For those who are neurodivergent, navigating the college application process can be daunting. ADDitude recognizes this challenge and provides a system for tracking tasks with less stress in their article College Application Guide for Neurodivergent Students.
1. Use Tracking Tools: Create a system to track college application deadlines that works for you, whether it entails using pen and paper or a digital system like spreadsheets. Whatever system you choose, be sure to schedule each task’s deadline one week before it is truly due.
2. Give Thought to Essays: Determine how many essays you need to write to successfully complete each application. Break down the writing process by writing drafts of essays and use writing tools like graphic organizers.
3. Schedule Admission Exams: While not every college still requires SAT or ACT scores, be sure to schedule and take any required exams as soon as possible in case you want to retest later.
4. Request Recommendations: Decide on who to seek a recommendation letter from and provide them with early due dates and suggestions on what to write about you, such as your experience in a club, sport, internship, job, or volunteer experience. Send thank-you notes when the recommendation letters have been completed.
5. Gather Transcripts: Request transcripts from your guidance counselor and ask how to complete the college admissions process.
6. Search for Scholarships: Scholarships may be available from your school, as well as national and local organizations. Check for their own unique requirements and deadlines.
7. Consider Financial Aid: Check and track federal and state FAFSA deadlines (studentaid.gov). They require financial records and the completion of specific forms.
The college application process can feel overwhelming but breaking down the process into smaller, manageable steps can help. Visit ATTitude’s website to read the full article on making this process easier for those with a neurodivergent brain.