Preparing for college can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for high school seniors. To help you stay organized and on track, here’s a college prep checklist tailored for seniors:
Fall Semester (September – December)
- Finalize Your College List
- Research and narrow down your list of colleges.
- Consider factors like location, size, majors offered, and campus culture.
- Attend College Fairs and Information Sessions
- Attend college fairs and information sessions to learn more about different colleges.
- Meet with college representatives and ask questions about the application process.
- Request Letters of Recommendation
- Ask teachers, counselors, or mentors for letters of recommendation.
- Provide them with a resume or summary of your accomplishments to help them write a strong recommendation.
- Prepare for Standardized Tests
- Register and prepare for the SAT or ACT.
- Consider taking subject tests if required by your prospective colleges.
- Start Your College Applications
- Create accounts on college application portals (Common App, Coalition App, etc.).
- Begin working on your college essays and personal statement.
- Apply for Scholarships
- Research and apply for scholarships that match your interests and qualifications.
- Check with your school counselor for local scholarship opportunities.
- Attend Financial Aid Workshops
- Learn about the financial aid process and how to apply for grants, loans, and scholarships.
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after October 1st.
- Visit Colleges
- Schedule campus visits to colleges you’re interested in.
- Attend campus tours, information sessions, and meet with admissions representatives.
Spring Semester (January – May)
- Submit College Applications
- Complete and submit your college applications by the deadlines.
- Double-check all requirements, including transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation.
- Apply for Housing
- If you plan to live on campus, submit your housing application and deposit.
- Continue Searching for Scholarships
- Look for additional scholarship opportunities and submit applications.
- Review Financial Aid Offers
- Review and compare financial aid offers from different colleges.
- Consider the cost of attendance, scholarships, grants, and loans offered.
- Make Your Final College Decision
- Compare acceptance letters, financial aid offers, and other factors.
- Make your final decision and submit your enrollment deposit by the deadline.
- Prepare for Graduation
- Stay focused on your coursework and maintain good grades.
- Attend senior events and prepare for graduation ceremonies.
- Finalize Housing and Roommate Arrangements
- Confirm your housing arrangements and connect with your future roommate(s).
- Stay Organized
- Keep track of deadlines, important dates, and documents.
- Stay in touch with your school counselor and college admissions representatives.
By following this checklist, you can stay organized and ensure you’re on track for a successful transition to college. Best of luck with your college applications and future endeavors
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