier.
By the fall of your senior year, you should stop shopping and start applying. Many of the more selective colleges and universities have mid- to late-December deadlines for the next fall. Others may have deadlines late in the spring, or may even continue taking applications through the summer.
No matter what the deadline, if you follow these guidelines, your application process will go more smoothly and you'll have fewer last-minute surprises.
Application Guidelines:
- Apply early so you'll have time to review and compare scholarship and financial aid offers, as well as see if any schools require you to take summer preparatory courses.
- Read the application instructions carefully (see more information) and be sure you provide all of the required information and materials (such as copies of high school transcripts or letters of reference).
- Respond to all requests for additional information immediately and keep records of your responses.
- Keep a file with a copy of your application and other materials, copies of letters from the colleges or universities, and copies of your letters to the schools.
Where can I get an application for college?
Texas public universities and health-related institutions:
If you want to apply to a Texas public university, you need to complete the Texas Common Application. Universities prefer that you apply online at www.applytexas.org. However, you can get a paper copy from your high school counselor, from the university, or download a copy from our site. You may also apply to The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio by using the Texas Common Application.
Texas public community or technical colleges:
Most public community and technical colleges have their applications available online. Links to the admissions offices for these schools are available via our links to Texas Higher Education Institutions. If you need a paper application, call the college directly. If the college is local, your high school counselor may have copies of the application. You may use the Texas Common Application to apply to Blinn College or Tyler Junior College.
Texas independent (private) colleges and universities:
Links to the admissions offices for these schools are available via our links to Texas Higher Education Institutions. Many private schools offer applications on the Texas Mentor Web site (your guide to Texas private colleges). You may use the Texas Common Application to apply to Baylor University, Dallas Baptist University and Schreiner University.
Colleges and universities in other states or countries:
For information on a college or university in a state other than Texas, or in another country, contact the admissions office of the school directly. Most colleges provide information on the Internet. Locate the school online by typing the name into the search engine of your choice. You may also find information on CollegeView.
Graduate Schools
If you are interested in applying for graduate school only, contact the college's Dean of Graduate Studies or visit online.You should also be able to link to the graduate school from the college's main Web page. Links to the admissions offices for these schools are available via our links to Texas Higher Education Institutions.
What if I need more information?
CollegeForTexans.com has information about all Texas public colleges and universities. Contact information for each school, as well as deadline information, is available.
