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Last Updated: October 1, 2009
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Planning for College

Freshman Year

Take the most challenging curriculum you can comfortably handle
Focus on making the grades now that college admissions officers will want to see when reviewing your transcript in your senior year
Join and participate in two or three extracurricular activities
Get involved in community service
Keep up any special talent you may have, like the arts or athletics
Explore potential careers

Sophomore Year

Stay on track with your classes and grades
Take the PSAT in October
Continue participating in clubs and activities
Start concentrating on one major community service area
Look for opportunities for leadership in the organizations to which you belong
Begin researching colleges by reading a general guide book or accessing sites such as CollegeBoard, Peterson’s, Princeton Review
Contact colleges that interest you to request more information
Consider participating in a College Summer Program

Junior Year

Continue to stay on track with your classes and grades
Take the PSAT in October
Run for office or take a major leadership role in the organizations to which you belong
Attend college fairs in local areas
Identify the college features that suit your interests and needs
Begin a list of colleges and research those that interest you; meet with your college counselor to discuss your options
Attend sessions by college admissions representatives
Create a checklist of tests and registration deadlines
Register to take the SAT or ACT in the spring term
Take SAT II subject tests
Plan, if possible, a college visit during spring break and/or summer
Take AP exams
Plan a productive summer, e.g. a job, an internship, a summer college course, or a volunteer position
Work on sample essays for college applications
Create a resume listing your accomplishments, activities, work experience, community service, and goals
Begin narrowing down your college choices
Consider participation in a College Summer Program

Senior Year

Fall:

Have a conference with your college counselor to discuss and finalize your college plans
Create a checklist of application fees and admissions deadlines
Attend sessions by college admissions representatives
Begin completing applications
Work on college admissions essays
Contact teachers you’ve decided to write recommendations on your behalf; be sure to give them plenty of time to complete forms and letters before required deadlines
Submit Early Decision or Early Action applications by November deadline
Research and apply for scholarship opportunities

Winter:

Complete all applications by early January
Continue to review and apply for scholarship opportunities
Complete and submit your college financial aid application and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) between January 1 and March 1
Request that a mid-year grade report or high school transcript listing fall term grades be sent to colleges to which you are applying

Spring:

Begin making decisions: review your options, consult with your counselor, make a return visit to campus if necessary
Compare financial aid packages
Prepare for any last standardized tests, e.g. AP exams
Make your final college decision and follow up on financial aid information
Submit your deposit by May 1

Summer: