Staying Organized After Submitting Applications: What Still Matters (and What Doesn’t)
The Work Isn’t Over Yet
The “Submit” button has been clicked, and your student has officially completed one of the most stressful phases of high school. But even after the excitement and relief, there’s still more to manage.
For many families, the post-submission season brings confusion about what still matters and what can safely take a back seat. Staying organized during this period helps reduce anxiety, prevent missed opportunities, and set your student up for a smoother transition into admissions season.
What Still Matters After Submitting Applications
1. Track application portals and follow-ups.
Each college provides access to a student portal for checking the status of materials and updates. Encourage your student to log in weekly to confirm that transcripts, test scores, and recommendations have been received. And, there may be new deadlines or housing opportunities announced. So, set weekly reminders, not daily check-ins, to stay informed without adding stress.
2. Stay on top of financial aid and scholarships.
Even though the applications are done, the financial side continues. Complete the FAFSA and any institutional financial aid forms such as the CSS Profile (if your college requires it - check your portals!) as soon as possible. Research scholarship opportunities—many have deadlines that fall after application season.
Compliance Note: This content was created in 2025. Requirements, deadlines, and regulations may change. Always verify current guidelines through official sources before taking action.
3. Keep academics a priority.
Senior grades still matter! Colleges may ask to review mid-year transcripts before making final decisions, and strong performance can reinforce your student’s academic trajectory. This is also a chance for your student to show consistency through the finish line. Continue to build those study habits that will help you succeed in college!
4. Manage communication wisely.
Encourage your teen to regularly OPEN both their emails and college portals for official updates. Missing an important message about interviews, financial aid, or supplemental materials can hurt their application standing. Help you student create a spreadsheet of their colleges and what has been communicated to them regarding admission announcement dates, financial aid, and housing.
What Doesn’t Deserve the Worry
1. Comparing timelines and decisions.
Every college releases decisions on its own schedule. Avoid getting caught in the social media loop of “who heard back first.” External ‘noise’ ramps up after the holidays. Parents AND students - stay positive and don’t contribute to the ‘gossip’.
2. Over-checking portals.
It’s easy to feel impatient, but logging in daily only fuels anxiety. Encourage your student to step back, trust the process and just check in weekly, and go enjoy their senior year milestones.
3. Obsessing over what can’t be changed.
Essays, transcripts, and applications are submitted. At this point, it’s about patience and perspective. Help your students focus on what is important during their senior year and focus on activities and hobbies they may carry on with them through college!
