Junior Year

Fall Semester

• Double-check that you’re on track to graduate with all of the required classes and credits. You still have time to make adjustments.
• Take an SAT or ACT practice test. This will help you see areas in which you’re solid and those in which you could shore up your skills.
• Start your volunteer hours, if you haven’t already. Be sure to keep track of how many you’ve completed.
• Meet with your guidance counselor. Bring a list of your interests, skills, and talents. Consider taking a personality or career inventory on a site like 16personalities.com. Discuss possible college and career paths.

Spring Semester

• Talk to your family about any possible constraints on your post-graduation plans.
• Make a short list of schools to visit over the summer (virtually or in person).
• Begin drafting your personal statement. Regardless of where you’re applying, the prompts on the CommonApp will get you started.

Senior Year

Fall Semester

• Focus on your studies! This is the last semester of grades that colleges will see before making admissions decisions.
• Meet with your guidance counselor regularly — at least twice each semester.
• Apply to at least 3 to 5 schools, including one “reach” school. You never know!
• Submit the FAFSA.

Spring Semester

• Carefully consider all offers, especially those concerning financial aid. Make sure you’re factoring in the costs of living.
• Submit the FFAA and apply for Bright Futures.
• Check that all fees and outstanding dues, library fines, lost textbook charges, etc., are settled with your school.