Decide on which colleges to which you will like to apply. Research the schools online. If you can make a road trip, visit the schools as soon as you decide that you are planning to go to college.
Research the deadlines. You can get deadline information online for the colleges that you select. Visit the Web sites for the colleges where you will find deadline information in the admissions section. To apply to college early, it's best to begin working on your applications five months before the final deadline. When researching deadline dates, look at the final application deadline for the semester or quarter that you will like to start attending college.
Get applications for the colleges of your choice. Most colleges have online applications. Go to the college's home page. Look for a link to the admissions department and click on the link. The school also may have a special section on its homepage for future students; that's where you will find the online application.
Complete the online application. Insert all of the required information in the application.
Complete financial aid forms. Federal financial aid applications may also be found online. Contact your school regarding school-sponsored scholarships and other awards to which you may be entitled. Submit the forms online.