After students push the “submit” button on their college applications, they may be tempted to shut their laptops and happily move onto other parts of their busy lives. However, as college admissions expert Stephanie Meade warns, there are still many things students need to do to make sure they do not miss crucial communications from the colleges they have applied to.
Submitting your college application is NOT the finish line — it’s just the beginning
Too many students hit “submit” and think their work is done. The truth is, there are critical next steps that can make or break admission. From setting up an application portal to demonstrating interest, completing interviews, and uploading additional information, what students do after they apply is just as important as the application itself.
In this essential guide, college admissions expert Stephanie Meade, founder and principal of Collegiate Edge educational consulting firm, explains exactly what happens after a student submits — and how to avoid the mistakes that derail strong applications.
Watch this video to learn about important application next steps
- Why an application portal is a student’s lifeline (and how to set it up right away)
- What to do if colleges request missing or additional information
- How demonstrated interest (emails, visits, webinars) impacts admission decisions
- Tips for college interviews and how they factor into an application
- Why even Early Decision applicants have more work to do after hitting submit
- Common mistakes students make after submitting — and how to avoid them
Pro tip: Colleges notice who stays engaged. Submitting is step one — but showing interest, following directions, and staying on top of requests shows admissions officers you’re serious.
Whether your student is applying Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision, this video will help you understand what happens next, so your teen stays on track, reduces stress, and doesn’t miss a critical step in the admissions process.
About Stephanie Meade
Stephanie Meade is an Independent Educational Consultant and founder of Collegiate Edge, a Los Angeles-based private counseling practice serving families nationwide and internationally. She is a Certified Educational Planner, a professional designation that recognizes her high level of skills and professionalism as well as her extensive experiences in working with families. She is also a member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), National Association for College Admissions Counseling (NACAC) and the Western Association for College Admissions Counseling (WACAC.)
With decades of experience, she helps students and parents navigate every stage of college admissions — from building a balanced list and writing strong essays to meeting deadlines and managing their post-application strategy.
Stephanie is known for her calm, practical, and student-centered approach that reduces stress and keeps the focus on fit and success.
More Great Admissions Insight From Stephanie Meade:
Demonstrated Interest: 22 Ways Teens Can Boost Their Chance of Admission
