Gen Z Is Overwhelmed—Here’s How to Actually Motivate Them to Finish Their Apps

Every spring, high school seniors find themselves drowning in deadlines. College applications, final projects, graduation prep—it’s a lot. And while admissions teams are laser-focused on getting those incomplete applications across the finish line, the way most colleges communicate might be working against them.

The typical approach? Urgency.

📢 “Deadline approaching! Finish your application now!”

📢 “Only a few days left—don’t miss out!”

It makes sense. You need to push students to complete their apps.

But here’s the problem: for today’s high school seniors—especially Gen Z—urgency often triggers anxiety, not action.

The Anxiety Factor: Why “ASAP” Isn’t Always Motivating

Gen Z is the most anxious generation on record. Studies from the American Psychological Association (APA) show that academic pressure, future uncertainty, and societal challenges are all piling up on this group. And when students feel overwhelmed? They shut down.

A well-intended “Last chance!” email might not light a fire under them—it might make them avoid their inbox altogether.

So what if colleges flipped the script? What if, instead of amplifying stress, institutions focused on encouragement and momentum?

Here’s how.

Motivating Incomplete Applicants with Empathy

1️⃣ Reframe Urgency: Focus on Progress, Not Pressure

🚫 “Your application is still incomplete.”

✅ “You’re so close! Just one final step to go.”

This small shift can be the difference between panic and progress. Instead of making students feel like they’re failing to keep up, show them how much they’ve already accomplished.

Example:

✉️ Subject: Your Future is Waiting—One Last Step!

“You’ve already done the hard part—choosing a college and starting your application. Now, let’s make it official! Just submit [missing item] and you’re all set.”

2️⃣ Send a Voice Memo for a Personal Touch

Most students don’t pick up unknown calls. And long emails? Ignored. But a short, friendly voice memo from an admissions counselor or faculty member? That feels personal.

📲 “Hey [Name], just wanted to say you’re so close to finishing your application! If you need help with anything, I’m here. Let’s get you across the finish line!”

Hearing an actual voice can humanize the process and make students feel seen—without the pressure of a live phone call.

3️⃣ Leverage Peer Support: Make It Relatable

Students are more likely to take action when they hear from someone who’s been in their shoes. A quick text or email from a current student can be the nudge they need.

💬 Example Text from a Current Student:

"Hey [Name], I remember how overwhelming senior year felt. But finishing my application to [College] was one of the best decisions I made! You’re almost there. LMK if you have questions!”

This feels real—not like another email from admissions. And authenticity drives action.

Why This Approach Works

This isn’t just about being nice. It’s smart enrollment strategy.

✅ Reduces application drop-off by addressing the real reason students don’t complete apps (overwhelm, not lack of interest).

✅ Builds goodwill with students and families by showing them that your school gets it.

✅ Creates a better applicant experience—one that students will remember when it’s time to choose where to enroll.

Final Thoughts

The way colleges communicate with incomplete applicants matters. By shifting from pressure to encouragement, institutions can turn stress into momentum and procrastination into action.

It’s time to rethink the way we motivate students.