Preparing for college can be a confusing and lengthy process. How do I setup a campus visit? How do I find out about scholarships? When is all the paperwork due? For this reason we have provided a timeline to help you prepare for college. Please do not hesitate to call, write or e-mail us with any questions or comments you have.
Fall Months
September
- Make a list of colleges/universities that interest you. Request an admissions application and information from these places.
- Prepare a calendar of important dates
- Find out when college or representatives will visit your school.
- Find out dates of college and university fairs.
- Make visits to your top choices.
October
- Apply online!
- Register and study for the December SAT or ACT.
- Make sure your calendar of important dates has current information about colleges/universities that interest you.
- Request admission applications from colleges or universities that you may have added to your list.
- Talk to your guidance counselor and teachers about letters of recommendation.
November
- Apply, if you have not done so already.
- Get PINs for yourself and parent(s) from www.pin.ed.gov for financial aid purposes.
- Attend college or university fairs and financial aid workshops.
- Inform coaches or directors about any interests you might have for scholarships.
Winter Months
December
- Finalize your college or university list
- Apply!
- Take the SAT or ACT and have your scores sent to the colleges or universities of your choice.
- During the holiday break, talk with friends and/or relatives who are attending or have attended the colleges or universities on your list.
January
- Begin gathering your financial records for the previous year and file your taxes as soon as possible (parents and students)
- Use information from tax reports to complete your FAFSA online at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/ (do not use estimated figures it will cost you time in the end.)
- Use the Educational Planning Center closest to your area.
February
- Make certain your applications have been received by the colleges and universities. You should receive acknowledgement; if you do not, contact them.
- Send in your deposit to your first choice college or university.
- If you have not visited the colleges or universities of your choice, do so as soon as possible.
Spring Months
March
- Make sure you have sent all required information to the financial aid office at each institution. Usually a copy of your family's current income tax return is required.
April
- Together (parents and student), compare financial aid awards if you have applied for aid.
- Discuss how your college education will be paid for and whether you will need to work.
- Decide which college or university you will attend.
- Notify the other colleges or universities that you will not attend.
May
- Write thank you notes to those who have helped you with the application process, and inform them of your decision.
- Check on housing, financial aid, orientation, and all other information.
- Graduate from high school on time and in good standing.
- Double check that your final transcript has been sent to the college you will be attending.