Senior Year is Here: Your Month-to-Month College Planning Guide

As the school year kicks off, you might be thinking about what comes next. Whether you're a senior ready to dive into college applications or just planning ahead, this guide will help you stay organized and confident. With many options available, including two- and four-year colleges, online programs, and more, planning now will help set you on the right path. Use this guide to keep track of each step and ensure you’re prepared for what’s ahead.

Starting Early? Plan Ahead with These Opportunities Junior Year

Even though this guide is for seniors, it’s never too early to start preparing. If you’re a junior or just looking to get a jump start, here are a few things to keep in mind:

During your junior year, consider taking advanced courses such as Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB). These courses strengthen your academic profile and make your application stand out. Focus on core subjects like math, science, English, and social studies, and challenge yourself with courses that show your commitment to learning.

Take the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) to practice for the SAT and potentially qualify for the National Merit Scholarship. This is a national scholarship awarded based on your PSAT score, ranging from $500 to $4,000. Start exploring colleges through online tools, college fairs, and campus visits to begin narrowing down your options. Also, take practice tests for the SAT or ACT (college admission exams widely accepted by American universities) to decide which test fits your needs best. The SAT tests reading, writing, and math, while the ACT tests reading, English, math, and science, with both having an optional essay section. This early preparation will make your senior year smoother.

Your Step-by-Step Timeline for Applying to Colleges Senior Year

Summer Before Senior Year

The summer before your senior year is the perfect time to start your college applications. Visit colleges to see which ones might be best for you. Finalize your list of schools and make a list of application deadlines. Continue working on your application essays and gather materials for recommendation letters. Organize your financial aid plans and list scholarships with their deadlines as well. You may also consider getting a job or internship to build your resume and save money for college.

September

As the new school year begins, focus on key tasks. If you need to improve your SAT or ACT scores, now’s the time to take these tests. Finish your college application essays and gather all necessary materials. Reach out to teachers for letters of recommendation early in the semester. If you're applying Early Decision (binding commitment to attend if accepted) or Early Action (non-binding and allows you to apply to other schools), make sure to complete these applications and send your test scores to those schools. Early Decision deadlines are typically at the beginning of November, while Early Action deadlines are around early to mid-November, with decisions coming in early to mid-December.

October

By October, start narrowing down your list of colleges and work on your applications. Make changes to each application so they match with each specific school. Attend college fairs to learn more about your options and check that your high school transcripts meet their requirements. If you’re applying Early Decision or Early Action, make sure to send in your applications by the deadlines.

November

November is crucial for completing your college applications. Finalize your essays, get feedback from teachers and mentors, and send in your applications. Spend time learning more about financial aid and scholarships and take action steps right away.  If you haven’t taken or need to retake your SAT or ACT, register for the December test. Don’t forget — Early Decision and Early Action deadlines are often in November.

December

Most colleges have regular application deadlines in December. Make sure you’ve kept track of all deadlines and submit your applications on time. Confirm that all test scores and letters of recommendation have been sent. Start reviewing your financial aid options and send your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as part of your financial aid process. If you applied Early Decision and have been accepted, celebrate your success and inform the other schools where you applied.

January

In January, follow up on any outstanding application materials. Check that your FAFSA has been processed and review your Student Aid Report (SAR) for accuracy. Some schools may have late deadlines or rolling admissions (an ongoing application timeline with no set deadline), so continue applying if necessary. Acceptance letters may start arriving this month, so now is the time to compare financial aid packages and plan for any work-study opportunities or loans. Regular Decision deadlines are typically around January 1 to mid-February.

February

In February, most colleges will have received your application and let you know. Review any updates and confirm that all materials have been received. Check your FAFSA status and make any necessary corrections. If you’ve applied to schools with ongoing admissions or have remaining applications, keep working on these tasks.

March

March is when you’ll begin receiving acceptance, rejection, and waitlist letters from colleges. Review your options carefully and take note of each college's financial aid packages, housing options, and other important factors. If you’re on a waitlist, consider reaching out to show your continued interest. Discuss your choices with family and mentors to help make your final decision.

April

In April, make your final decision about which college to attend. If you’ve been accepted to multiple schools, weigh all your options carefully. Consider revisiting campuses if needed to get a final feel for each one. Once you’ve made your decision, inform the colleges of your choice and send your first payment to claim your spot. Notify the other schools where you applied about your decision.

May

In May, wrap up your college plans by taking care of any remaining tasks. Send in your final high school transcript to the college you’re choosing, and complete any other paperwork needed. If you’ve taken Advanced Placement (AP) exams, make sure your scores are sent to your chosen college. Continue preparing for the transition to college by reviewing your orientation schedule and making any necessary arrangements for housing and financial aid. Remember to inform colleges of your decision by May 1.

Summer After Senior Year

Before you start college, make sure you’ve completed all pre-college requirements, such as health forms and orientation registration. This is also a great time to buy textbooks and other supplies. Take some time to relax and enjoy your summer before starting this exciting new chapter in your life!

By following this month-by-month guide, you’ll stay organized and well-prepared for each stage of the college application process. Remember, keeping track of deadlines and seeking support when needed will help you manage stress and find the college that’s the best fit for you. You've got this!