After you press submit on your college applications, it’s natural to feel a mix of relief, pride, and anxiety. You’ve likely poured months—maybe years—into this moment. But now what? Is it just a waiting game until decisions arrive?
Not quite. I often tell students that what you do after submitting can be just as important as what you did before. This period is more than a pause—it’s a transition. It’s a chance to reinforce your candidacy, prepare for next steps, and take care of yourself emotionally and academically.
What to Do After Submitting Your College Applications (Next Steps)
Submitting your college applications is a major milestone, but it’s not the end of your journey. In fact, there are several practical and strategic steps you should take while waiting for decisions.
1. Confirm Receipt and Monitor Portals
Most colleges will send you a confirmation email once they’ve received your application. These often include login instructions for applicant portals. If you don’t get that email within a week or two, follow up with the admissions office.
Inside these portals, you can check if your transcript, test scores, recommendation letters, and other materials have arrived. I’ve seen many students assume everything was sent when it wasn’t. One student I worked with, Priya, realized her counselor recommendation never uploaded correctly. Because she caught it early via the portal, she was able to fix it before the deadline passed.
2. Keep Your Grades Strong
Just because your application is in doesn’t mean your academics no longer matter. Colleges often request mid-year reports, and a significant drop in grades can impact admissions decisions—especially at selective schools.
Students sometimes underestimate this. I recall a senior named James who thought “senioritis” was harmless. But a C in calculus led one of his top-choice schools to place him on a waitlist. It was a tough lesson in follow-through.
Stay focused in your classes, and if you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Colleges value resilience and responsibility as much as raw GPA.
3. Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships
Submitting your FAFSA and CSS Profile (if required) is essential if you want to be considered for need-based aid. Ideally, you completed these around the same time as your applications, but if not, don’t panic—just do it as soon as possible.
You can access the Free Application for Federal Student Aid at studentaid.gov, and you can find deadlines for the CSS Profile on the College Board website. Missing these deadlines can cost you thousands in aid.
This is also a great time to apply for outside scholarships. I guide students through options like the Gates Millennium Scholarship or STEM opportunities. I’ve seen students cover their entire freshman year through private scholarships alone. If you’re unsure where to start, check out our guide on how to write a winning scholarship essay.
4. Prepare for Interviews (If Applicable)
Some colleges, especially selective liberal arts schools and Ivy League institutions, may invite you for interviews after reviewing your application. These interviews can be evaluative or informational, and it’s important to treat them seriously.
Brush up on your college-specific knowledge, revisit your application, and consider practicing with a counselor or mentor. Our breakdown of top college interview questions is a great place to start.
One student I worked with, Diego, nailed his interview with Boston University because he prepared specific examples related to their global programs. He later told me the interviewer even mentioned those stories in his acceptance letter.
5. Express Continued Interest (When Appropriate)
If you applied Early Decision or Early Action and were deferred, don’t sit back in silence. It’s often worth writing a letter of continued interest. This letter should affirm your enthusiasm for the school and provide any new, meaningful updates (academic awards, leadership roles, personal growth).
Learn how to approach this tactfully in our guide to writing a letter of continued interest. It can make a real difference. I’ve seen students move from deferred to admitted by articulating why they’re still a great fit.
6. Take Care of Your Mental Health
This waiting period can be emotionally intense. You might feel hopeful one moment, anxious the next. That’s normal—but it’s also a good reason to prioritize self-care.
Spend time with people who support you. Engage in hobbies that make you feel grounded. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone: a counselor, trusted teacher, or family member. You’re not alone in this process.
I remember a student named Lena who journaled every day after submitting. It helped her process the uncertainty and stay connected to her goals, rather than obsessing over what she couldn’t control.
What NOT to Do After Submitting Your Applications
Just as there are smart follow-up steps, there are also a few common missteps I always warn students about.
Don’t Post Inappropriate Content Online
Admissions officers have been known to revoke offers based on what they find publicly on social media. If you haven’t already, now is the time to clean up your digital footprint. Our article on social media and college admissions offers essential tips.
Don’t Badger Admissions Offices
It’s okay to follow up if something is genuinely missing from your file. But repeatedly calling or emailing just to “check in” can come across as pushy. Instead, use your applicant portal and only reach out when necessary.
Don’t Slack Off Academically or Behaviorally
Offers of admission are conditional. A significant drop in performance or disciplinary issues can lead to rescinded offers. Stay consistent with your values and your effort.
Don’t Compare Yourself to Others
Every student’s path is different. Just because your friend gets an early acceptance doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong. Focus on your journey, not someone else’s timeline. I know that’s easier said than done, but it’s something I remind students—and myself—often.
FAQs About the Post-Application Period
How long do I have to wait before I hear back?
It depends on the decision plan. Early Action and Early Decision results typically arrive in December, while Regular Decision notifications usually come between March and April. Check each college’s website for details.
Can I update colleges with new achievements?
Yes—many colleges welcome updates, especially if you’ve received a major award or honor. Be concise, professional, and only share meaningful additions. Use the applicant portal or email the admissions office directly.
Should I apply to more colleges after submitting my main list?
If you feel your list is unbalanced (e.g., too many reach schools), it’s okay to apply to additional match or safety schools. Just be mindful of deadlines. Our post on how many colleges to apply to can help guide that decision.
What if I want to take a gap year after getting accepted?
That’s a valid option—and one that more students are considering. Just make sure to notify your college and follow their deferral process. Read our thoughts on how gap years affect admissions.
Final Thoughts
Submitting your college applications is a milestone worth celebrating. But it’s also the beginning of a delicate waiting period that requires focus, patience, and self-compassion.
I’ve walked with hundreds of students through this exact phase. Some were admitted to their dream schools. Others faced deferrals or rejections—and still found incredible colleges where they thrived. The truth is, what matters most is not where you go, but how you grow.
So take a breath. Stay engaged. And remember: this moment doesn’t define your future. It simply sets it in motion.