YOU'RE ALMOST THERE!!!
Look through this timeline for a general idea of what to expect and use the other tabs for more information on the different tasks.
This is not to make you feel overwhelmed, but just prepare you for what's to come throughout the entire year.
Remember to take care of yourself and enjoy your remaining time in high school. I am here as a resource to help guide you and get you where you want to be!
Below is an example timeline that a fellow adviser, Ms Jones, made! Where you see her name, you can replace with mine and remember to come see me instead for any help!
Schedule an appointment with Ms. Yeboah
Create a Google folder to keep all college-related documents/materials in one place!
Register early for the SAT/ACT
Ask for a fee waiver!
SAT: www.collegeboard.com
ACT: www.actstudent.org
Research colleges and make a list (see "College Overview" tab for more information)
Complete the RDS - you will want to have this done before you submit applications
See "RDS" tab for more information
Create all college-related accounts (make sure to use a professional personal email. If you are unsure about what a professional email address looks like, please ask!):
Make a CFNC.org account (needed for RDS and College Applications)
Make a Common App Account
Consider applying for early action/early decision.
Begin filling out applications on Common App or CFNC (for Community colleges!!!)
Begin preparing applications with October and November deadlines
Begin writing application essays
Attend an information session! (MORE DETAILS TO COME!!!)
Begin looking at scholarships (private, local, institutional)
See "Scholarships" for more information about deadlines.
Ask for letters of recommendation
The earlier you ask, the better!
Ask for a GOOD letter of recommendation specifically from teachers, mentors, or coaches who know your character, your work ethic, and with whom you have a great relationship.
Create an FSA ID at studentaid.gov (for both you and your parent/guardian)
See the "FAFSA" tab for instructions
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 19 - 25, 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.
Participate in FREE COLLEGE APPLICATION WEEK (CAW) from October 19-25
We will have the college fair and various application workshops (CHECK PARENTSQUARE FOR DATES WHEN I POST THEM!!!)
Work on gathering everything you need for FAFSA, fill out and submit your FAFSA (expected to open October 1st)
See "FAFSA" tab for more information
Attend one of Ms. Yeboah's FAFSA Nights!
Some schools require CSS Profile
Click here for a list of schools that require a CSS Profile (dated for the 2026 - 27 year): CSS Profile Participating Institutions and Programs
Start applying to scholarships! Free money never hurts.
Check the "Scholarships" tab for more information!
Ask a counselor about submitting a transcript to prospective colleges or visit CFNC
Submit applications with November deadlines (again, be mindful of institutions' deadlines for admissions AND scholarships)
Make sure all test scores, transcripts, and supplemental information have been sent in. You can do this by checking the college application portals you used to apply.
Start preparing for applications due in January
SCHOLARSHIPS! Never stop looking for scholarships!
Keep your College Info up to date and in one place!
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!
It can be tough to decide what your next step is, but reach out if you need help! I can help you go over financial aid packets with you as well.
Congratulations!