April. The air feels a little different, doesn’t it? For high school seniors, it’s a month buzzing with anticipation, as well as anxiety, as College Admission Decision Day looms on May 1st. If you’re feeling the weight of those admission offers right now, know that you are in great company!

The stress of your pending admission decision

This time of year feels like a pressure cooker. You’ve poured your heart and soul into applications, waited patiently and then impatiently for your admission offers, and now you’re faced with a monumental choice – which college offer to accept. As we discussed in our recent post about making your college admission decision, there’s a lot to consider.

Managing disappointment

Maybe that dream school didn’t pan out the way you hoped. It’s okay to feel that disappointment; it’s a natural part of the process. Allow yourself that moment, but don’t let it overshadow the other fantastic opportunities that have come your way. It often turns out that students end up exactly where they are meant to be. And I do mean that truly. While you may wish you got into your first choice school, the other colleges that accepted you have so much to offer. First of all, they want you. That’s huge in and of itself. And each school offers its own unique opportunities to learn, grow, and engage. And you recognized the positives of each campus when you made your college short list. So let go of what can’t happen, and move on to what can. And besides – it’s time to reframe what a dream school is anyway. A dream school isn’t an elite school; a dream school is one that you can afford, and that offers you the kinds of opportunities you need to get started on your future career path.

Financial realities

The excitement of an acceptance letter can quickly be tempered by the reality of college costs. Perhaps the financial aid or scholarship package wasn’t what you anticipated from the school you were leaning towards. This can add a significant layer of stress as you try to make a financially sound decision. Remember, you’re not alone in navigating this. We even have some strategies on how to negotiate college tuition that might be helpful. And be sure to prioritize applying for scholarships! You can apply for scholarships year-round on the ScholarshipOwl platform, making a significant dent in your out of pocket costs. And of course, you can contribute to your education by working full-time during the summer, and part-time during the school year.

Family expectations

Maybe the school you’re drawn to isn’t your family’s top pick. This can happen for a variety of reasons – affordability concerns, wanting you to stay closer to home versus venturing further away, different academic priorities, or even differing views on the political or social climate of a college or its location. These conversations can be tough, adding emotional strain to an already complex decision.

Political and social issues

And let’s not forget the bigger picture. In 2025, there’s a lot happening in the world, and it’s understandable that broader political and social issues are weighing on your mind as you make this significant life choice. Concerns about federal executive orders or pending legislation impacting higher education are real and can cause some students to second-guess their decisions or even reconsider their chosen major. It’s a testament to your awareness and engagement with the world around you. As our recent research highlighted, belonging and inclusivity are important factors for Gen Z students in higher education, and these considerations can definitely influence your choices.

Preparing for high school to come to a close

On top of all this, let’s be real – you’re still seniors in high school! You’re juggling final exams, trying to keep those grades up, navigating the excitement of prom, looking forward to senior activities and graduation, maybe even dreaming of that senior trip and the prospect of moving out on your own. It’s a whirlwind of emotions and responsibilities!

How to manage your stress

So, what can you do to dial down the stress during this intense time? Here are some strategies to help you navigate these April pressures and approach May 1st with a clearer mind:

Step outside and breathe

Spending time in the fresh air can do wonders for your mental well-being. Go for a walk in a park, sit in your backyard and read a book (a real paper one, away from screens!), or simply take a few deep breaths outside. Even a short dose of nature can help clear your head.

Get moving

Exercise is a fantastic stress reliever. Whether it’s hitting the gym with friends, going for a walk or jog, trying a yoga class, or even fun activities like rollerblading, ice skating, or going for a hike, physical activity releases endorphins that have mood-boosting effects.

Connect in person, disconnect from screens and devices

Make a conscious effort to spend quality time face-to-face with friends and family. Put down your phones and really engage with the people around you. Laughter and genuine connection can be incredibly grounding and a welcome distraction from the digital world.

Fuel your body well

What you eat can impact your stress levels. Focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Try to limit processed foods, excessive sugar, and caffeine, which can sometimes exacerbate anxiety. Think of it as fueling your body for this important decision-making marathon.

Prioritize sleep

Getting enough quality sleep is crucial for managing stress. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Refrain from laying in bed and doom-scrolling on your phone, which delays sleep and can actually contribute to stress and anxiety. If the thought of not being on your phone is stressful too, try to mitigate that by telling your friends know you are choosing to mute notifications when you go to bed, and that you’ll be charging your phone in another room. Let them know that you’re looking forward to responding to their messages the next day.

Find your calm

Explore practices like meditation, affirmations, or positive thinking. There are many free apps and online resources that can guide you through simple meditation exercises. Start your day with a positive affirmation or take a few moments throughout the day to focus on things you’re grateful for.

Talk it out

Reach out to a therapist or your school counselor. They are trained professionals who can provide you with coping strategies and a safe space to process your feelings. Sharing your worries can often make them feel less overwhelming.

Lean on your support system

Let your family and close friends know how you’re feeling. Open communication can help them understand what you’re going through and provide the support you need. Sometimes just knowing they’re there for you can make a big difference. You can also share your thoughts in the ScholarshipOwl community on Discord. You’ll find that so many other students are experiencing similar thoughts and feelings. They may have ideas and stress-reducing strategies they can share, or at the very least, you’ll be able to commiserate with students just like you, which is a stress relief in itself.

Take things one step at a time

Remember – you’re in the midst of a significant chapter in your life, and it’s okay to feel the pressure. Be kind to yourself, prioritize your well-being, and take things one step at a time. You’ve come so far, and you have the strength and resilience to navigate this decision. Trust yourself, and know that whatever choice you make will be the right one for you!