If you’re feeling overwhelmed by college apps, trust me, you’re not alone. With deadlines coming up, essays to write, and so much planning to do, it can definitely feel like too much. But before you spiral, let’s break this down into something way less stressful.

Get a Game Plan Together

Don’t let all those deadlines scare you. Start by figuring out what you need to do and when. Write down the deadlines for each school and focus on what’s due first. Hot take: Not every school deserves your essay-writing energy. Prioritize the ones you actually want to attend and put the most effort there. Save the rest for later (or not at all, tbh).

A Timeline Can Help

Sometimes it helps to see it all laid out. Here's a rough timeline for the 2024 Common App season that you can tweak based on your schools’ deadlines:

• August - September 2024: Research colleges and start narrowing down your list.
• Late September - Early October 2024: Finalize your college list and start essay drafts.
• Early October 2024: Ask for letters of recommendation.
• November 1, 2024: Submit early decision apps.
• November - Early December 2024: Finalize essay edits.
• December - January 2025: Submit regular decision apps.
• October 1, 2024 - January 2025: File FAFSA and any financial aid forms.

Adjust this based on your schools’ specific deadlines, but sticking to a plan will help you avoid cramming everything in last minute.

Break the Big Stuff Down

Essays stressing you out? Same. Instead of trying to tackle the whole thing in one go, break it down. Spend a day drafting the intro, then move on to the body paragraphs another day. Don’t try to write a Pulitzer Prize winner on the first draft. Hot take: Your Common App essay doesn’t have to change the world—it just has to show who you are. Struggling with where to start? Try our free Story Strategist Tool to get you going.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

If you’re stuck, it’s okay to ask someone to read over your essay or answer any questions you have. Sometimes a second opinion makes all the difference. Use our Essay Draft Editor for quick edits for flow of ideas, grammar, etc.

Take Care of Yourself

Don’t forget to take breaks. Seriously, go touch grass. Watch an episode of something or hang with friends for a bit. You don’t need to be working 24/7, and stepping away for a minute can clear your head and make your work better when you come back. You can do this. Happy application szn!