Below you'll find some helpful information for completing college and university admissions applications, including help on how to write an autobiography.
Choose from the links below to view two sample letters for reference when preparing requests for applications or financial aid.
The links below launch the sample letters in a new window.
Allow yourself sufficient time to complete the application form. A "rush job" results in careless errors. Work at home, alone, in a quiet place where you can give the application the attention it deserves.
Read directions carefully; follow them accurately.
Use the same legal name on all applications.
Read all questions on the form and think about your answers before you begin to write.
Photocopy the application or write all answers to the essay questions on scrap paper first. Ask your English teacher to proofread your essay before writing it on the application form.
Make your answers truthful, specific and concise.
Type or write neatly. The appearance of your application will influence the Admissions Committee.
Plan your use of page space. If a small space is provided for a long answer, use the space above and below the line, but keep all writing the same size.
If you are not using a typewriter, use erasable blue or black ink. If you make an error, neatly use correction fluid. Use the same color of ink throughout.
Many colleges will refuse a request for a second application form; avoid errors, cross-outs, and ink blots.
Avoid spelling errors; use a dictionary.
Answer all questions. Do not leave blank spaces. If a question does not apply to you, place a dash (-), NA (not applicable) or zero (0) in the blank.
If an application fee is required, enclose a check, money order or fee waiver (if available and you qualify) with your application.
If a photo is requested, paste or staple it to the form in the space provided. An expensive studio portrait is not necessary. Consult the Yellow Pages for "Passport Photo Studio." They will furnish adequate photos quickly at a low cost.
Photocopy all applications and obtain a "Certificate of Mailing" from the post office. Keep the copies of the applications and the certificate receipts in a safe place.
Get a Social Security Number if you do not already have one.
DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO WRITE YOUR AUTOBIOGRAPHY.
Write your first draft in pencil.
Erase mistakes and correct as you write.
Put your draft aside for 24 hours and then read it again.
Make corrections in sentence structure, grammar, punctuation and spelling.
If possible, let someone else (an English teacher) read and evaluate your autobiography.
Type or write your final draft legibly in black ink.
Below is a suggested format for an autobiographical essay. Please note the inclusion of related facts in each separate paragraph. You may choose to organize your own autobiography differently.
1st Paragraph - Introduce yourself and your family: State your position in your family - only child, oldest, youngest or in between, and number of brothers and sisters. Discuss your family situation - do you live with one or both parents, or with a guardian? Do your parents work? Is your family receiving aid? Share challenges that you have overcome that have contributed to your self-esteem.
2nd Paragraph - Discuss your school and community: What is the average family income in the area - high, medium, or low? Is your community comprised mostly of apartments, condos or houses? Do you participate in any community or church activities? Describe some of your school experiences and activities.
3rd Paragraph - Discuss college and career aspirations: Why do you want to go to college? Do you have a career goal or are you undecided at the present time? What is your present field of interest - math, music, foreign language, etc.? You might want to mention a person, course, etc., that has influenced your present career goal.
4th Paragraph - Discuss your current grade point average: Are you satisfied with your present grades? If not, what are the factors that contributed to your low grades - no place to study at home, work after school, illness, etc.?
5th Paragraph - Discuss your extra-curricular activities: Do you have any special hobbies or talents - singing, playing an instrument, writing poetry, athletics, etc.?
6th Paragraph - Summarize and state your future plans: What are your hopes and goals? Would you like to travel? How will going to college affect your life?
Photocopy your autobiography for your records, or if you used a computer, keep it on a disk.
