Senior's College Check List

East High School

• Register for SATs and ACTs

Due to COVID-19 closures, many colleges are currently using a “test-optional” policy.  With test-optional colleges, you will NOT be penalized if you do not submit SAT scores. Check their websites and consult with your counselor.  RCSD seniors will take the SAT in-school, FOR FREE, on Wednesday, October 9th.

• Create your Naviance Account.

Naviance will be used by you and your counselor to track your applications, and to send your transcripts and     other documents.

• Create your Common App Account (if you're applying to 4-year colleges).   Link this to your Naviance account.

• Check in with your counselor REGULARLY for updated senior information.

• Search for colleges based on your interests.  Try bigfuture.collegeboard.org  and Naviance.  

• Narrow your college list down to your top choices.  Consult with your counselor regarding selectivity, HEOP/EOP programs, and other special programs.

• Check deadlines for each college and make sure you inform your counselor at least 4 weeks in advance.  Most applications will be due between December 15 and January 15.

• Contact two to three teachers for recommendations.  Share copies of your resume or Brag Sheet for their reference.  Use this link to share information about yourself with your counselor https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd2VOruTrdBxiV27WHVoMzYNEG3dszt1VGICe-5CvxiBqwS_Q/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0

• Start writing your personal statement.  Share drafts with your English teacher, counselor and other advisors for review.

• Finalize your personal statement.  DO NOT SUBMIT until your teacher and/or counselor have reviewed it.

• Submit final completed applications, ideally, two to three weeks in advance of the deadline.

• Complete your financial aid process, Submit your FAFSA and NYS TAP online:

• Attend the FAFSA-Fest at East High School to get assistance from financial aid professionals!  Date TBD in December (after FAFSA opens). See your counselor for details.

• FAFSA submissions are accepted beginning on October 1st

• ”Strive for Five” ….Search for scholarships on web, and  complete at least 5 scholarship applications!  Try racf.org, fastweb.com, ulr.org/Programs/YouthEducationDevelopment/BlackScholars

•  Check Naviance regularly for scholarship information. 

Most scholarship applications will be available second semester.

• Complete all EOP/HEOP documentation, as needed.

• Complete Financial Aid Verification, as needed.

• Make your college selection and send your Commitment/Deposit by May 1.

• Accept your financial aid. 

Your financial aid package will almost certainly include Student Loans.  You must complete Student Loan Counseling on-line to understand the terms of your loan.  You will also need to sign a Master Promissory Note on-line. 

• Plan for Student Orientation (and Move-in, if you will live on campus)!  Gather your supplies.  Make note of Student Registration date(s).      

• You’re off....!!!!

Another resource....the Senior Launch Guide

Please follow the link below for the Senior Launch Guide - It will walk you through the steps for whatever your plans are after high school.

Senior Launch Guide

Please check your email and let your counselor know if colleges are asking for additional information. 

College Planning Calendars:

Sophomores:       

• https://secure-media.collegeboard.org/CollegePlanning/media/pdf/BigFuture-College-Planning-Calendar-Juniors.pdf 

Juniors:  

• https://www.nacacfairs.org/learn/apply/preparing-for-college-junior-check-list/

Athletes (all grades):  

• https://blog.collegeboard.org/college-planning-checklist-for-student-athletes 

Parents:  

• https://parents.collegeboard.org/planning-for-college/applications-and-admission/college-application-process