Description of the video:

[ video description: The IU logo appears on the middle of the screen. ]

[ video: “Application Tips” ]

[ video: Young man sits facing camera in computer lounge. ]

Jeric: Hey, everyone! My name is Jeric, and I’m a senior here at Indiana University. I remember just a few short years ago when I was in your shoes—approaching my senior year of high school and preparing to start on this next adventure in life, otherwise known as college.

I remember exactly how daunting this application process can be, so I’m here to give you a few tips on how to submit your application with confidence.

[ video: “Let’s get started.” ]

Jeric: Freshman applicants applying for the fall semester can apply using one of three different applications: the Indiana University eApplication, the Common Application, or the Coalition Application. The materials required for each application are the same. We do not prefer one application over another; however, it’s really important that you only complete one. If you complete more than one application, that may delay your decision.

[ video: “Application Tip #1: Choose your application.” ]

Jeric: IU strongly encourages students to apply as early as possible in the fall of their senior year. And remember, November first is our early action and scholarship deadline. That means in order to be considered for IU’s Academic Merit Scholarships, you must submit a complete application for admission—including official transcript, test scores, and essay—by November first. We also have a regular decision deadline of February first.

[ video: “Application Tip #2: Submit your complete application as soon as possible.” ]

Jeric: The next thing you need to know is what to send in to complete your application. You need to submit an application, which includes a non-refundable $60 fee, the IU-required essay, and your official high school transcript and test scores.

[ video: “Application Tip #3: Make sure you know what to send.” ]

Jeric: As I just mentioned, regardless of the application platform you choose, you’ll need to submit the IU-specific essay. That means you’ll need to upload and submit the essay when you submit the application.

[ video: “Application Tip #4: Make sure you know how to submit your essay.” ]

Jeric: The next tip is about the application essay. Your essay should be between 200 and 400 words. You’ll be asked to describe your academic and career plans and any special interests—such as undergraduate research, academic interests, or leadership opportunities you’re eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. You’ll also have the opportunity to address any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles you may have faced in pursuit of your education and how you were able to overcome them.

It’s important to put your best self forward with your essay. Think it through, brainstorm with family and friends, and talk to a college counselor. Write about your passions and open up about yourself. This essay should be uniquely you. And don’t forget, have someone proofread your essay to make sure there are no misspellings or typos. Also remember that your essay may be used for scholarship consideration.

[ video: “Application Tip #5: Write a strong essay using your own voice.” ]

Jeric: You’ll soon come to the question about what major interests you. If you are undecided about a specific major, mark exploratory. If you know what you want to major in, mark the major in the school or college in which that major is located. And remember, you will always have the opportunity to add additional majors or minors.

[ video: “Application Tip #6: If you’re undecided, mark “exploratory.’” ]

Jeric: Once you think you’re done filling out the application, review it again and again! Go back and check numbers in fields like your address, phone number, and date of birth. Thoroughly review these to make sure you didn’t put any numbers in the wrong order.

[ video: “Application Tip #7: Review your application details.” ]

Jeric: Now that you’ve submitted your online application, it’s time to complete your application process. To do this, you need to have your official high school transcript sent to IU, as well as your SAT and/or ACT scores. It’s important to remember, we’ll only consider official test scores sent directly from the testing agency.

[ video: “Application Tip #8: Send us your transcript and official test scores.” ]

Jeric: As you’re applying to IU, follow these simple application tips and you will be submitting the most competitive application possible. And if you ever have any questions, the IU Office of Admissions is here to help. I hope to see you all on campus soon and, as always, it’s a great day to be a Hoosier.

[ video: The IU logo appears with “admissions.indiana.edu” beneath it. ]