The college application process is a big deal. In many ways, it’s one of the most important assignments you’ll complete in high school. Like any other big project, applying for college demands careful planning, attention to detail, and a clear understanding of what is expected of you. While not every college requires every component, many schools ask for materials like essays, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and lists of extracurriculars. Together, these pieces contribute to the story you’re sharing about yourself. Your application should showcase your strengths, ambitions, and unique qualities. However, even small missteps can weaken your application. Avoiding common application mistakes can make all the difference with admissions.
1. Submitting a Generic or Weak Essay
Even if writing isn’t your strongest skill, you are still capable of writing a good essay about yourself. What really matters in college admissions essays is your perspective. Your essay is the place where you want to stand out, so don’t waste that opportunity with a generic response. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so they’re pretty good at telling when a student is writing what they think a school wants to hear instead of something authentic. Write your essay so that it conveys your personal perspective or story in a way that isn’t evident elsewhere in your application. If you are worried your topic is too common, focus on how you can tell your story in a way that reflects your personality and growth. Finding the right angle can be tough, so don’t be afraid to work with a trusted counselor, teacher, or advisor to develop your narrative. Just don’t rely on them too much when it comes to the details.
2. Leaving Out Personal Details
Speaking of details, context matters a lot in college applications. Your background, family dynamics, home responsibilities, and community experiences all shape who you are. While it might feel uncomfortable to share personal details, especially if they discuss a difficult time in your life, they can provide admissions with a better understanding of your journey. These details could even impact acceptance or scholarship opportunities. However, there is a balance to strike here. Avoid oversharing and leaning on negative experiences too much. Every piece of information you share needs to serve a purpose. If you discuss a relevant struggle, relate it to the lessons you learned and the growth you experienced.
3. Failing to Demonstrate Interest in the School
Many students choose to apply to multiple colleges at once using the Common Application. However, other students choose to apply directly on a college’s individual application. If you decide to apply directly to a particular school, make it clear you’re excited about their institution. Many schools consider demonstrated interest, so take the time to research what makes each school unique. In your essay or supplemental responses, explain why you’re a good fit for the college and what you hope to gain from attending. This shouldn’t be a generic statement; it should come from an authentic understanding of the school’s programs, culture, and opportunities.
4. Not Prioritizing Grades and Test Scores
Grades and test scores are critical metrics admissions uses when deciding whether to accept someone. Though some colleges have made standardized tests like the SAT or ACT optional, grade point average (GPA) remains important. You should maintain a strong GPA, especially in any courses relevant to your desired major, to show you’re capable of college-level work. If you struggle with standardized tests but they are required for a school you’re interested in, prepare ahead of time and retake them if necessary. Leaving enough time for test prep can make a significant difference in your scores.
5. Not Including All Extracurriculars
While grades are among the top factors considered by application officers, extracurriculars aren’t far behind. It’s these activities that set you apart from other applicants, after all. Whether you’ve participated in sports, clubs, internships, volunteer work, or held a job, these experiences provide insight into your character and interests. Don’t be afraid to include multiple activities in this section, especially if you’ve been involved for a long time or held any kind of leadership role. Even hobbies that might seem unusual can make your application more compelling when explained thoughtfully. Just don’t exaggerate or fib to make yourself seem more interesting.
6. Submitting Weak Letters of Recommendation
Your letters of recommendation should come from people who truly know you and can speak to your strengths. Avoid choosing someone just because they have a good title or they are closely related to you. Instead, consider teachers, coaches, or mentors with whom, over time, you’ve built a strong relationship. No matter who you decide to choose for a letter of recommendation, make sure you give them plenty of time to write something thoughtful.
7. Waiting to the Last Minute
Most colleges have rolling admissions from early September through the spring. Before you begin working on your application, you need to know the exact deadline. Give yourself plenty of time to work on your application; you don’t have to complete every part of the application in one sitting. Rushing to meet deadlines increases the likelihood of errors and missed opportunities.
8. Not Proofreading the Application
Simple errors in spelling, grammar, or formatting can make your application look sloppy. Ignoring word count limits or forgetting to attach required documents can also cause issues. Take the time to carefully review your entire application before submitting. Better yet, have a teacher, counselor, or other trusted adult review it as well. Common application tips like reading your essay aloud or using grammar-checking tools can help catch mistakes you might otherwise miss.
Learn More About Villa
At Villa, we make it easier for students excited about our programs to apply. We offer rolling acceptance, have no required deposits or application fees, are test-optional, and provide quick application responses. We encourage you to reach out to our admissions team if you have any questions about degree programs, the application process, or to schedule a tour.
