<p>this actually is a dilemma for me (i know its lame haha), but i really dont know which colleges would prefer. i was thinking about applying online and mailing my recs, supplements, but then i heard horror stories about how websites crash during the last few weeks or the app turns out blank when colleges get it. on the other hand, it might get lost in the mail or something. what's the best route to take? thanks.</p>
<p>i think they all prefer online</p>
<p>online</p>
<p>dont forget to save a copy of the application on ur computer before u hit send.</p>
<p>and dont feel the need to wait until 11:59 the day its due to hit send.. that will help make sure that if the system crashes that urs makes it there safely</p>
<p>good luck!</p>
<p>They prefer online because it is easier for paperwork. But honestly, the people making the decisions aren't going to know how you submitted it. They get sanitized information that comes from low level workers in the admissions office. So, it doesn't really matter. Some colleges waive the application fee if you apply online, so that is one advantage.</p>
<p>^^^ interesting point
never thought of it like that</p>
<p>apply online. they waive the fee online for a reason.</p>
<p>what schools waive online payment?</p>
<p>^colgate is one that I know of</p>
<p>A lot of colleges scan the stuff you send in the mail in order to create a digital version of your application. Save them the hassle and just complete the online application.</p>
<p>apply online, but make sure you submit ur application way before deadline.</p>
<p>If you apply online, you also don't run the risk of USPS losing your mail. </p>
<p>Also, it's also much easier for forms and things because digital versions are generally more easily read (and preferred) by the admission offices.</p>
<p>Furthermore, you don't have to mail checks for your admission fee. Just pay by credit card.</p>
<p>There will be stuff that you will have to send in through mail though, like recommendations, transcript, and any other supplemental information you may have. But if that gets lost, at least they have your main form.</p>
<p>Also, college servers don't crash THAT often. Just start a few days in advance and don't wait for the absolute last minute! =p</p>
<p>ONLINE! its so much easier. just finished college admissions this year and everytime i had to mail transcripts it was so annoying cause sometimes it would get lost in the mail or in the bustling admissions office. I just could not have pictured mailing applications as well.</p>
<p>Though, to be fair, applying by paper allows applicants to provide extra materials that the common app doesn't allow.</p>
<p>Can you still view decisions online if you applied by mail?</p>
<p>I made the mistake of doing some of my applications on paper...and one of them got lost in the mail. Luckily, I sent it way ahead of time so I was able to just re-mail it. But I would definitely suggest doing it online.</p>