OCTOBER

SENIORS

• Start outlining essay ideas.
• Contact teachers about recommendations. Give them a month to write.
• Visit any of your college choices that you haven't seen already.

JUNIORS

• Attend college fairs, talk to people about their college experiences, and explore schools online. Keep a file on colleges that interest you.
• Write notes about your interests and courses you'd like to study.

NOVEMBER

SENIORS

• If you're applying early, don't miss the November deadline at most schools.

JUNIORS

• Concentrate on classes and improve your grades.
• Start to find colleges that match your interests.

DECEMBER

SENIORS

• Complete all applications neatly and mail them on time. Don't forget to enclose the application fee.
• Make sure you have a copy of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Call (800) 4-FED-AID or go online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
• Gather your financial records.

JUNIORS

• Review your academic record with your guidance counselor. Discuss the colleges you're interested in and your chances of acceptance.

JANUARY

SENIORS

• Submit your FAFSA as soon after January 1 as possible.
• Investigate scholarships.

JUNIORS

• Start preparing for the spring admission tests. Free study aids are available online, at the library, and in your guidance office.

FEBRUARY

SENIORS

• You should receive your Student Aid Report (SAR), noting eligibility for aid.
• Some colleges require mid-year grades. Be sure your high school sends them.

JUNIORS

• If possible, schedule campus visits when classes are in session to get a better feel for the school.

MARCH

SENIORS

• Plan to take AP exams in May.

JUNIORS

• Take the SAT I or ACT this spring.

APRIL

SENIORS

• Look for admission notices in the mail (some by e-mail).
• Carefully review financial aid award packages.
• Send required deposit to the school of your choice.
• Make sure your high school sends final grades, class rank, and proof of graduation to your college.

JUNIORS

• Narrow your college choices to five to eightschools.

MAY

SENIORS

• Decide which college you will attend; notify all others of your decision.
• Finalize all elements of your financial aid package. You may need to get loan applications directly from a lender.
• Enjoy the rest of your senior year and gear up for a busy summer before college.

JUNIORS

• Volunteer or do an internship this summer. The experience may provide material for your application essay.
• Identify teachers and other adults who can write you strong recommendations.