Applying to College Toolkit

Applying to college is a complicated process. From test scores to essays to financial aid forms, it requires knowledge, patience, and organization. In this toolkit you’ll find a variety of materials and resources to help you and your child manage the college applications process, including

A Countdown to College Timeline that outlines the steps college-bound teenagers need to take, starting with their freshman year of high school.

Female teacher in front of a group of students.

Articles & Resource Guides

Books

Web Resources

The booklet Applying to College: A guide for students

The following books are available at most local and online bookstores.

Peterson’s Guide to Two-Year Colleges and Peterson’s Guide to Four-Year Colleges
www.petersons.com/bookstore
America’s Best Colleges
U.S. News & World Report
www.usnews.com/usnews/store
The College Handbook
The College Board
At most bookstores
The Insider’s Guide to the Colleges
St. Martin’s Press
At most bookstores
The Fiske Guide to Colleges, by Edward Fiske
www.fiskeguide.com
At most bookstores

The following website links are helpful resources.

Peterson’s Education & Career Center
www.petersons.com
The College Board
www.collegeboard.com
FAFSA on the Web
www.fafsa.ed.gov
The Student Guide
www.studentaid.ed.gov/guide

Don't forget that you can call Military OneSource at 1-800-342-9647 to speak to an expert for personalized help with the college applications process, including selecting a college to apply to, information about admissions tests, scholarships, and paying for college.

Military OneSource can also conduct customized research and prepare customized reports for you, including the College Choice Planner, College Choice Analysis, and Financial Aid Planner.