December can feel like a month of mixed priorities: final projects, holiday plans, and ongoing university applications all compete for attention, but staying organized now will help you enter the new year with clarity and confidence. At Options Solutions, our educational consultants recommend focusing on these five key tasks in December:
1. Modify your university list based on mid-semester grades
By December, you’ll have a clearer sense of your academic standing. Use your mid-semester marks to reassess your university list, especially if certain programs have competitive cut-offs or recommended averages. If you need help evaluating your chances or identifying alternatives, our consultants can guide you through the process.
2. Log in weekly to all university accounts
Applicant portals become especially important this time of year. Log in at least once a week to review updates, upload documents, and confirm that all required materials have been received. These portals are often the first place universities communicate next steps, so staying on top of them helps avoid surprises.
3. Continue with supplemental application components
Even as the term wraps up, supplemental materials like essays, video interviews, and portfolios continue to require time and attention. Keep moving steadily through your drafts, revisions, and recordings. Working on these in early December will help free up your holiday break, so you can take a well-deserved rest.
4. Watch for updates via email and monitor to-do lists
December is a key month for new messages from admissions offices. Some universities will request documents, share instructions, or provide important reminders. Check your email regularly (including your junk folder) and keep track of any new to-dos. If you’re unsure how to interpret an update, our team can help clarify what’s required.
5. Attend university information sessions
Many universities continue to host virtual information sessions through December. These events offer insights into programs, admissions processes, scholarships, and student life. Attending can help you confirm your choices or refine your list heading into the new year. Check out this month’s events here!
December is about staying proactive, keeping applications moving, monitoring updates closely, and making informed adjustments. And remember, the Options Solutions team is here to support you at every stage.
