Senior year is an exciting time, but can also be overwhelming! Just as you're getting to the finish line of high school, you find yourself and the starting line of the rest of your life! This is the year for making some big decisions, and we're here to help.
12TH GRADE TIMELINE
Check your credits; make sure you are taking the classes and tests you need to graduate and begin your post-secondary institution/job/apprenticeship.
If you are planning on attending college, sign up for the first quarter Futures Lounge seminar. We will cover the entire application process, including filling out the common app, writing successful personal essays, and applying for financial aid.
If you are planning on applying to a military academy, now is the time to obtain a nomination from your U.S. Senator or Representative and take the Candidate Fitness Assessment. This page from Westpoint has lots of helpful information on steps to admission.
Update your information on your Schoolinks Resume and Profile.
Both students and parents should visit the FAFSA website so you are ready to apply for federal aid electronically in October. Create an FSA ID now.
Complete the Federal Student Aid Estimator to find out how much federal student aid you may be eligible for.
Consult the test and registration dates for the SAT and/or ACT; learn what date these tests will be offered either on Orcas or off island. Mark your calendars to avoid late registration fees.
Ask teachers to write letters of recommendation as needed. Check the Guidelines on how to ask for a letter of recommendation.
If you intend/hope to play college sports, register with the NCAA (National College Athletic Association) Clearinghouse ASAP. Eligibility depends on talent, GPA, test scores, and classes taken.
Complete online applications to state colleges or private schools. Many schools are now on the CommonApp (common app.org); others have their own application portal.
Check Early Decision and Early Action deadlines.
Visit campuses of schools you are applying to, virtually or in person if possible.
Meet with the Counselor regarding your recommendation letter. Anyone needing a recommendation for college, an apprenticeship program, job, or voc/tech school needs to do this. The Counselor will meet with students to glean information to write recommendation letters. These interviews can be through Google Meet.
Plan to write your college essay and even apply to college during October so that November is free to work on your senior paper.
The Futures Fair: Check the date for this college fair at OIHS.
Seattle National College Fair: Normally this event takes place at the WA State Convention and Trade Center over two days. Representatives from upwards of 300 colleges and universities usually attend. Register in advance, and make a plan before you go as it can be overwhelming!
Visit campuses of schools you are applying to, virtually or in person if possible.
The University of Washington application deadline is Nov. 15. Western Washington University's early action deadline is November 1 (admission decision by December 31).
ASVAB Test given at OIHS.This is a three-hour skills assessment given free by the military. By taking this test you are NOT making any commitment to join the military; you are simply getting free information about yourself and potential careers. If you are joining the military after graduation, this test is required. Sign-up in the office.
The University of California schools’ admission application filing period for all applicants is Nov. 1-30.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) site opens December 1. Be sure you have your personal and monetary information organized so you can begin applying for financial aid. Go to fafsa.ed.gov to complete this application online. Check if you also need to submit the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE, complete this form online and submit it to appropriate schools. Apply early as funds are allotted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Parent/Student Financial Aid Meeting/College Information Meeting: A financial planner from Seattle will be talking about financial aid and how to pay for college
Visit campuses of schools you are applying to, virtually or in person if possible.
Work on your postsecondary applications.
Complete your Senior Paper.
Finish strong in your classes and do well on your exams.
Contact the Counselor to make sure you are registered for everything you need to graduate next semester.
Feb 1st - Last opportunity to change your senior project
Complete application deadlines as needed for many colleges. Even if your school has Open Admissions, often particular programs fill up so it is advisable to apply early. Don’t wait!
Submit mid-year transcripts to colleges or voc/tech schools that request them. Use the form in the office to make these requests.
Make sure your applications have been received – check your email!
Apply for scholarships.
Review your financial aid award letters with your parents. Call the school’s financial aid office for clarification if you need. Keep track of payment deadlines. Ask if you have questions!
Local scholarship book is released, fill out
May 1st - Declare college or voc/tech school and send a deposit. Do this as soon as possible because getting dorm housing is dependent on this deposit. Notify the counselor of your decision.
Take AP Exams.
Attend and enjoy OIHS Prom on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend.
Have final transcripts sent to post-secondary choices, most schools accept these electronically.
Senior Presentations
Celebration of Success
Graduate - CONGRATULATIONS!
You will undoubtedly have questions about this information. Please ask!
Jamie Kluckow/Post-Graduate Prep: jkluckow@oisd.org
Dr. Rachel Fletcher/Counselor: rfletcher@oisd.org