How to Stay on Track

College essays aren’t written overnight. The best ones take time—not just to draft, but to reflect, revise, and grow into your voice. That’s why starting early and staying organized matters just as much as what you write.

This guide will help you plan your essay process step by step—from choosing topics to hitting deadlines with less stress. Whether you’re working on UC PIQs, the Common App, or school supplements, we’ll help you manage the big picture without getting overwhelmed.

When to Start

The essay process often begins earlier than students expect. Use this general timeline below as a guide.

TIP! Starting early gives you time to revise thoughtfully—and reduces the stress of last-minute writing.

  • June - July

    Brainstorm PIQs and your Common App personal statement

  • August

    Draft main essays and start revising

  • September

    Write school-specific supplements

  • October

    Get feedback from teachers or mentors

  • November

     Finalize UC and CSU apps (due Nov 30)

  • December

    Submit private school apps (most due Jan 1–15)

Tools to Help You Stay Organized

The right tools make the process manageable. That’s why the Onward Scholars Program created a tracker to help you stay on top of everything.

Not all colleges require letters of recommendation, but when they do, it’s a powerful way to show who you are beyond your GPA or test scores. Make your own copy of the tracker so you can adapt it to your process.

Use this customizable tracker to:
✔ Track which essays you need for each school
✔ Brainstorm and outline topics
✔ Monitor word counts and drafts
✔ Set deadlines and revision goals

Tips for Managing the Process

✔ Break the work into smaller chunks—brainstorm, outline, then write

✔ Don’t aim for perfection right away—revision is part of the process

✔ Ask someone you trust (teacher, counselor, mentor) for feedback

✔ Keep your own voice at the center—only you can tell your story

✔ Build in breaks—pacing yourself helps you think more clearly 

Extra Tools and Inspiration

Want more perspectives and examples? Here are additional tools and resources to guide you:

Early Decision/Early Action Application Information And Resources

Early Decision and Early Action

What to Know About Restrictive Early Action

*OSP students - ask your Program Director for other opportunities that might have open applications. 

Fly In Program
Opportunities to visit campuses, experience student life, and learn more about colleges—often fully funded.
Fly In Opportunities

Next Up: College Applications

Once your essays are drafted and organized, it’s time to complete your applications. Learn how to navigate UC, CSU, and the Common App step by step.