<p>My S found that the online app for one of his schools didn't give him enough flexibility to describe his courses or indicate that some are AP courses (he had to choose from a drop-down menu). This is a school that makes preliminary decisions based on self-reported coursework and grades, so it's important that he be able to name his courses accurately.</p>
<p>This is a good time to contact the admissions office by phone or e-mail. He had several questions, so he called. So he accomplished two things: had a nice, cordial conversation with an admissions officer, and reassured himself that it really is okay to do the paper app. His biggest fear was his messy handwriting, but he worked that out. For all other schools, he's doing online and it's working just fine.</p>
<p>When they work, and of course when they're required or "recommended," online applications are the way to go--and someday they'll be the only option. But while some schools are working out the glitches, paper is okay.</p>
<p>But P.S.: Kids who don't have computers in their homes are at a disadvantage.</p>