Pay attention to deadlines and details.

     The way you pay attention to deadlines and details speaks to the quality of student you are and can help you secure more financing towards school.

     It is critical, when a school has so many applicants from so many students, to put your best foot forward and always present yourself in the best light. How do you want to be perceived?  Turning in your application on time in a nice neat package with all parts present makes you look organized.  Arriving to a college interview having read the catalogue and website, with a list of questions that can't be answered from either makes you look smart and prepared.  Do you think a college would like an organized, prepared, smart student to be a part of their student body?  I do, so pay attention to the details and deadlines.

     Not only is it important to pay attention to deadlines and details for college applications, but it is important to pay attention  for financial reasons.  Do you know that schools are more likely to give students more scholarships/grants to attend their school the earlier they receive requests?  If you are one of the last people to ask for aid or scholarships there might not be any left for you, whereas there may have been if you had inquired earlier or completed your forms earlier. In addition, scholarships, contests, and grants all have deadlines.  You have to meet those deadlines just to be considered for the monetary award.  Get a calendar and put down all the due dates so that you don't miss out on opportunities to earn money toward school.