✅ Action Steps:

• Research schools using tools like College Board. 

• Consider factors like location, size, cost, and program of study.

• Visit campuses virtually or in person if possible.
  
  

💡 Tips:

• Include at least 2 safety, 3–4 match, and 2 reach schools.

✅ Action Steps:

• • Check test policies/scores for each college.

  • Our Testing Calendar is as follows: 

    1. 1. 1. 10/16/2025

             1. 10th : TSI 

             2. 11th : Pre-ACT

             3. 12th: ACT 

          2. 2/19/2025

             1. 11th : ACT

             2. 12th: TSI 

• Ask Mrs. Andrew has preregistered you for your exams. If you are interested in taking the ASVAB (military readiness exam) stop by the College and Career Center and talk to Mrs. Andrew.

• Many colleges are test-optional, so check if they will accept your TSI score.

✅ Action Steps:

• Get started with a Paper Application here!

Your paper applications will be delivered to you VIA PCC4 the first week of school. It needs to completed and REVIEWED by your PeerLeader.

• Make a profile at applytexas.org
  You need to use a NON-SCHOOL gmail account and password! Once you have created a PROFESSIONAL email and password, submit them to Mrs. Andrew.

• Fill in grades, activities, and essays.
  
  

• Request teacher recommendations (by September).
  
  

Tips:

• Include all forms of leadership—even helping family counts!
  
  

• Request recommendations early.

✅ Action Steps:

• NACAC Fee Waiver Form: Print Form and take to Mrs. Andrew → Download here 

• Request for Mrs. Andrew to send your transcript here.

• Send your fee waiver and transcript to the admissions office of your college of your choosing
  
  

💡 Tips:

• Indicate you’re requesting a fee waiver inside ApplyTexas.
  
  

• You may need to upload proof (like free/reduced lunch eligibility).
  
  

• Mrs. Andrew may also need to verify.

✅Action Steps:

• Submit FAFSA at FAFSA.gov starting October 1.
  
  

• If you're a Texas resident but not a U.S. citizen, submit the TASFA instead. More info here.
  
  

• Research scholarships on College Board, Going Merry, and Scholarships360.
  
  

💡 Tips:

• Visit a FAFSA night at your high school or check the Events Calendar for workshops!
  
  

• Complete your aid apps EARLY for better chances at grants.

✅Action Steps:

• Check each school’s deadlines—many have priority dates in November or December.

• Monitor your email and college portals.

• Confirm that transcripts, test scores, and other documents are received.

• 💡 Tips:

• Use your planner to track each college’s deadlines, fees, documents, and login info.

✅Action Steps:

• Log into your student portal at each college to view aid packages.

• Compare tuition, grants, loans, and scholarships.

• Ask financial aid offices questions—especially about housing, meal plans, and books.

• 💡 Tips:

• You can appeal your aid offer! If another school offered more, show proof and ask for reconsideration.

📅 Decision Day: May 1 (unless your college has a different date)

✅Action Steps:

• Submit your deposit.

• Register for orientation and housing.

• Ask about first-gen student groups.

💡 Tips:

• Connect with incoming students via GroupMe, Discord, or social media.

• Explore campus resources like academic advising, mental health services, and tutoring.