College ADMISSIONS time line (by grade level)
Freshman and Sophomore year:
Advice from a successful senior
Take challenging core courses
Explore career interests
Job shadow
Become involved in school and community
Save for college
Research college
Junior Year:
Take your standardized tests- In the spring and summer register for SAT and ACT.
Continue studying for the SAT and ACT
Go to college fairs
Make a list of possible colleges that you are interested in
Visit colleges
Over the summer start working on your college essay and Common App
Senior year:
Register for the ACT and SAT. Register early to avoid late fees. You will need a credit card to register online.
Attend “What to Expect Your Senior Year” with your parents, if possible.
Narrow down your college search to include a REACH, FIT, and SAFETY school. Remember to include a financial safety school as well.
Look at the college admissions requirements for the schools you are interested in and check to see if your transcript/test scores match what they require for admission.
Ask three teachers (preferably academic teachers) for letters of recommendation.
Check/college or career plans.
All transcript requests must be submitted in writing this year. A Transcript Request form is attached to this web page
With the exception of Early Action/Decision applicants, a general rule of thumb is to have all college applications in by December break. Thanksgiving is a great time to work on/submit your applications.
Know your deadlines!