Is there a checklist for the college application process?

I feel like there are so many things to remember when applying to college. Does anyone have a checklist or resource with an overview of the college application process that you found useful? I'm hoping to avoid missing any important steps.

Absolutely! There are numerous steps in the college application process, so having a checklist to help stay organized is a great idea. Here's a condensed version:

1. Academic Preparation: Make sure you are taking the appropriate course load and maintaining a strong GPA throughout your high school career.

2. Research Colleges: Develop a list of reach, target, and safety schools that match your interests and goals. Be sure to consider factors such as location, size, campus culture, and academic programs.

3. Standardized Tests: Prepare for and take the necessary standardized tests (SAT or ACT). Remember these are requirements for some schools like Dartmouth, Harvard, and Purdue.

4. Extracurriculars: Continue to build a substantial, balanced list of extracurricular activities. Remember that quality matters more than quantity. Strive primarily for tier 1 or 2 activities to be competitive at highly selective colleges.

5. College Essays: Start brainstorming and drafting your college essays. Avoid cliché topics like winning a sports match or a transformative travel experience, unless you can write about it uniquely or it's incredibly personal.

6. Letters of Recommendation: Ask teachers, counselors, or coaches for letters of recommendation, typically during the spring of your junior year.

7. Application: Begin filling out college applications, typically in the summer before your senior year. Remember the Common App and/or Coalition Application allow you to apply to multiple colleges with a single application.

8. Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as close as possible to its release date in your senior year to tap into the maximum amount of aid.

9. Interviews: Some colleges offer (optional) interviews, either on campus or with local alumni. If offered an interview, it's typically in your best interest to accept.

10. Early Decision or Early Action Application Deadlines: If you're applying Early Decision or Early Action, aim to complete those applications by early November (the deadline depends on the school) of your senior year.

11. Regular Decision Application Deadline: If you're applying Regular Decision, aim to complete the applications by January 1 or 15 of your senior year be sure to check the specific date for every school.

12. Wait for Decisions: Most colleges send out their decisions by April 1.

Remember that timelines might vary depending on the specific requirements of the colleges to which you're applying. Keep an eye on individual college websites for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Good luck!