It is better to apply on line first.  After you complet your application on line.  Mail all your transcripts and recommendation letters the very next day and then hit submit.  That way the admissions office will receive your paperwork together at the same time.  Hope this helps.

Just a tip:

Make sure you inform all those who you wish to fill out your reccomendations ahead of time.

Good Luck!

Ask your teacher or counslor for a recomendation letter as soon as you can.  Most teachers have tons of them to do and if you don't give them time they will be frustrated.  Check with your school counslor to see if your school has a specific process.  At my school we sent letters to the advising office and they sent out the transcript and letters at the same time.  I did most of my applications online and they were sent off ahead of  the letters  The universities will gather all of your data as it comes in but will do nothing about reviewing it until all the materials required are submitted.  Check with the colleges frequently so you know what you are missing, some will email you with that information.  Keep a file/folder for each college applied to.  I wrote on the cover what date I sent in everything.  Good Luck

thanks so much everyone! i have applied to 3 schools so far!!