07 February

Freshmen

• • The fastest-growing occupations require some type of education beyond high school. Which jobs are in demand? What types of tasks do they involve? What are the average salaries? Find out about careers that may interest you/

  • Looking for ways to raise your grades? Talk to your teachers to find out how you can become a better student. Find out if you can ear extra credit and whether teachers can work with you occasionally after class.

  • If you're an athlete hoping to play sports in college, it's important to being planning. Find out what the NCA academic requirements are at www.ncaaclearninghouse.net and check with your school counselor for more information.

Sophomores

• • Start thinking about college majors. What matches your skills and interests? Have you thought about how specific majors relate to careers? Explore college majors and careers that might be right for you.

  • Saving money is the best way to prepare for the cost of a college education. What are the best ways for you to save? Make a spending plan for yourself where you set aside a certain dollar amount each month to help pay for college.

  • If you're an athlete hoping to play sports in college, it's important to being planning. Find out what the NCA academic requirements are at www.ncaaclearninghouse.net and check with your school counselor for more information.

Juniors

• • Soon you'll be completing college and scholarship applications. Put together a resume listing your activities, awards, school achievements, employment and volunteer experience.

  • Investigate careers.

  • Make sure your senior year includes the credits needed to meet college entrance requirements. Talk to your school counselor about AP (Advanced Placement) courses and CLEP (College Level Examination Program) tests. Consider taking honors or college-level classes while you're still in high school.

  • If your planning to take the April ACT test, register now.

Seniors

• • Make sure your first semester transcripts have been sent to the college(s) you've applied to.

  • If you haven't already submitted your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you should do so as soon as possible.

  • Watch out for deadlines, including your college's priority filing deadline and any scholarship deadlines that apply to you.

  • Keep copies of your completed federal tax returns handy. Be prepared to mail them to your college(s) if they are requested. Promptly respond to document requests made by colleges.

  • Expect your Student Aid Report (SAR) one to four weeks from the time you file your FAFSA.

Parent

• • Ask your employer if they offer scholarships or tuition reimbursement programs. Many employers offer scholarships specifically for employees' dependents.