It’s best to apply for college between July and December of your senior year. If you apply as early as possible, more scholarships, options for orientation dates and housing preferences will be available to you.

For information in Spanish, please visit the Applying to College en Español page.

How do I apply?

Here’s the application process for most universities:

  • Learn the admission requirements for the schools you’d like to attend. Admission requirement vary by university or college.
  • Submit your application for admission at Apply Texas or via the Common Application.
  • Submit official transcripts.
  • Supply your class rank.
  • Send entrance exam scores (SAT 0r ACT) if you have them. They may not be required.
  • Pay the application fee.
  • Check if the schools also require an essay, interview or references.

Pro Tips:

  • Fill out your application completely and have someone check your work.
  • Submit your application by the priority dates listed for that university.
  • Ask your high school counselor or reach out to the college admissions office via phone, email or even on social media with any questions.

At UNT, we encourage students to submit their application by March 1 for the fall semester. After this date, applications are still accepted but are subject to a late fee. Learn more about the UNT admissions requirements and our admissions process today.

College entrance exams

Some universities require college entrance exams and, for some, placement tests as part of the college application. The SAT and ACT are the most common entrance exams.

  • The SAT is the most widely accepted college entrance exam with evidence-based reading, writing and math questions. Learn
  • The ACT is an alternative college entrance exam with English, math, reading and science reasoning questions.

However, at UNT and at many schools, these tests are optional and vary by the school’s admissions requirements.

Early College High School (ECHS)

If you choose to attend or are already attending an Early College High School, you’re able to receive both a high school diploma and an associate degree or at least 60 credit hours toward a bachelor’s degree. As an ECHS graduate, you can apply to college with coursework credits already under your belt. Make sure to reach out to your university for specific admissions requirements for ECHS students.

Dual Enrollment

Most high schools offer dual enrollment programs or courses that allow high school students to enroll in college courses and receive credit from both the college and high school. Students who complete dual enrollment courses may take fewer classes in college due to earning transferable college credit.

Placement tests

Advanced Placement (AP) courses/exams allow you to earn college credit while you’re in high school. There are nearly 40 exams offered and AP college credit is accepted by most universities worldwide. These tests will enable you to get a jumpstart on your college course load, allowing you to finish school quicker.

The above programs are a great way to get ahead in your college career and save money on tuition. They allow you to take fewer classes to graduate and might even help you to complete your bachelor’s degree in two or three years.

How To Choose