Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Search for the various deadlines for applications to a public university to ensure your credentials are reviewed. Public universities utilize separate deadlines for transfer students, freshmen and graduate students to help organize the review process.
Step2
Assist admissions officials with their decision about your application by indicating interest in a major. Some universities allow applicants to indicate a general academic division, which helps manage the number of accepted applications for each program.
Step3
Start speaking with past teachers and employers about recommendation letters months before you apply to a public university. You should provide forms to a letter writer as well as an envelope with the university's address after she agrees to write a letter on your behalf.
Step4
Gather application materials specific to a department you are interested in working with. You can locate department-specific scholarships and fellowships before you apply for admission to complete everything in one effort.
Step5
Build up a small fund for the fees you will need to pay while you apply to a public university. The application fees for multiple universities are compounded when you begin to request transcripts and other materials from past schools.
Step6
Request sufficient copies of official test scores that are necessary to complete your application. Public universities request SAT and ACT scores to determine whether applicants meet the basic benchmarks for admission. You need an official copy from the testing organization sent to the university in a sealed envelope.
Step7
Look at other universities in a state's public university system while you fill out your application. You should maintain a file of application materials and contacts at your current public university to make the transfer process easier in the future.
Step8
Speak with admissions counselors and other staff members at a public university throughout the deliberation process. Your desire to gain admission along with an adequate portfolio of educational experiences can put you ahead of fellow applicants.
