When it comes to college applications, a second set of eyes and a third round of proofing is essential.

Because few applicants ever meet the people who are evaluating them, their paper trail speaks volumes about who they are. Their attention to detail on the application represents just how seriously they are taking the college admissions process.

Here are some of the most common mistakes students make on their applications:

• Failing to understand what's involved in the application process and missing deadlines. Application deadlines vary from school to school and there are Early Action, Early Decision, Restricted Early Action, Rolling Admissions and Regular Decision. Know what you're applying for and when materials are due. Watch for financial aid, scholarship and state and federal financial aid deadlines.

• Failing to change the name of the college in the essay. Colleges understand that students frequently use the same essay for multiple colleges. If schools offer an essay topic of choice, it just makes sense. However, if you use a college's name in the essay, make sure to make the appropriate adjustments.

• Failing to notify guidance counselors when applying to colleges online. The Common Application (www.commonapp.org) now manages the application process for 391 colleges and universities. It's very easy to simply point and click and add another college to your list.

Unfortunately, many students submit online applications and forget to inform their counselors. Most colleges request a high school transcript, a counselor recommendation and teacher recommendations. If those are not submitted, the application will not be considered complete.

• Failing to give recommenders sufficient time to prepare letters of recommendation. High school seniors love to procrastinate and will frequently wait until it's too late to ask teachers, coaches and employers to write their letters of recommendation. I suggest giving two or three weeks lead time before the application deadline. When students ask late, there is a good chance that their favorite teacher may already be overbooked and won't be able to write their letter on time.

• Failing to limit parents' involvement. Sometimes parents see their children overwhelmed and want to help. Everyone needs to remember who is applying to go to college; the student must be empowered. If students are not getting their work done on their own, they may not be ready to take the big leap to college.

When parents get involved, it can actually end up hindering their children. If they are perceived as too aggressive, as in "we are writing our essay about our Eagle Scout project" that spells trouble to the college.

• Get organized, follow directions and proof everything prior to submission.

Lee Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte, N.C. For more information, visit www.collegeadmissionsstrategies.com.