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Admission Advice > Improving Your Chances

College Calendar Checklist

By Careers and Colleges

SEPTEMBER

  • Finalize the list of colleges you plan to apply to and review them with your guidance counselor. For more college information and advice, visit www.careersandcolleges.com.
  • Collect application materials and keep careful track of all due dates.
  • Decide if you need to take or retake the SAT I or ACT, and register!


OCTOBER

  • Start outlining application essay ideas.
  • Ask teachers, coaches, or others to write recommendations. Give them at least a month to write.
  • Visit any colleges you haven’t seen already.


NOVEMBER

  • Complete a FAFSA4caster (www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov) for an estimate of your financial aid eligibility.
  • If you’re applying early, don’t miss the deadline.


DECEMBER

  • Complete all applications neatly and send them on time. Don’t forget to include 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.


JANUARY

  • Submit your FAFSA as soon after January 1st as possible.
  • Look for scholarships. Visit www.careersandcolleges.com for more information on scholarships, loans, and financial aid.

FEBRUARY

  • You should receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) if you submitted the FAFSA in January. It indicates eligibility for aid and your Expected Family Contribution (EFC).
  • Some colleges require mid-year grades. Be sure your high school sends them.


MARCH

  • Plan to take AP exams in May.


APRIL

  • Look for admission notices in the mail or e-mail.
  • Carefully review financial aid award packages.
  • Decide which college you will attend; notify all others of your decision.


MAY

  • Make sure your high school sends your final grades, class rank, and proof of graduation to your college.
  • Send required deposit to the school of your choice.
  • 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 get ready for a busy summer before college!

2009