I'm planning out my senior year and want to create a checklist for the college search and application process. What should I include to make sure I'm on top of everything? Deadline tips are also welcome!
Here's a checklist you might find helpful for navigating your college search and application process during your senior year.
1. August to September:
- Begin narrowing down your list of colleges. Consider factors such as program offerings, location, size, culture, and financial aid opportunities. Target around 8-15 schools, balancing safety, match, and reach schools.
- Create a calendar or spreadsheet to track application deadlines and requirements for each of your schools. Include components such as essays, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and standardized test scores.
- Finalize your activities list, which outlines your involvements and achievements throughout high school.
- Start drafting your college essays. Your main essay, or personal statement, should highlight significant aspects of your personality, values, or experiences. Also draft any required supplemental essays for your colleges.
2. October:
- If applicable, complete your Early Decision or Early Action applications. These deadlines usually fall in early to mid-November.
- Request letters of recommendation from teachers, if required by any of your colleges. Provide them with a 'brag sheet' outlining your achievements and aspirations.
3. November to December:
- Submit any remaining college applications. Many Regular Decision deadlines are in early January.
- For Regular Decision schools, complete all parts of your application, including essays, and submit them before winter break.
4. January to February:
- Fill out the FAFSA to apply for federal financial aid. The application opens October 1st and should ideally be completed by February.
- If required by any of your schools, complete the CSS Profile to be eligible for institutional financial aid.
- Confirm all of your application materials have been received by your colleges.
5. March to April:
- Track your admissions decisions as they arrive. You'll typically hear back from colleges by the end of March.
- Review your acceptance letters and financial aid packages. Reach out to financial aid offices if you have questions or need to negotiate aid.
6. May:
- Make your final college decision and submit your deposit, typically due by May 1st.
- Notify other colleges of your decision to decline their offer of admission.
This is not a comprehensive list and individual circumstances might necessitate adding or skipping steps. This should serve as a solid foundation from which to build your own personalized plan. Best of luck with your college planning!
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