Critical Dates for The College Bound Senior High School Student

August

• Write important dates down so you do not miss any deadlines
• Meet with your guidance counselor to go over college plans and make sure your classes meet the standards of your college goals
• Sign up for the ACT or SAT

 

September

• Find out when the admission counselor to the college(s) or university(s) you selected is visiting your high school and meet with him/her.
• Ask teachers, high school counselors, employers and others for letters of recommendation for your college and scholarship applications. Be sure to give them at least a two week’s notice!
• Finalize your college application essay. Have a teacher look it over and give pointers and tips
• Make a list of scholarships in your community for which you wish to apply

 

October

• Finalize the list of colleges to which you wish to apply.
• Submit your applications for any scholarships you may be eligible for
• Re-take the ACT or SAT if you feel you can improve your score

 

November

• Finish submitting your college applications. Many guidance counselors kindly ask that you have all your applications submitted by Thanksgiving.
• Make a file on each school you applied to with a copy of your application, essay, and letters of recommendation you may have sent and all materials they have given you.

 

December

• Continue to apply for different scholarships and grants
• Enjoy a relaxing Winter Break — you’ve earned it!

 

January

• Complete your taxes as soon as possible

 

February

• Submit your completed FAFSA online if you haven’t already. Valentine’s Day (February 14) is a good target date to have your FAFSA completed!
• Schedule follow-up visits to your top three schools that have offered you admission. Make sure to schedule an appointment with each school’s financial aid office. Consider an overnight visit to get a real feel for the school and student life.