As the class of 2018 adjusts to their title as seniors, many students feel overwhelmed by the college application process and some aren’t sure where to begin.

Fall is a great time to visit schools and narrow down a list of your favorite colleges. Most campuses bustle with activity and reveal their atmospheres as students run to class or the library. After touring Worcester Polytechnic Institute, senior Katie Pereira says she “really likes the campus and the tour definitely convinced me to apply.”

Guidance Counselor Tesha Ward says seniors should be writing application essays, asking teachers for recommendation letters, and applying for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Some schools require students to take the SAT or ACT with the essay, while others are test optional. The College Board states that “you should take the SAT more than once… additional coursework since your last test could help boost your performance.”

Ward says that “Students usually struggle the most with keeping track of deadlines.” To stay organized, she recommends researching the schools’ registration dates and admissions requirements.

As students attempt to complete applications and finish homework assigned every night, some can’t help but feel anxious.

Senior Angel Estrada feels “pretty stressed and overwhelmed” by the entire process. “So far I’ve only finished filling out my Common App information and I haven’t even started any of the essays,” she says.

These tasks may seem intimidating, but they are manageable for those who prioritize and plan all of the responsibilities. “Once the college acceptance letters start to come in the mail, all of the hard work finally feels worth it,” says Ward.

“Although there is a light at the end of the tunnel, there is still a while to go,” says Ward. After submitting college applications, seniors will have to focus their attention on applying for scholarships.