Register and take the ACT and/or SAT
Ask for a fee waiver!
Research colleges and make a list (see "College Overview" tab for more information)
Complete the RDS
See "RDS" tab for more information
Create all college related accounts (make sure to use personal email):
Make CFNC.org (need for RDS and College Applications)
Make Common App Account
Create an FSA ID at fafsa.ed.gov (for both you and your parent/guardian)
See "FAFSA" tab for instructions
Ask for letters of recommendation
The earlier you ask, the better!
Check to see if any of the schools from your list require essays/short answers and begin working on those!
Finish college applications (again, be mindful of institutions deadlines for admissions AND scholarships)
Make sure all test scores, transcripts, and supplemental information has been sent in. You can do this by checking the college application portals you used to apply.
SCHOLARSHIPS! Never stop looking for scholarships!
Begin your FAFSA in January and check FAFSA deadlines for each school to which you applied.
March 1st is a good rule of thumb, but some schools need it done earlier. Also, earlier is better since grant and loan money is sometimes contingent on the remaining funds.
Submit mid-year transcripts/reports if required
SCHOLARSHIPS
You will begin to hear back from colleges, scholarships, and financial aid meaning...it is time to decide!
If can be tough to decide what your next step is, reach out if you need help! I can help you go over financial aid packets with you as well.
Congratulations!
Take the SAT and/or ACT if applicable
Bring your SAT admission ticket, a photo ID, a calculator, and a snack.
If you need to re-test register for the November SAT
If you haven’t already, begin college applications so you can have them complete by College Application Week (October 16 - 20, during which many of the NC public, private, and community colleges waive their application fee)!
Be aware of your application deadlines! They can sneak up on you.
Some schools require CSS Profile
Click here for a list of schools that required a CSS profile last year: https://profile.collegeboard.org/profile/ppi/participatingInstitutions.aspx
Start looking for and applying to scholarships! Free money never hurts.