1. Misspellings and grammatical errors. This is a BIG pet peeve of admissions officers. It show you don't care because you didn't take the time to PROOFREAD.
2. Applying online, but the application isn't submitted. If you apply online, you should receive a CONFIRMATION that the college received it. If not, then, follow through.
3. Forgotten signatures. Make sure you sign and date the application form, checking ALL PARTS of the form to verify.
4. Not reading carefully. This should go without saying, but, unfortunately, the BIGGEST MISTAKE most students make, is simply NOT READING.
5. Listing extracurricular activities that aren't. Extracurricular activities would include sports, arts, formal organizations, and volunteer work. Always check, also, to make sure that your activity information is accurate. Colleges DO CHECK to verify this info.
6. Not telling your school counselor where you've applied. It helps to let your counselor know, and, I want to add, GIVE THE ADDRESS TO THE COLLEGE THAT YOU WANT YOUR TRANSCRIPT SENT TO! Don't assume that I know every college's address, or that I have the time to stop and look it up.
7. Writing illegibly. First impressions do count. TAKE YOUR TIME filling out the application, especially if you are turning in a paper app.
8. Using an email address that friends might laugh about, but colleges won't.
Select a professional email address. Keep your fun address for friends only.
9. Not checking your email regularly. If you've given your email address, remember the college will use it to send you updates and to contact you regarding any questions they may need you to answer. So, check constantly!
10. Letting Mom/Dad help you fill out your application. Admissions people can tell if your parents help, or whether you have two different styles of writing. This is especially vital when it comes to essays that you need to submit.
Hope all this helps...Remember, your application is, basically, your RESUME to college, so treat it as such!