<p>This debate has raged for quite a few years now. And I think the arguments are quite strong for online apps.</p>
<p>Consider the following:</p>
<ul>
<li><p>on line apps are less likely to get lost or misfiled. Yes, this stuff happens. Just watch these boards in January and see the screams about missing materials that parents know was sent but colleges did not receive. The less paper the better for them.</p></li>
<li><p>they don't ask for them for 'nuthin.</p></li>
<li><p>you, as a parent can confirm receipt with your kid.</p></li>
</ul>
<p>You may want to note that many schools are now scanning all materials anyway. Makes it easier for admissions staffers.</p>
<p>While some online apps may be format limiting, consider that the colleges just may know what they're doing. i.e. if they limit your choices and space for extra curriculars, maybe they don't really consider them for admissions!</p>
<p>One big word of advice: DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST DAY, ESPECIALLY THE LAST HOUR. Servers get overloaded and crash. The same goes for FAFSA, by the way.</p>
<p>Little known factiod is that ETS sends most scores electronically. Makes you wonder why they charge at all for those score reports.</p>