College Application Checklist

Spring of Junior Year (January - May)

☐ 📚 Research Colleges – Make a list of schools based on location, size, programs, cost, etc.
☐ 🏫 Visit Campuses – Attend virtual or in-person tours and open houses.
☐ 🎓 Meet with Your Counselor – Discuss academic progress and college goals.
☐ 📖 Plan Senior Year Courses – Take challenging classes to strengthen your transcript.
☐ ✏️ Start Preparing for Standardized Tests – Register and study for the SAT/ACT.
☐ 💰 Explore Scholarships & Financial Aid – Look into merit-based and need-based aid options.
☐ 📝 Build Your Resume – Keep track of extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and volunteer work.
☐ ☀️ Consider Summer Programs or Internships – Gain experience in your field of interest.

Summer Before Senior Year (June - August)

☐ 🎯 Finalize Your College List – Narrow down your choices to reach, match, and safety schools.
☐ ✍️ Start Writing Your College Essays – Brainstorm and draft your personal statement.
☐ 📨 Request Letters of Recommendation – Ask teachers or mentors early.
☐ 📅 Take or Retake SAT/ACT – Use summer to improve your score if needed.
☐ 📆 Create an Application Calendar – Track deadlines for each school.
☐ 🗂️ Work on Your Resume & Activities List – Organize everything for applications.
☐ 🏛️ Research Early Decision & Early Action – Decide if you want to apply early.
☐ 💵 Prepare for Financial Aid Forms – Learn about the FAFSA and CSS Profile.

Fall of Senior Year (September - November)

☐ ✏️ Finalize Your Essays – Edit and refine your personal statement and supplemental essays.
☐ 🖥️ Complete Applications – Fill out the Common App, Coalition App, or school-specific forms.
☐ 🚀 Submit Early Applications (if applicable) – Deadlines are typically in November.
☐ 📤 Send SAT/ACT Scores – Make sure your scores are sent to colleges.
☐ 🎪 Attend College Fairs & Info Sessions – Stay informed about schools on your list.
☐ 📩 Follow Up on Recommendations – Ensure teachers submit them on time.
☐ 🎓 Apply for Scholarships – Stay ahead of deadlines for private scholarships.
☐ 💰 File the FAFSA & CSS Profile – Financial aid applications open October 1.

Winter of Senior Year (December - February)

☐ 📝 Submit Regular Decision Applications – Most deadlines are in January.
☐ 🔍 Check Application Portals – Monitor emails for missing documents or updates.
☐ 🏆 Apply for More Scholarships – Continue looking for financial aid opportunities.

Spring of Senior Year (March - May)

☐ 📩 Review Acceptance Letters – Compare financial aid offers.
☐ 🏫 Visit Schools (If Possible) – Attend admitted student days.
☐ ✅ Make a Decision – Choose your college by May 1 (National Decision Day).
☐ 💳 Submit Enrollment Deposit – Secure your spot at your chosen school.
☐ 📜 Request Final Transcripts – Ensure your high school sends them to your college.
☐ 🎒 Prepare for College Life – Arrange housing, orientation, and other logistics.