Use the Apply Texas application for Texas A&M (here's why)

August 1 rolled into town, and application season is officially underway. While most schools have standard Early Action, Early Decision, or Rolling Decision, others have more urgency built into the equation. Texas A&M is a prime example, and it's because they operate on a "first qualified, first served" basis, or so it appears, despite the December 1 deadline for Regular Admission. If a rising senior has A&M among their top choices, then they need to prioritize submitting this application first — even if it's not their primary interest — based on A&M's reading/timing. Submit to A&M by mid-late August at the latest!

Texas A&M joined the Common App last year, and it's been a terrific addition. Many A&M applicants also apply to other Common App schools, so it's convenient to go to one-stop for most, if not all, of a student's applications. HOWEVER, there is one hiccup for applicants choosing Common App for their A&M application:

You must submit the scholarship application along with the main application. They cannot be submitted separately for Texas A&M on the Common App. 

This is not an issue for those using Apply Texas. A&M applicants are able to submit their main application separately, and in doing so, it allows the applicant more time to write the five scholarship essay statements, one of which is up to 550 words (see below). Remember, the urgency for A&M is the main application; the scholarship application does not have the same distinction. 

FYI, A&M's scholarship essays are listed below:

1. Describe an example of your leadership. Be sure to describe your actions and the actions of those around you and to explain what you accomplished. (550 words or less)

2. What are some of your life’s goals and objectives? (50 words or less)

3. Briefly describe any educational plans you have beyond earning your bachelor’s degree. (50 words or less)

4. Why have you chosen your academic major(s)? (50 words or less)

5. Why have you chosen to apply to Texas A&M University? (50 words or less)

I work with dozens of prospective Aggies every year from several local area schools, so I know the process for A&M backward and forward. One of my clients recently dubbed me as the “Aggie Whisperer,” which I think is hilarious! Otherwise, my application suggestion is one of the nuances that might help streamline the process in an oddly stressful navigation timeframe. It's worthwhile for applicants to spend 15-30 minutes setting up a profile on Apply Texas if it buys more time for scholarship essay preparation and to ease the immediate and stressful burden. 

Contact me if you'd like some help. Next up, I'll have more updates about the SRAR!