College Preparation Checklist

The College Preparation Checklist is one of the Federal Student Aid’s most popular resources for students and parents. Use the checklist to find out what you can do to prepare yourself (or your child) for college.

Q: Who should use the checklist?

A: Students (of all ages) who are thinking about attending college or trade school, and parents of students in elementary and secondary school.

Q: What is the checklist?

A: A “to do” list, starting with elementary school, to help students prepare academically and financially for education beyond high school. Each section is split into subsections for students and parents, explaining what to do and which publications or Web sites might be useful to them.

Q: When should a student or parent refer to the checklist?

A: At the beginning of every school year, and then more frequently as college approaches.

Another good site for preparations and info is Oregon Goes To College. Sponsored by Oregon GEAR-UP, this has info about colleges, college prep, and funding.