apply to college

How do I apply to a college?

Step 1: Send your test scores to the college(s) during 11th grade spring testing

Almost all colleges/universities need your SAT or ACT scores. (There are some colleges that don't require an SAT or ACT. Be sure to check if the school you're interested in has a "no test score" option for applying).
During your 11th grade year you will take the SAT in the spring as part of state and district mandated testing. When registering for the SAT you will have the opportunity to send your scores to up to 4 colleges. This way the schools you plan on applying to will have your scores on file to match with your application, and there is no cost to you.
Every time you register to take an SAT or ACT, even if you take one on your own outside of school, you can choose to have your scores sent to up to 4 colleges for no additional fee. If you did that during registration, then those schools already have your scores!
If you did not have your scores sent to a college when registering for the SAT or ACT, go to the following sites to log into your account and request to have your scores sent. There is a fee per school.
- To send your SAT scores, go to the College Board website
- To send ACT scores, go to the ACT website

Step 2: Complete the application on the college(s) website(s) & pay fee starting August of your 12th grade year

Many schools use the Common Application.
Need a recommendation? Complete the Student Recommendation Request Form and return it to your counselor.

Step 3: Request your transcript to be sent to the college(s) through Parchment.com during 1st semester of your 12th grade year

Log on to your Parchment.com account to send your transcript.
New to Parchment? This hand out will help!
Are you a dual enrolled student with one of our local community colleges? Be sure to send your college transcript as well!
- LMC: Read here for information on how to request your LMC transcript.
- KVCC: Read here for information on how to request your KVCC transcript.

Tips & Additional Resources

Not sure where you want to attend? Search colleges and find your college fit with Big Future through College Board
Compare info about different colleges and universities here.
Search for and compare colleges and universities using College Navigator
Not sure about college?
- Read Michigan College Access Network's information on why it is! - Is college worth it?
- Read College: What It's All About and Why It Matters from Big Future through College Board
- Remember that Community College is college! Read Why Community College
Information when preparing for college as well as when you're in college, check out Go College! Now.
Compare college tuition rates at College Scorecard
SAT Prep Guide- https://www.bestcolleges.com/resources/sat-prep/