| · | Meet with your guidance counselor to talk about your postsecondary plans. Ask about the tests you should take and whether you should apply for Early Decision or Early Action. |
| · | Review your transcript to make sure you are on track to graduate on time. Get help if needed. |
| · | Learn the application process for each college. Get started on the applications now! Start writing your application essays. |
| · | Update your resume with your senior year activities. Your resume will help you with your applications. Plus, you’ll want to share it with people who are writing recommendations for you. |
| · | Ask teachers, counselors, coaches, or employers for letters of recommendation. Give them plenty of time. Make sure you give them a copy of your resume plus the recommendation form and a stamped envelope (if needed). |
| · | Be sure to write a thank you to each person who writes you a letter of recommendation! |
· SAT and/or ACT
· SAT Subject Tests (select subjects)
· ASSET, ACCUPLACER or COMPASS (for community college)
· ASVAB (for military)
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· Submit each application on time. Look at deadlines carefully, especially if you are applying for Early Decision or Early Action. Proofread each application before you send it and print a copy for your files.
· Work with your school counselor to get your transcript to each college.
· Complete your FAFSA form as close as possible to January 1. Complete a CSS PROFILE form if required by your colleges. Check college deadlines carefully, as the PROFILE may be due before January 1.
· Complete other scholarship and financial aid forms and submit.
· Confirm your colleges have all necessary materials from you.
· Have your school counselor send your first semester grades if required.
· Don’t get senioritis! Colleges will want to see your second semester grades too.
· You will start receiving admissions decisions and financial aid awards. Read everything you receive carefully and discuss it with your family. Some of it may require action on your part.
· Make a final decision and mail the enrollment form and deposit check to the school you select before the deadline (May 1 for most schools, but may be earlier for Early Decision or Early Action).
· Notify each school to which you were accepted but will not be attending so that your spot can be freed up for another student.
· If you are on a waiting list, contact the Admissions Office and let them know if you are still interested in the spot. If you are, update them on your spring grades and activities.
· Thank everyone who helped you with your college applications.
· Have your counselor send your final transcript to your college.
· If you plan on competing in Division I or Division II college sports, have your counselor send your final transcript to the NCAA Initial Eligibility Clearinghouse.
· Make your final financial aid decisions.
· Plan your summer – will you be working or starting an internship?
Name _____________________________
How can you make the most of junior and senior years? Use the Senior Calendar and this list of questions to see where you are in the postsecondary preparation process.
Have you registered for, or taken, any college entrance exams? If so, which exams and when?
Have you researched colleges and majors? Which ones sound most interesting to you?
Name 3 people you can ask to write a letter of recommendation for you. How can you ask them?
Have you researched scholarships and financial aid? What have you learned? If not, how can you do this? (Hint: www.collegeboard.org or www.thewashboard.org )
What are the application deadlines for your colleges? When should you start working?
Can you visit any of the colleges you are interested in? If not, can you register on their web sites to receive information? How many college web sites are you registered at?
Have you updated your resume? Why is your resume important?