You hit submit. You take a breath. Then you check your email—even though it’s only been about 30 seconds.
Submitting your college application is a big step, but you still have a few things to keep track of while you wait for a decision. Your first move: watch for a confirmation email and instructions for accessing your applicant portal.
Here’s what to do next.
1. Set up your applicant portal
Your applicant portal is where you can check your application status, see whether materials are missing, and find updates from the college. It will often also show your admission decision and financial aid information once they’re available. Each college handles things a little differently, so read the instructions in your confirmation email carefully.
Once you have access:
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Save your login information somewhere you can find it again.
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Review your application checklist to see what the college has received.
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Check your contact information so important updates reach you.
Haven’t received instructions? Check your spam or junk folder, then contact Admissions if you still can’t find them.
2. Check for missing materials
Submitting your application doesn’t always mean your file is ready for review. A college may still need your official high school transcript or other required documents. Your portal’s checklist can show you what’s missing, but how you submit those items may depend on the college and the application you used.
At Siena, your official high school transcript must be sent by your high school guidance counselor. Check with your counselor to make sure it has been submitted.
Have additional materials you’d like us to consider, such as an optional essay or test scores? If you applied through the Siena Express App, email them to admissions@siena.edu. If you applied through the Common App, check which materials were included with your application and contact Admissions if you need help submitting anything additional.
If something is marked missing:
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Read the college’s instructions for that item.
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Follow up with the person responsible for sending it.
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Ask Admissions if you’re unsure what’s needed or how to submit it.
Materials may take time to appear after they arrive. Before requesting that something be sent again, check for any processing guidance from the college.
3. Keep an eye on your email
Your portal matters, but so does your inbox. Colleges may email you with requests for information, reminders, event invitations, or instructions for viewing your decision.
Use an email address you check regularly, and keep checking your spam folder. If Admissions asks you for something, read the message carefully and respond by the deadline.
You don’t need to refresh your inbox all day. Building a regular habit of checking your email and portal can help you stay on top of updates.
4. Stay connected with Admissions
You don’t have to wait until you’re admitted to ask a question. Your admissions counselor can help you understand next steps, clarify a missing item, or connect you with someone who can answer questions about your interests.
Keep exploring while your application is under review, too. Visit campus, attend an information session, or talk with current students. Think about what you still want to learn: Can you picture yourself there? Does the college offer the opportunities and support you’re looking for?
At Siena, we want you to feel comfortable reaching out throughout your college search—including after you apply.
5. Keep track of other deadlines
Your admission application is one part of the process. Financial aid, scholarships, and certain programs may have separate requirements or deadlines.
Keep a simple list or calendar for each college so you know what’s coming up. Continue giving your senior-year classes your attention—submitting your application doesn’t mean your schoolwork is finished.
You've taken a big step. congratulations!
You’ve taken a big step. Now, focus on what you can control: check your portal, follow up on missing materials, and ask questions when you need help. Siena’s Admissions team is here to help you navigate what comes next.
