Tips for First-Year Applicants

A female student studying in the Bollier Center. The student is sitting on a gray seat leaned over a laptop and a notebook. She is writing on the notebook with a black pen. She is wearing a grey long-sleeve sweatshirt with a blue logo. She is also wearing black leggings with white socks. Her hair is in a ponytail and she looks calm and is smiling slightly.
A student studying indoors.
September 25, 2023
Alexa Gaske, Assistant Director of Admission

The college application process can sometimes seem overwhelming, leading to stress and maybe a bit of anxiety. It is our job as admission counselors to reduce that stress and make the process as simple as possible! 

As you are working on your application, here are some tips to help guide you through the admission process:

 

1. Stay organized!

With so many colleges and universities out there, it can be complicated to keep track of deadlines, essay prompts, and more! Keep a file on your laptop or keep a calendar with dates and other important information for the schools you are applying to. Remember, Gonzaga’s first-year deadline is December 1! 

2. Communicate with your teachers and counselors about what schools you are applying to and when their deadlines are!

Gonzaga requires at least one teacher recommendation from an academic subject. However, you are welcome to submit additional letters of recommendation if you’d like!

3. Take the time to review your application!

Make sure to review your application at least twice (and not just the essay)! We read the application in its entirety so look out for any typos or grammar mistakes throughout.

4. Your application should be about you!

We want to learn about your interests, experiences, and goals. Make sure to use your voice to share all the amazing skills and talents you offer. Please also advocate for yourself – we want to hear your story! We recognize that various challenges can have an impact on your academics and/or extracurriculars. Please make note of anything that may help us understand your story better.

5. Don’t forget about scholarships and financial aid!

Gonzaga’s additional scholarships deadline is January 1 – that’s BEFORE you receive your admission decision. Documentation for need-based aid should be submitted by December 1; that could be the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA), or Gonzaga’s Needs Analysis Form. These deadlines and creating well-crafted scholarship applications are important too! 

6. Ask questions!

Our admission counselors are here to be a resource for you and support you throughout the admission process. Please feel free to send an email or pick up the phone. We are ready to help in any way we can!

 

Have questions or concerns as you're navigating the application process? Contact the Office of Undergraduate Admission.
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