Application Tips & Suggestions

1. Visit campus. Visiting the campus and participating in Texas A&M programs demonstrates an interest and commitment to the University. Examples of academic association include official visits to campus such as attending Aggieland Saturday, meeting with a Texas A&M University admissions counselor, visiting any Prospective Student Center, attending a Texas A&M University application workshop or participating in a University sponsored program such as SLOT, SEAL, ExCEL, etc. Students should provide this information in their application through the electronic application dynamic questions or include them in Essay C.
2. Consider course work. It is recommended that students go above and beyond the minimum required and recommended course work during their high school careers. See the MINIMUM REQUIRED COURSE WORK section of this folder for a list of these course areas.
3. Begin filling out the application early (before December 1). The student should take their time so that they paint a complete picture of their high school academics and activities. We recommend that their application be submitted first, followed by the other required credentials.
4. Include all activities. Part II of the application, which asks the student to detail their extracurricular activities, is very important. A running list of leadership positions, community service, awards and employment, both school and non-school related activities should be kept. Time commitment and duration of involvement in each activity should be included. If there is not adequate space on the application for the student’s activities, they may submit additional pages in a similar format. Their full name and date of birth should be included on all pages.
5. Prepare essays. Students are required to complete Essays A and B. For students that fall into the review category, Essay C is strongly recommended. Time should be spent thinking creatively and writing notes about goals, talents, achievements and any challenges they may have overcome.
6. Collect letters of recommendation. These documents are entirely optional as rarely do they have a significant impact on the admission decision. The best letters of recommendation provide information that distinguishes a student from their peers and gives new insight into the student's accomplishments rather than simply restating activites and honors already provided on the application. No more than two letters of recommendation should be submitted. The student's full name and date of birth should be included on each letter.
7. Print the Document ID Sheet. Included in the Apply Texas Application is a Document ID sheet which the student should print and attach to all credentials submitted by mail.
8. Submit the application. Before a student sends their application, they should make a copy for their records. We recommend that they apply online. If they choose to submit a paper application, students need to sign and date their application and mail all their credentials well in advance of the closing date to ensure they arrive on time.