Applying to College

The Common App is platform that has been gaining in popularity. Students have to fill out one standard application that can be sent to multiple universities. Some universities may require additional components, but the Common App does an excellent job of simplfying the process. Above is an overview of how their system works.

Please click here to see a list of of the 952 colleges and universities that accept this application: Common App College List. If you see any that you are interested in, please use this link to create an account: First Time College Student Application.

CFNC is also a common way to apply to North Carolina community colleges and universities. This differs from the Common App in that it will only list schools in North Carolina for you to apply to and it includes community colleges. Here is a list of those colleges and universities along with their admissions deadlines: CFNC NC College List. The above video provides a great overview of the services they offer and the application process.

It is also recommended that you send your transcripts at the end of each semester through CFNC. It is more in sync with PowerSchool and will allow your transcript to reach the college more quickly with a receipt of its delivery.

CFNC also participates in College Application Week (10/16/2023-10/20/2023). During this time, a number of North Carolina colleges and universities will waive their college application fee when applying through the CFNC portal.

Another method of application is directly through the unversity website that you are interested in. Most unversities will direct you toward the Common App or CFNC to help streamline their applications, however, some still allow students to apply directly through them. There is nothing wrong with this method of applying but it will take responsibility on the students part to log in faithfully and work on their application.

The student will have to make an account with the school that will allow them to access the applcation and they can call the school with any direct questions.

This type of application is legally binding - if you are accepted you must attend this university and withdraw other applications that were submitted. If you decide to opt out of this, a fine will have to be paid to the school. This option is ideal if you have been offered a full ride at your top school and you know without a doubt that you will attend there. The deadlines for this decision fall in the first weeks of November but vary based on each university.

If you are hestitant or have any doubts at all do NOT apply early decision.

Early Action allows you to submit your applications to your top university choices early but is not legally binding. This type of application is helpful when you want to know your acceptance status sooner rather than later. You can make your decision to commit when you receive the acceptance or you can wait until the spring to confirm.

This type of application is due the first couple of weeks of November as well. However, it does vary depending on the university.

This is the most common application submitted by students. This is not legally binding and allows for more time to work on the applicaiton itself. Most universities have their regular admission applicaitons due between November and January. However, students will not receive the final decision until a much later date.

This is common for large universities and allows students to apply at any point during the admissions period, typically between September through July. For students who decide late to attend a universtiy, this provides them with the perfect opportunity. It is important to note that rolling admissions works on a first come, first serve basis. Once the seats are full they will no longer accept students.