• Senior Timeline

    Action Plan for High School Seniors

    • September - Secure admissions and college financial aid applications. If applying early decision, start filling out the application. Register to take the SAT's or ACT's if you have not yet taken these tests.
    • October - Prepare an outline and begin to write your college essays Application Essay Writing 101. Schedule college visits and meet with admissions counselor. Register to take SAT II's (if required for admissions). Give recommendation forms to counselors and teachers. Register for College Scholarship Service (if applicable). Send in application / transcripts to schools with rolling admission (e.g. Penn State).
       
    • November - Complete your essays. You may want to ask your English teacher for constructive comments. Start investigating with your parents about sources of financial aid. Have completed recommendations placed in your file in the guidance office. Complete your remaining college applications.Writing A College Essay
    • December - Familiarize yourself with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms at www.fafsa.ed.gov
    • January - Go online and complete and mail FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1st. 
    • February/March - Continue to investigate all sources of financial aid. Sign up for AP exams. Send in deposits if you are accepted by college of your choice.
    • April/May - Look for a summer job. Prepare for AP exams. If you are on a waiting list, contact the college to see how to strengthen your application. If you were denied admission, contact your counselor to discuss alternatives.