Applying to college is a large part of many seniors’ experiences in their last year of high school and it’s a process that requires careful planning and organization. College applications have many steps and lots of components that have to be completed in an accurate and timely manner. They’re the first impression you give to the schools that you’re hoping to attend, so it’s important to be prepared. While the bulk of the application process occurs in your senior year, there’s plenty you can do in your early high school years to help prepare too. Today I’m sharing a timeline for college application success – that includes what you can do throughout your high school career for success!
Freshman and Sophomore Years
By now, most students have decided if they’re interested in the college route. If that’s the plan, here’s a few things to do in your first two years of school:
Explore Interests:
Participate in extracurricular activities like clubs, after school sports, or the arts programs to discover your passions and develop new skills. It’s important to show that you’re dedicated to your time outside of the classroom, too. These two years are also a good time to build volunteer experiences and showcase your care for others. Finally, form connections with teachers and counselors who can later provide strong letters of recommendation when the time comes.
Focus on Academics:
In your first two years of school (and all of them, frankly!), enroll in the honors or Advanced Placement courses to strengthen your academic record. If that’s not feasible for you, that’s okay too! Make sure you’re showing a strong academic start to your high school years regardless of the classes you take.
Junior Year
Spring:
In the spring of your junior year, start researching colleges and/or universities that interest you. Consider factors such as location, size, majors offered, and campus culture. Talk with your family about planning a visit to campus (read my tips on that here!) so you can experience what it’s like in real life. The spring is also the time to register for your SAT or ACT. It’s also the perfect time to study for them!
Summer:
By now, you’ve hopefully completed your campus visits and tours. Take the time in the summer to compile a list of potential colleges based on your research and visits. At this point in the year, you can review common essay prompts and begin brainstorming ideas for your applications. Personal statements can also be hard to write, so I recommend beginning on that process, to!
While it’s important to rest and recharge during the summer, it’s also a good time to participate in activities that interest you, such as internships, jobs, or volunteer work. If you have a job, work to save some of the money for college expenses – they add up quickly!
Senior Year
Fall:
Narrow down your list to a mix of safety, match, and reach schools. By now, you’re going to be completing your applications so ask teachers and counselors for letters of recommendation. Provide them with necessary information and deadlines – I always recommend buffering that deadline by a few days so everything is turned in early. In the fall, retake any SAT or ACT tests if necessary.
If you’re applying for Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA), ensure applications are submitted by early November. Don’t forget that the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) should open on October 1. Complete it as soon as you can and check if any colleges require the CSS Profile. Financial aid applications should be done as soon as possible once they open. Oftentimes, financial aid is first come, first serve so you want to submit your paperwork as soon as you can!
Winter:
Complete and submit regular decision applications by early January. Once your applications are in, regularly check application portals for updates or additional requirements. If the schools do need any clarifications, adjustments or updated documents, ensure that you return them in a timely manner.
Spring:
In the early spring, students will begin receiving acceptance letters and financial aid award letters. Review each offer carefully, aiming to compare apples to apples – especially where money is concerned. If you haven’t already visited the campuses, make one final trip out for your top choices before committing. By May 1st, you should decide where you’re attending. Notify other colleges of your decision so that students on the waitlist will be offered a spot, if possible.
Once all of that is done, you get to kick back and relax! Congratulations! I know that the process to college can feel tiring and long – but it is so worth it. Good luck!
More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors
Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.