Application Questions

Colleges and Universities A-Z Clemson University
1

I am in the process of applying. I have the Online stuff done (for the most part), but I have several questions about what I need to do.

I already sent in the ACT and AP scores from the respective testing services.

And I found the paper the counselor has to fill out. (The year on the sheet is 2010. Which is older than I would expect. Is this the correct sheet?)

I am confused about teacher recommendations. I found a paper that the teacher fills out, but how many of those do I need? And will a conventional letter of recommendation work for this purpose instead or can the teachers attach an additional sheet? It does not say much about teacher recommendations on the online checklist, so any information would be really helpful.

In addition, National Merit does not send out any sort of notifications until September (so I am told). My PSAT score is good, but I don’t know if I am a semifinalist. Should I wait to send in the application until I know about that? Or can I update the information once I know?

On the online application, is there a particular format that they want the list extracurricular activities, leadership, community service, special talents, work and other educationally enriching experiences to be in? (Like divided by grade level for example?)

And on the Candidate’s Comments section, I know that in many cases, this is used to explain why one’s GPA isn’t great or ACT score isn’t wonderful. But if there is not anything about my applications that needs explanation, should I still write something? There is a prompt, but I don’t think that any of the things that the prompt mentions really apply to my situation. But I would feel weird just not writing anything.

I know that’s a lot. Clemson is my #1 choice, so I really want to make the application as good as possible. Any answers would be greatly appreciated.

2

Hi. I would strongly encourage you to call the Admissions Office with your questions. How you are treated by the staff is one aspect of what life at Clemson will be like. Others have reported very favorable experiences in talking with the Admissions staff.

In general, the admissions process for the broader school is more grades/numbers oriented. The Honors College application would be the place to put more emphasis on extra curricular and personal insights.

Given you expect to be considered for National Merit, you will likely want to apply to the Calhoun Honors College. This is a separate application and I would suggest having the application and all support materials in by Dec. 1.

Good luck and Go Tigers!

3

Clemson doesn’t require the teacher recommendations unless you’re applying for Calhoun. I applied and didn’t see anything about a paper for my counselor, so I didn’t do anything with that, and I can’t answer you on that. I just listed all my extracurriculars in no specific format, but with the most important ones on top. You also don’t have a need to write candidate’s comments, so I wouldn’t do that if I were you.

4

Clemson will contact the counselor for the counselor’s form once your application is submitted.

5

So all I have to do is the online stuff, send in ACT score, and have my high school send the transcript?

6

You got it!! That’s all.