10 Things to Do After Submitting Your College Applications

You’ve done it.
Weeks (or even months) of writing essays, chasing recommendations, and double-checking test scores have finally led to this moment — you’ve hit Submit.

Take a deep breath. That moment of relief is well deserved.

But even though the major work seems over, your college journey isn’t. What you do after submitting your applications matters — both for your peace of mind and for making sure everything goes smoothly.

Here are ten smart, productive things you can do once your college applications are in.

1. Confirm That Everything Was Received

It’s tempting to assume that once you hit submit, your application is in perfect shape. But technical glitches or missing materials happen more often than you’d think.

Within a few days of submission, most colleges will send you an email to set up an applicant portal. That’s where you can check whether all documents — transcripts, test scores, recommendations, and payments — have been received.

If you notice that something is marked “incomplete,” reach out to your school counselor or the admissions office. It’s a small step that could prevent big problems later.

2. Prepare for Possible Interviews

Not every college conducts interviews, but many selective schools do — either with admissions staff or alumni. It’s your chance to bring your story to life beyond the written application.

Start by reviewing your own application materials — essays, activities, and achievements. Think about how to elaborate on them naturally if asked.

You don’t need to memorize scripted answers, but prepare for common questions like:

• “Why did you choose our college?”

• “Tell me about something you’re proud of.”

• “What do you want to explore academically?”

If you can connect your interests to specific programs, professors, or opportunities at the college, even better.

3. Use the Waiting Period Wisely

Once applications are in, you might feel a void — that constant “What now?” feeling. Instead of refreshing portals daily, use this period to invest in yourself.

Read books outside your syllabus, explore hobbies, learn a new skill, or take an online course in a field you’re curious about.

For instance, if you wrote about economics in your application, taking an introductory Coursera course on behavioral economics shows continued intellectual curiosity — and it’s something you can later mention in interviews or update letters.

This is also a good time to relax and spend time with friends and family — you’ve earned it.

4. Keep Checking Your Email (and Spam Folder)

Colleges will communicate with you primarily by email — for portal updates, interview requests, scholarship information, or even missing materials.

Make it a habit to check your inbox daily, including your spam or promotions folders. You’d be surprised how many students miss interview invites or deadlines because they overlooked an important message.

You might even want to create folders or labels for each college to stay organized.

5. Maintain Strong Grades and Stay Involved

After months of hard work, “senior slump” can be tempting — but colleges still care about your performance after you apply. In fact, many require midyear transcripts, and a sudden dip in grades can raise red flags.

Keep your momentum going:

• Stay consistent in your classes.

• Continue extracurricular commitments or volunteer work.

• If you’re working on a new project or competition, document it — you might mention it later in updates to colleges or scholarship essays.

Admissions officers like to see students who stay curious and committed, even after deadlines have passed.

6. Update Colleges with Significant Achievements

If you win an award, publish a paper, or take on a new leadership role after submitting your application, you can notify your colleges with an update letter or through the applicant portal.

Not every small event needs an update — but meaningful achievements that strengthen your application are worth sharing.

7. Plan Ahead Financially

The waiting period is a great time to review your financial aid situation. Double-check that you’ve completed the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and, if applicable, the CSS Profile.

Look out for scholarship opportunities — both external and college-specific. Many community organizations, local businesses, and nonprofits offer scholarships for high school seniors, and deadlines often fall between January and March.

It’s also a good time to talk openly with your parents or guardians about college costs, preferred locations, and backup plans.

8. Prepare for Admission Decisions

Decisions can bring excitement, disappointment, or confusion — sometimes all at once. Prepare yourself emotionally for every outcome.

If you’re accepted, celebrate — but also compare offers carefully. Review financial aid packages, scholarship conditions, and campus culture before deciding.

If you’re deferred from an early decision or early action school, don’t panic. Send a letter of continued interest expressing enthusiasm and updating them on any new achievements. Many students get admitted in the regular round this way.

If you’re rejected, remember: it’s not a reflection of your worth. Admissions outcomes depend on multiple factors beyond your control. Focus on the next opportunity ahead — often, things work out better than expected.

9. Send a Thank-You Note to Your Recommenders

Your teachers, counselor, and sometimes even internship supervisors or mentors have invested time and effort into writing your recommendations. A sincere thank-you not only shows gratitude but also leaves a lasting impression.

You don’t need to write an essay — a short, genuine note or email works best. Mention what you enjoyed in their class or how their mentorship helped shape your goals.

For example:

It’s a small gesture, but it reflects maturity and respect — qualities that matter just as much beyond college applications.

10. Start Planning for College Life

Once decisions start rolling in, shift gears from applications to preparation.

Learn basic life skills — doing laundry, budgeting, managing time, or cooking simple meals. Research housing options, orientation programs, and student organizations at colleges where you’re admitted.

You can also start connecting with future classmates through official college groups or social media pages.

Bonus: Show Genuine Interest in Your Colleges

Now’s a good time to engage with the colleges you’ve applied to. Many schools value what’s called “demonstrated interest” — showing that you’re genuinely eager to join their community.

You can do this by attending virtual or in-person info sessions, meeting college reps at fairs, visiting campus, or even following the admissions office on social media.

While highly selective and large public universities usually don’t consider demonstrated interest, many mid-sized private colleges do.

To find out if a school tracks it, check their CollegeData or admissions profile. For example, Texas A&M University lists demonstrated interest as an important factor in admissions decisions.

A little authentic engagement can go a long way.

Final Thoughts

Submitting your college applications is a major milestone — one that deserves celebration. But it’s also just one step in a longer journey.

The months between submission and decision can feel uncertain, but they’re also a chance to reflect, plan, and grow.

Check your portals, thank your mentors, stay engaged, and most importantly — trust that your hard work will pay off.

Whether your acceptance letter arrives next month or next spring, what truly matters is that you keep moving forward with curiosity, gratitude, and confidence in what comes next.

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Amol & Nishant,

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