Applying to college is daunting task. If you’re an only child or the eldest in your family, it’s an unknown process constructed by trial and error (which in itself is stressful). So many choices, but so little time—or so it seems.

I’m a procrastinator. I saved everything from my SATs to my college essays for the last minute. Hopefully, you aren’t like me and you have (at least some of) your life figured out. Here are some tips that will lessen the burden of your college application process.

• DO RESEARCH. THIS IS IMPORTANT. Visit colleges or do virtual tours. Find some important traits that you need in your future college.
• Work on your essay. Edit it to perfection (in whatever form that may be). Have someone—a parent, teacher, friend—proofread it for you.
• Research your colleges’ supplements and get them done in advance. Follow the above step.
• Make sure your Naviance account is functioning properly. Write down your password somewhere you’ll remember.
• Ask your junior or senior year teachers for recommendation letters. Be sure to talk to them in person, and then add them on Naviance under “Colleges I’m Applying To.” Check every so often to see that the letter is in progress or done. Reconfirm.
• Create a Common App account with a password you will remember and the email address you used for Naviance.
• Fill out the Common App or the application provided by your school, if it’s non-Common App. If you have questions, ask your guidance counselor. It’s worth the lost lunch period.
• Get your FERPA signed. Hand that brag sheet in. Actually contact your guidance counselor. Fill out those transcript releases.
• Send out your test scores. Make sure they’re what your college requires.
• BE AWARE OF THESE IMPORTANT DATES: November 1 for Early Decision/Early Action, January 1 for Regular Decision, etc.
• Submit your application. You’ve done it.
• Remember your college does not define you. It’s really only a small part of your life!