How to Apply to BYU

My intentions have always been to write down a simplified process of how and provide helpful information about BYU related things. I think this blogging forum has made me wordy. However, today I am going to tell you exactly how to apply to BYU.

BYU has made applying very easy. First go to www.BeSmart.com (this is the CES Admissions website) or go directly to admissions.byu.edu. You will begin the online application process by completing the following steps:

1. Go to BeSmart or BYU Admissions website
2. Select apply online
3. Review the Honor Code (read my previous post about the Honor Code)
4. Create or login using your NetID (write this down so you don't forget)
5. Carefully read the application instructions

You are doign great. Now that you are into the application, be sure to make note of the application deadlines and what parts you will need to submit. The application is dynamic--so after submitting part 1 and part 2 it will provide you with an accurate application status. Everything except for part 3, test scores and your transcripts can be turned in online. Even though most things can be turned in online, apply early.

For those of you who need step-by-step instructions, here is what is next:

1. Complete part 1 and part 2 of the application
   
2. Check the application status page to review all of the parts you need to submit before the deadline
3. Print off the part 3 and schedule appointments with your Bishop and Stake President (the part 3 will need to be postmarked before the deadline)
   
4. When applicable, print off the part 4 instructions and give them to your teacher or complete the online self report of seminary and institute attendance
5. When applicable, submit part 5
   
6. When applicable, submit part 6
7. When applicable, carefully write, proof read and submit part 7
8. Pay your application fee online using a credit card
9. Mail a copy of your ACT or SAT scores to BYU Admissions, A-41 ASB, Provo UT 84602 or request they be sent directly from the organization
10. Contact any school you have attended and request a transcript to be mail to BYU Admissions, A-41 ASB, Provo UT 84602 or hand deliver a copy to Student Services at D-155 of the ASB.
11. Check your application status to ensure BYU receives all of your application
12. Resubmit any application parts BYU does not receive
13. After you application is completed, patiently wait for a decision to be made (new freshman are notified after the deadline and transfer student application take 4-6 weeks to be notified)
14. Check your email and application status page for a decision to be posted
15. Read your admission notification letter carefully (all decision are to be considered final)
    

Here is a list of the application parts and what they are:

• Part 1: Student Information
• Part 2: School Selection/Scholarships
• Part 3: Confidential Report
• Part 4: Seminary/Institute Evaluation
• Part 5: High School Information including an Official Transcript
• Part 6: Extracurricular Activities
• Part 7: Student Essay & Other Information
• $30 non-refundable application fee per school
• American College Test (ACT) scores or Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores (not required at LDSBC unless home-schooled)
• Official transcripts from each college or university you are attending or have attended

After you have submitted all of your parts, your application status will change to complete. As soon as BYU makes a decision about your application, it will be posted online. There are no tricks to finding out early. As soon as it is posted, you can login and see it.


Tips for Applying

• Apply early (new freshman have a priority deadline)
• Go online to check your application status
• Read the application materials, instructions and emails from BYU
• Prepare
• Take the ACT more than once
• Get good grades (BYU is very competitive)
  
• Be active in your ward and church activities
• Graduate from seminary and attend institute