The process of college admissions requires you to follow a definite pathway starting from research and profile building to writing your common app and supplementary essays. Reflecting and reviewing your application is one significant step that assists you in detecting any red flags that you may have overlooked or ignored previously. An application red flag is something that causes an admissions official to doubt your qualifications and suitability for their university.
Take a note of these five red flags before submitting your college application:
1. Not following directions
While being aware of the degree of competitiveness in the process of college admissions, it is often easy to neglect the basic requirements for the application. For example, have you made sure that you have addressed all subquestions in your main essay prompt? Are you abiding by the given word count? Are you sending the required documents in the correct format? Make a note of what is expected and explicitly follow it.
2. Incomplete materials or information
To leave a certain section of your application process for later is not uncommon, however, one must make sure to check that the application is complete before hitting the submit button. An incomplete application not only shows a lack of effort but it also provides insufficient information for the admissions committee to make a decision. Make a to-do checklist with specific details in order to follow the directions and not miss out on what is required.
3. Lack of specific details, evidence, or context
Details add value to your application. Rather than stating that you were a part of the social service club at your school, mention your role in the club. Give a brief about the motive of the club. A detail that may seem insignificant to you might impress the admissions committee of your dream university.
4. Unexplained grade dips, curriculum changes, or disciplinary infractions
Provide additional context or justification for a drop in grades, a change in courses, or any discipline-related issues. This is where you should give more information to describe what occurred, why it happened, and how you’ve evolved as a result of the experience.
5. Typos and spelling or grammatical errors
Even though you make sure to run your essay on spellcheck software, some grammatical essays slide past. Proofreading is key. One or two spelling or grammatical problems can often be overlooked, but if your essay is littered with them, admissions authorities will find it unappealing.
Check for these five red flags before submitting your college application!
How can Rostrum help
Mentors at Rostrum provide in-depth guidance during the entire course of your college application process while also identifying these red flags for you. Contact us today for a free session and get started!
