SENIORS NOW

Prepare for and complete any standardized testing requirements and be aware of deadlines to register for tests. Confirm the different testing requirements of the colleges where you intend to apply. More information is here: www.collegeboard.com & www.act.org. Familiarize yourself with the Score Choice policy for the colleges where you apply. Finish testing by December test date.

Take a challenging course load at your high school and make sure you are fulfilling any college admission requirements. Continue to follow a rigorous program of study. Ask to review your official transcript as this is what college officials will see and errors can show up.

Confirm with those writing recommendation letters for you. See if the writers will submit online or using paper forms. Give the writers a copy of your activity resume. Check with colleges to see if supplemental recommendations are appropriate.

Most colleges will accept an artistic supplement. If you do have one, make sure portfolios, audition CD’s/DVD’s, prepared urls’ or YouTubes are sent to colleges and note specific deadlines for artistic supplements as they can differ from college application deadlines.

Continue doing web research on colleges and visit if possible. Narrow your college list and create an apply timeline.

FROM JANUARY

Check with colleges where you apply to confirm their receipt of your completed application

Begin filling out and submitting financial aid forms. FAFSA information is available here: http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/ You may need to also fill out the CSS profile that some colleges require – You can find more information here: https://profileonline.collegeboard.com/prf/index.jsp

Keep searching for potential scholarships – a free search widget is here: http://college-connections.com/college-financial-planning.html

If you apply Regular Decision, make sure your school counselor submits your mid-year report to the colleges that require that information.

Check to see if your state has financial aid programs and apply where appropriate

SPRING

You may want to visit colleges where you have been accepted before you make your final decision.

Study and take any AP exams the first week of May

Make your final decision and notify the college you will be attending before their deposit deadline (usually May 1st) Rescind their offer of admission if you will not attend to make room for any wait-listed students. More information on making your final decision here: http://www.college-connections.com/blog/?p=998

SUMMER

Enjoy your graduation and celebrate your great efforts this past year!

Make plans to attend freshmen orientation at the college you will attend

Prepare a checklist of what you will need to take to college.