College Go Week

For high school seniors, college applications can feel overwhelming. Where should you start? What forms do you need to fill out? How do you know if you’re doing everything right? The good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out at once.

College Go Week is happening September 21–25, 2026, and is part of the Learn More Indiana’s annual college go initiative. College applications run from August through November and provide Indiana students with information and resources to explore education, training, and opportunities after they graduate high school. College Go Week is supposed to encourage students who may not want to go to college, to apply. The goal is to help high school seniors navigate the admissions process and make sure every student submits at least one college application.

How do you apply?

Step 1: Make Your College List

Begin by thinking about what you want in college. Consider the location, size, majors offered, activities, campus life and cost. Research several schools, close and far, as well as make a list of the colleges you are interested in applying to.

Step 2: Check the Requirements

Every college can have different requirements to be able to apply. Look up and research each college’s website to find out what you need in order to submit an application. This could include your high school transcript, an application, essays, letters of recommendation or test scores.

Step 3: Create Your Application

Many colleges accept applications through online systems such as the Common Application, while others have their own applications. You will create an account and carefully enter your personal and academic information. Take your time and double-check all the important details, such as your name, address, graduation date and courses.

Step 4: Write Your Essay

Some colleges require an essay or personal statement. This is your chance to tell the admissions office something about yourself that your grades and activities might not demonstrate. Choose a topic that allows your personality, experiences and goals to shine. 

Step 5: Ask for Recommendations/Transcripts

If your college requires letters of recommendation, ask teachers, counselors or any adult to write you a recommendation. You will also need to ask your high school to send your official transcript.

Step 6: Look for Application Fee Waivers

 One of the biggest reasons to pay attention during College Go Week is that many Indiana colleges and universities participate by waiving application fees for a week long. That means eligible students may be able to apply without paying an application fee. Check with your school counselor and the colleges you’re interested in to learn about their specific fee-waiver opportunities.

Step 7: Review and Submit!

Before you hit submit, proofread everything. Make sure required sections are complete and that any additional documents have been submitted. Then you will be ready to submit your application! College Go Week is a great reminder that college is a process. Start researching, asking questions, and using the resources available at your school. Seniors, remember you don’t have to have everything figured out right now. You just have to take the next step, and everything will sort itself out.