So you've scoped out your options after high school graduation, and you've decided to apply to college. Congratulations! Now all you need to do is fill out those pesky applications and make sure you have everything you need to get accepted. Here are some handy tips for applying to college.

• Complete test scores. Normally, before students start narrowing down which schools they'd like to attend, they take the required tests-the ACT, the SAT, or both. A good time to sign up for these is the second semester of junior year, the summer before senior year, or the first semester of senior year. Allow for plenty of time (up to two months) to receive your test scores in the mail. Many schools offer preparatory classes to help you study and learn the fundamentals of each test.
• Decide where you'll apply. Make a list of all the schools you wish to attend. Next to each school, make a note of the application deadline. You want to make sure to apply in advance, well ahead of the deadline, in case you accidentally miss an application material and need to send it later.
• Fill out applications. Each school's website will have an admissions section where you can either fill out an application online or print one out to mail in. Fill out each application carefully, making sure nothing is misspelled or incorrect. Many applications ask about extra-curricular activities, so it's a good idea to keep a journal throughout high school of your activities. Community service is also a good activity to add to college applications. Since many colleges require a written essay, be sure to allow for at least a week for writing, editing, and reviewing. Have at least two people edit your essay, preferably teachers, counselors, or people familiar with college essay writing.
• Send in your test scores and transcripts. You can request that your testing agency (for the ACT or SAT) send your scores to specific colleges. You also need to request your transcripts to be sent from your high school.

The above tips will help you complete the basics for applying to college. However, some schools require more than others (i.e. extra essays for financial aid, letters of recommendation, and subject-based standardized tests). The best route to take is to start early, make a list of each school's requirements, and consult frequently with a college counselor.