After the SAT
Your journey continues after the SAT. Learn everything about college applications, program selection, and career planning to maximize your chances of success.
The Application Process
Gather documents and plan your choices
To do:
- Download high school transcripts
- Gather SAT results
- Identify desired programs
- Check admission statistics
- Prepare personal statement (if required)
Apply via the college portal
To do:
- Create account on the application portal
- Select up to 8 programs
- Prioritize your choices
- Attach any required documents
- Pay application fee
Admission results and waitlist
To do:
- Check the portal regularly
- Prepare for possible waitlist
- Plan alternative paths
- Watch for supplemental rounds
Accept your spot and prepare for the start of studies
To do:
- Accept the offered spot
- Apply for financial aid
- Arrange housing
- Attend orientation activities
- Purchase course materials
Popular Program Categories
Engineering and natural science programs
Civil Engineering
20.0Computer Science
19.5Medicine
22.4Biotechnology
19.8Law, economics, and social science programs
Law
21.8Economics
19.5Political Science
18.2International Relations
19.0Medical and healthcare-related programs
Medical School
22.4Dentistry
22.0Nursing
17.5Psychology
21.2Languages, literature, and cultural studies programs
Translation
18.5Journalism
19.2History
16.8Philosophy
17.2Different Career Paths
Directly from education into the workforce
Advantages:
- Quick income
- Clear career path
- Stability
Challenges:
- Less flexibility
- Limited early experience
Right for you if:
Students who know what they want and value stability
Start your own company during or after school
Advantages:
- Unlimited potential
- Creative freedom
- Flexibility
Challenges:
- High risk
- Uncertain income
- Long hours
Right for you if:
Creative, risk-tolerant people with business ideas
Continue with research and teaching
Advantages:
- Intellectual stimulation
- Flexible schedule
- International opportunities
Challenges:
- Long education
- Uncertain positions
- Lower starting salary
Right for you if:
Students passionate about knowledge and research
Work abroad or in international organizations
Advantages:
- Cultural experience
- Higher salaries
- Personal growth
Challenges:
- Far from family
- Cultural challenges
- Complex logistics
Right for you if:
Adventurous people with language skills
Use these resources to make well-informed decisions
Career Assessment
Identify your interests and strengths
Information Sessions
Learn more about specific programs
Mentorship
Get advice from working professionals
Internship / Summer Job
Try out different career fields
Personal Interests
Choose something you are passionate about. Motivation is the key to success.
Financial Factors
Consider tuition costs, future salary, and loan repayment timelines
Location
Think about where you want to live and study. It affects your quality of life.
Job Market
Research future job opportunities in your chosen field
Choosing for Others
Do not let parents or friends decide your future for you
Chasing Prestige Only
A "prestigious" program is worthless if you are not happy there
Underestimating the Workload
Some programs require much more time and energy than others
Ignoring Backup Plans
Always have alternatives if your first choice does not work out
January - March
- • Research programs and colleges
- • Gather required documents
- • Prepare personal statements
- • Application window opens (March 16)
April - June
- • Application deadline (April 15)
- • Wait for admission decisions
- • Prepare for possible waitlist
- • Plan for fall semester start
July - August
- • Admission decisions arrive
- • Accept your offered spot
- • Apply for financial aid
- • Arrange housing and prepare for the start of classes
Ready to plan your future?
With the right preparation and planning, you can maximize your chances of getting into your dream school and building a successful career.