As a new school year kicks off, high school seniors are stepping into their final year filled with excitement and big decisions. Among that includes planning for life after graduation.
Apply Yourself Florida, Florida College Access Network’s statewide initiative, aims to support these students as they begin to research and apply to the colleges of their choice. Part of the American College Application Campaign (ACAC), this effort focuses on increasing the number of low-income and first-generation students who apply to college. Schools, districts, and communities can register for any of the College Ready Florida initiatives here.
A Call to Action: The Importance of Hosting a College Application Event
Hosting a college application event at your school can provide structured time, guidance, and motivation for students to start and complete their applications. They also offer access to resources and experts who can answer questions on the spot.
A few event ideas and activities:
- Essay Review Night – Bring in school staff or local college reps to provide feedback on personal statements and essays.
- Application Completion Day – Set aside a school day or after-school session to help students fill out college applications, FAFSA, and scholarships.
- Alum Panel – Invite recent graduates to share their college application experiences and answer student questions.
- Parent Info Night – Educate families on the college process, financial aid, and how they can support students.
Encouraging Students to Apply Early
The college application process is a journey that involves reflection, research, and strategy. Starting early helps reduce stress and increases the chances of finding the right fit. Additionally, many colleges have early decision deadlines in October or November.
Crafting compelling personal statements and gathering strong letters of recommendation takes time. Getting a head start means students can revise essays, request feedback, and properly review their application before submitting. With this, remind students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which opens by October 1, 2025.
Don’t Forget: #WhyApplyDay – September 19
Mark your calendar for #WhyApplyDay on September 19 – national day, sponsored by ACAC, to rally around students and celebrate the college application process. It’s a chance for students, educators, and communities to share why pursuing education beyond high school matters. Join the conversation on social media and encourage others to share their “why.”
Access the following resources to join and spread awareness on the college application process.
- Apply Yourself Florida Toolkit
- Apply Yourself Florida Printable Poster
- “Ask Me About It!” Poster
- ACAC Resources
- #WhyApply Selfie Printout (PDF)
- #WhyApply digital template
- WhyApply 2025 Social Media Toolkit
- Graphic – WhyApply 2025 Promo
- Graphic – WhyApply 2025 – ApplyAchieve
It Takes All of Us
Counselors, teachers, and school staff play a vital role in guiding and empowering students through this important process. By supporting students early and providing opportunities to take action, we can help ensure that every student has the tools to take the next step toward their future.