College Applications

Apply Texas

This one application can be sent to most Texas colleges and universities for admissions and scholarship opportunities. This website is also used to track your FAFSA application. 

Common App

If you are looking to apply to colleges outside of Texas, this one application can be sent to most colleges in Texas as well as outside of Texas.

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It's important to check with each college or university you're interested in to determine their preferred application. Many schools prefer you apply through Apply Texas or the Common App, but others may have their own unique application forms.

Here are some general steps to consider when applying to college:

  1. Research: Identify schools that align with your academic and personal goals.
  2. Check Requirements: Understand each school's specific application deadlines, fees, and required materials (e.g., transcripts, test scores, essays).
  3. Complete Applications: Fill out the required applications accurately and thoughtfully.
  4. Submit Supporting Materials: Ensure that letters of recommendation, essays, and any additional documents are submitted on time.
  5. Follow Up: Stay organized and track application deadlines and submission dates.

By following these steps and paying attention to individual school requirements, you'll increase your chances of a successful college application process.

Early Decision vs. Early Action: What's the Difference?

Are you applying to college confused about early decision vs early action? Let's break it down!

Early Decision:

  • Binding: If accepted, you must attend that school.

  • Deadline: Typically in November.

  • Commitment: Only apply to one ED school.

  • Decision: You'll find out sooner, usually by December!

  • Can't compare financial aid offers before committing.

Early Action:

  • Non-binding: You can apply to multiple schools and still decide later!

  • Deadline: Usually November, too.

  • Decision: You'll still hear back early, but you're not locked in!

  • Compare offers: You can see all your options and make a decision by May!

Pro Tip: Early Decision is great if you're 100% sure of your top choice and money isn't an issue, while Early Action gives you flexibility! Choose what's right for you!

www.ccmrwithmsthrash.com/seniors/admission-options/

College Visits

College Visit Request Form <---Click here

College visits are ONLY approved for juniors and seniors – only two days per year may be coded as college visit.

At least TWO school days before your visit:

  • Complete this form with parent/guardian signatures.

  • Your assistant principal must approve the college visit 2 days in advance.

  • Once your form has been completed and approved you will turn this form in to the attendance office.

  • You MUST bring back something that proves you attended the college/university.

This documentation MUST be turned into the attendance office no later than 5 school days after your college visit. ONLY with this documentation will your college visit day be excused.

Things to consider when applying to colleges

⭐Location: While some students prefer to stay close to home, others seek new surroundings in a different state. Deciding on your ideal location and surroundings will help you narrow down the pool.

⭐Major offerings: Have a particular major or career path in mind? Major offerings and education quality should be a major deal maker — or breaker — when it comes to choosing a college.

⭐Sports offerings: If you hope to join a school sports team, check out their athletic programs as well as the requirements and openings.

⭐Campus size: Determine whether you'd thrive in a big, bustling campus or prefer a small and familiar community.

⭐Class size: If you're used to a close-knit class with small sizes, consider whether a large school will benefit or limit you.

⭐Religious affiliation: If being part of a religious community is important to you, you may want to consider pursuing a faith-based university education.

⭐College reputation: *Don’t believe everything you hear.* We encourage students to conduct their own research and communicate with our college counselors, as well as college admission representatives, to see whether the college is a good fit for you.

Colleges with No Essay Requirements

(This list is not comprehensive)

  • Abilene Christian University

  • Angelo State University

  • Concordia University

  • Dallas Baptist University

  • Houston Baptist University

  • Lamar University

  • LeTourneau University

  • Midwestern State University

  • Our Lady of the Lake University

  • Prairie View A&M University

  • Sam Houston State University

  • Stephan F. Austin State University

  • Sul Ross State University

  • Tarleton State University

  • Texas A&M International University - Laredo

  • Texas A&M University - Commerce

  • Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

  • Texas A&M University - Kingsville

  • Texas A&M University - San Antonio

  • Texas A&M University - Texarkana

  • Texas Southern University

  • Texas Woman's University

  • University of Texas at Arlington

  • University of Texas at El Paso

  • University of Texas of the Permian Basin

  • University of Texas at Tyler

  • University of Houston - Clear Lake

  • University of Houston - Victoria

  • University of the Incarnate Word

  • West Texas A&M University