Research colleges to which you want to apply. There are over 200 colleges and universities in Texas, ranging from community colleges to big, public state universities. Speak with a guidance counselor or do a simple search with the College Board website online. You'll want to find a college that matches your interest in location, major, academic rigor and extracurricular activities offered.
Register for and take the SAT or ACT. These college admissions tests are required by almost all higher education institutions. They are offered several times throughout the year, usually once or twice every season. Once these tests are completed, you will be able to forward the scores to the schools where you have applied.
Prepare all application materials in advance. While the applications will be slightly different, each school will require essentially the same information. In addition to your test scores, you will be required to submit at least one essay, two or three letters of recommendation and your official high school transcripts. Each part of the application is important, but schools will pay particular attention to the essay and letters of recommendation.
Access the ApplyTexas application online. This is the centralized location to apply to colleges in Texas. Colleges that use this resource require you to fill it on only once. When it is completed, you are able to forward the application to all schools to which you are applying. If your college does not use ApplyTexas, contact their admissions department about receiving an application.
Complete and double check all application forms. In addition to the basic application, some colleges will require supplemental materials. Art schools require a portfolio of work. Rice University in Houston, in addition to the ApplyTexas application, has their own separate form for all students to fill out. If a school requires any supplemental information, it will be clearly marked on the ApplyTexas application.
Pay all application fees. These range from $35 to $75. If you qualify for a fee waiver because of financial reasons, contact your guidance counselor about getting the necessary forms.
Submit your applications. After they are submitted, there will be a waiting period of a couple weeks up to a couple months. After your application is reviewed, you will be denied admission, offered admission or given the chance to interview for a place at the college.