12th Grade Planning

College Admission Planning for Seniors in High School

At a Glance:

August:

• Prepare early! Applications typically open August 1st.

• Note all registration deadlines for fall ACT, SAT, and compare registration promptly. Read your application carefully to determine which, if any, Subject tests are required for admission or placement.

• Update your final list of college choices.

• Request teacher recommendations. Allow ample time for transcript and recommendation requests. DO not wait until the last minute.

• Three college visitation days are permitted per year.

September:

• Attend the PLP Senior College Parent Night.

• Plan to attend the college fairs in the Charlotte area and any college admission representation visits to PLP for schools you are considering.

• Complete all applications. We highly recommend submitting these applications BEFORE October 15th. As with all applications, keep copies of everything.

• Make final decisions regarding Early Decision and Early Action options.

• Take the ACT/SAT if applicable.

October:

• Financial Aid and Scholarships. If you plan to seek financial aid and are applying to private colleges and selective state universities, complete any school-specific items as appropriate (CSS Profile). Some competitive scholarship applications have deadlines this month. Be sure all recommendations are completed by the required deadline.

• Consider the Fall Bus Tour

• Complete any Early Decision/Early Action applications by October 15th.

• See your teachers, peers, and college counselor to perfect your college essays.

November:

• Finalize the remainder of your admission and scholarship applications. All should be completed by December.

December:

• Complete remaining applications!

• Prepare to complete FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student AId) as soon as possible after it is released! It is required in order to receive any need-based financial aid. The application can be found online at www.fafsa.rd.gov.

• First semester senior year grades are often a deciding factor in admission decisions.

January-June:

• Notify your School Counselor about any acceptances and scholarship awards. Update Naviance!

• Maintain your academic standing to avoid losing your admission spot, scholarships, or being placed on academic probation at your school of choice.

• Let colleges know your choice by May 1st. Also let schools know if you are NOT planning on attending.

• Be sure to meet all applicable deadlines and requirements for your school of choice.

• Submit a Final Transcript Request.

• Pride Project begins junior year with a research paper in English class; finishes senior year with Pride Presentation and self-directed Pride Product.