Stay on Track

Your Stress Free Guide for Applying to College  

JUNIOR YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL

September
Have the college talk with your parents. Where do you want to go? What major? How much can you spend?

October
Take the PSAT. It can give you an idea of where you fall in the college applicant pool. Plus, your score may make you eligible for national scholarships.

November
Consider how you'll pay for college. Take a look at different types of loans and scholarships. From the exceptionally tall to the llama enthusiast, there's a scholarship opportunity for everyone!

December
Take the ACT/SAT. These tests are crucial to figuring out which schools are a good match for you. Consider taking practice tests and even a prep course to ensure that you get your best score possible.

March
Make a file for each school. Check out college fairs and visit campuses. Then compare information about each school's academics, financial aid, and campus life.

SENIOR YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL

August
Start your essays.  With your top schools in mind, start drafting your work and be sure to leave yourself time for edits, edits, and more edits.

September
Secure letters of recommendation.  Reach out to teachers, coaches, and employers who would be happy to write you a glowing review.  Don't forget to send them a thank you note afterwards'

October
Apply for financial aid.  Some student aid programs award funds on a first-come, first-served basis so dont' wait too long to submit your FAFSA.   Consider re-taking standardized tests.   You can also re-take your SAT and try to raise your scores.

November
Stay on top of deadlines.  Don't let the date for early application sneak up on you.  Many schools have different application deadlines; make sure you know when everything is due.

January
Apps are due.  January 1st is the universal deadline for most schools' applications, so make sure yours are in.  If you applied early action, you could get your decision letter any day.

February
Mail's here.  Keep an eye out for your college acceptance letters.

March
Watch for the financial aid offers.  This is when you'll get financial aid offers from schools that have accepted you.   Compare them to see which offers the best financial aid package.

April
Decision time.  After deciding where you'd like to go, make sure to stay on top of communications from your school.  Deposits, forms, and housing apps are all due prior to leaving in the fall.

May
Make a budget.  Talk with your parents to figure out how much you'll expect to earn and pay while at school.  Having a budget will start you on the journey toward financial responsibility.

Summer
Final to-do items.  This is the time to attend orientation, register for your classes, and make sure the tuition bill is paid.  It's also the time to have fun - and have an amazing time!

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