September:
Stay focused on grades (applies through the ENTIRE year)
Start brainstorming/creating rough drafts of college essays
Join clubs/volunteer if you don’t have many hours
Take ACT for the last time
October:
Gather list of “safety” and “stretch” schools
Send test scores to colleges
Begin, if you haven’t already, on college applications
Begin college essay
Consider making your own calendar of application deadlines
November:
Finalize college essays
Get in touch with counselor about colleges, essays, and references
Complete college applications and mail in
Request key financial aid and scholarship information from your list of colleges
December:
If you applied early to colleges, expect answers this month
Start detailed financial aid search, including outside sources for scholarships and loans
January:
If applying for financial aid, get started on preparations by obtaining a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form
February
Complete FAFSA
Keep track of your college applications; be sure all schools have received all your materials
March
Finalize financial aid applications
Continue searching and applying for scholarships and grants
College decision letters begin arriving
April
Make decision about college choice from among the colleges that accepted you
Submit tuition deposit to your college of choice
Notify all colleges (that accepted you) of your final decision
May
Be sure to submit paperwork for room and board
June
Celebrate your high school success!
Write thank you notes to all teachers/mentors that helped you
Start planning for college
Watch college’s summer deadlines (orientations, housing options, registration, etc.) closely
July
Register for fall courses at your college