After the Decision, Now What?
1. Make Deposits
Most colleges will communicate with students via the college portal. A college knows for sure a student is attending their campus when the student pays the Academic Deposit. In order to reserve dorm space, students need to pay a Housing Deposit which puts them in line to choose a dorm and roommate. Every college has a different timeline, so students should read carefully the college website under Housing or Residential Life.
2. Decline Politely
After making the decision, students should contact the colleges they will not attend to thank them. It is a courteous gesture that helps the colleges send out acceptance letters to students on the waiting list. Admissions officers know students are applying to multiple colleges, so students need not feel bad.
3. Finish High School
A bad grade could make trouble for status as an accepted student or for any scholarships/grants.
4. Get Excited and Connected
Research groups on campus. Join the Instagram account for YOG 2025. Meet people. Students, ask parents to join the Parents Facebook college page.
5. Sign Up for a Welcome/Orientation Program (even if virtual)
The college invites students to attend welcome programs, asks to assist them in choosing classes, explains their system of supports available and helps get students acclimated to the campus. COVID-19 may force virtual meetings again for this fall.
6. Submit Scores and Sign Up for Placement Testing
Make sure the college receives AP and IB test scores. Some colleges require placement tests to ensure students register for the correct level classes, so sign up for those tests. Also sign up for academic advising and registration.
7. Read All of the Correspondence from Your College
Colleges will now convey important information via their portal or your email – deposit deadlines, financial aid completion, housing, orientation, learning communities, visit events, meet and greets. Read the emails, regularly check the portal, open mail from the college and respond to any requests they have.