You are getting ready for your future in higher education and you start off as most young people do: by taking your SAT’s. The test is long and difficult, but it is worth it because you will get an 1800 on your first try; the highest score out of all your friends. This is awesome, though not unexpected, considering it complements your super high GPA.

With this score you have assured yourself that you will get into any college you wish to attend. Of course, when you apply you are still a little nervous though, but not the nervous that hinders you from accomplishing your goals. No, this is the kind of nervous that lets you know this is serious, which only makes your application that much stronger and passionate.

Before you know it, one-by-one your acceptance letters come to you. You didn’t get into all of your schools but you’re happy with the ones you did get into, and on May 1st, you’re all set and know exactly where you will be spending the next four years of your post-secondary career. Nothing can stop you now. You have done just as you have expected.

If only things really happened this way.

The reality of the situation is, sometimes, your SAT or ACT scores are not the greatest. You may have to take the test twice or even three times before you are truly satisfied with your scores, and even then you may not be truly satisfied. This is natural. It is quite an amazing feeling to do exceptionally well on these standardized tests, but even if you do not, there are other things that can make you stand out other than test scores.

Of course, this does not mean slack off and perform poorly. What it means is that you should just do your best and work on the areas that have room for improvement.

May 1st is the ideal date to know exactly where you are going to college, but that may not always be the case. Many schools, especially rolling admissions schools, may not get back to you until after May 1st or even toward the end of May. It is completely okay to not have a final decision when everyone else does. Do not base your acceptance process on other peoples’ experience because everyone’s is different.

Lastly, it is unfortunate to say, but there are a number of factors that might stop you from going to the school of your dreams. Whether it is grades, money, or some other factor that is out of your control, don’t fret! There are many schools out there that will gladly take your money and – honestly – provide you with a strong education. Speaking of money, it is okay to take a different route like going to community college with the intention of transferring later when your financial situation is more stable.

The last thing you want is to graduate with substantial debt, and have no concrete way to pay for it. Believe it or not, you won’t be making six figures straight out of college.

Whatever you decide to do and whatever school you decide to attend, just be proud and stand by your decision. The whole college application experience can be stressful, but if you keep calm, it will be rewarding in the end.