Applying to college is an exciting milestone, but it’s also one of the most stressful experiences for teens to date. Between academic demands, financial concerns, and the pressure to make this big, life-changing decision, it’s no surprise that you feel overwhelmed during this process.
In this guide, you’ll learn about some of the most common stressors teens face when applying to college and the effective strategies you can employ to manage them. Whether you’re dealing with academic pressure, fear of rejection, or financial worries, there are ways to navigate these challenges and make this journey smoother.
Striving for perfection under academic pressure
For many teens, maintaining high grades while preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT is a significant source of stress. Add in the need to excel in extracurriculars, and the pressure to appear as the “perfect applicant” to get into the college of your dreams can feel crushing. Here are some ways to make this balancing act easier:
- Set realistic goals: Focus on steady improvement rather than immediate perfection. Set smaller, achievable goals to help motivate you to reach larger ones.
- Break tasks into steps: Create a timeline for studying and application tasks to avoid last-minute panic and break them down into more manageable sections.
- Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers, tutors, or counselors for academic and college application support. More serious situations may require professional help.
Related: How to Set Reasonable Expectations for Your SAT or ACT Scores
Managing deadlines and details of the college application process
From writing essays to gathering recommendation letters, the college application process can feel like a full-time job. Without proper planning, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tasks involved. Here are some top tips to make the process more successful:
- Start early: Begin working on your applications months in advance to avoid any last-minute stress or missing materials.
- Stay organized: Use a planner or checklist to track all your deadlines and requirements for each college you’re applying to.
- Visit campuses: Visiting college campuses can help you get a better sense of a school and how you’ll fit in, solidifying your choices of which schools to apply to.
- Ask for feedback: Share your admission essays and applications with trusted mentors for review and advice.
Balancing financial costs and college dreams
According to a 2024 report from the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of tuition and fees for a four-year public college is over $9,750 per year for in-state students and much higher for private institutions. These numbers can be daunting for teens and their families, leading to anxiety about how to afford higher education. Here are some ways you can combat these financial fears:
- Start saving early with scholarships: Many scholarships have deadlines well before senior year of high school. Begin your search early to maximize on opportunities and your chances of winning.
- Talk openly about costs: Have honest conversations with your family about what your budgeting and financial aid options are.
- Use free tools to find aid: Websites like the FAFSA, the College Board, and local resources can help you navigate financial aid and scholarship applications. You can also use scholarship search tools from sites like CollegeXpress and CareerOneStop.
Related: Parents, It's Time to Communicate About College Costs
Fearing the rejection of college admission
It’s natural to feel nervous about whether you’ll be accepted to your dream school. This fear can escalate when you see your peers receiving acceptance letters or posting their achievements online. One way to steer away from the fear of rejection is to apply to a wide range of colleges, including safety, match, and reach schools to keep your options open.
Avoiding peer pressure and social comparison
Remember that college admission is often subjective and doesn’t define your worth or future success. Instead of fixating on the success of others, focus on yourself and your strengths. Build a positive support network with friends who encourage and uplift you so you can celebrate your accomplishments. Imbue that energy into your college applications rather than comparing yourself to others.
Social media makes it too easy to see what your peers are achieving, but constant comparison can lead to self-doubt. It’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is unique. Consider limiting your social media use during admission season and taking breaks from platforms that amplify stress.
What to do when you’re about to crash
Everyone feels overwhelmed at times, and recognizing the signs of burnout early can help you take steps to recover before it becomes overwhelming. Start regaining control by:
- Taking a break: Step away from the task at hand and do something relaxing, like listening to music or taking a walk.
- Practicing mindfulness: Activities like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling can help calm your mind during stressful times.
- Talking to someone: Share your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or counselor. Sometimes, simply verbalizing your stress can be a relief.
- Reassessing your priorities: Focus on one task at a time rather than trying to tackle everything about the college application process at once.
Participate in self-care activities
Taking care of your mental health during the college application process is just as important as meeting deadlines. Self-care can help you recharge and stay resilient, so try to find activities that help you destress.
Physical activities reduce stress and boost your mood. Even a 20-minute walk can make a difference. Spend time on hobbies or activities that bring you joy, whether it’s painting, gaming, or reading. And, of course, make sure you’re aiming for seven to nine hours of sleep per night to stay focused and energized.
Seek supportive communities
You don’t have to go through college admission stress alone. Connecting with others who are experiencing similar challenges can be incredibly validating and helpful. Platforms like Reddit or Discord often have supportive communities to join for teens who are applying to college. Your high school most likely offers college prep workshops or peer study groups, which can help you feel less isolated as well. Find any way to share experiences with peers who understand what you’re going through—it can make a huge difference!
Related: 7 Great Stress Busters for a More Balanced Student Life
The journey of applying to college is a challenging yet rewarding process that marks the start of an exciting new chapter for you. While it’s natural to feel stressed, understanding common stressors and using effective strategies can help you navigate it with confidence.
Remember, you’re not alone. Seek support from your family, friends, teachers, and counselors, and take time to care for your mental health. Your path to college is just the beginning of many amazing opportunities ahead.
