Senior year is a special time of growth and culmination in every way. There will be many activities and traditions to celebrate this final year of High School, and it will be helpful to approach the senior year with optimism, enthusiasm, and prayer. Time and balance will be important to maintain perspective and to set a comfortable pace to accomplish the final steps of the college search and application process. Since first semester senior year grades factor into admission decisions, it is essential that you place appropriate concentration and dedication on academics, along with your other commitments.
• Invest your time well through a job, community service, or academic enrichment.
• Begin working on the Common Application available August 1 at www.commonapp.org. Getting a head start on your college applications will make the fall schedule much easier for you.
• Use your CCA email address to set up your Common App account.
Meet with your college advisor and talk with parents to discuss narrowing down your list of potential colleges or other post-graduation options. Conversations should include financial goals and obligations.
Log into Overgrad and finalize your list of schools.
Register for fall SAT and/or ACT tests, if needed.
Identify the specific requirements for each application including essays, interviews, a second teacher recommendation, or multiple SAT Subject Tests.
Create a master calendar or spreadsheet to help keep track of deadlines for college and financial aid applications.
Request your transcripts from CCA administrative staff at least two weeks prior to your application deadlines.
Request teacher recommendations at least one month prior to your application deadline, and follow up with your teachers to ensure letters are completed and submitted on time.
Communicate regularly with your college advisor and teachers writing your recommendations so that they are equipped to be strong advocates for you.
Ask your teachers, college advisor, and/or parents to proofread essays.
Complete the application for each school. If using the Common Application, identify which schools have supplements and complete those as well.
Check deadlines and submit applications for scholarships, honors programs, and other special programs.
Write personal thank you notes to teachers and others who helped you through the process.
Check your CCA email regularly and respond promptly.
References:
Gratefully adapted from Trinity Christian School’s handbook (with permission).
College Planning Calendar for Seniors
College Planning - Parents Action Plan for 12th Grade