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Let’s Prepare for Your College: A Senior Year Checklist for You

Let’s Prepare for Your College: A Senior Year Checklist for You

Senior year is an exciting and crucial time for high school students, especially for those preparing for college. As the final year of high school begins, it's essential to stay organized and proactive to ensure a smooth transition to higher education. At EdmunHigh, we've compiled a comprehensive checklist to help seniors navigate this important year and stay on track for college admission.


September: Start Strong


  1. Meet with Your Counselor: Schedule an appointment with your school counselor to discuss your college plans, review your transcript, and ensure you are meeting all graduation requirements.

  2. Finalize Your College List: Narrow down your list of potential colleges and universities. Consider factors such as location, size, programs offered, and campus culture.

  3. Register for Standardized Tests: If you haven't already, register for the SAT, ACT, or any other required standardized tests. Make note of registration deadlines and test dates.

October: Get Application-Ready


  1. Attend College Fairs: Take advantage of college fairs and information sessions to learn more about your prospective schools. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and gather information.

  2. Start Your Applications: Begin working on your college applications, including any required essays. Be mindful of early decision and early action deadlines.

  3. Request Letters of Recommendation: Ask teachers, counselors, or mentors for letters of recommendation. Provide them with any necessary forms and deadlines well in advance.

November: Keep Up the Momentum


  1. Complete Financial Aid Forms: Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any other required financial aid forms. Research scholarship opportunities and apply for those that match your profile.

  2. Submit Early Applications: If you're applying for early decision or early action, ensure your applications are submitted by the deadlines. Keep copies of all submitted materials.

December: Stay Focused


  1. Prepare for Midterms: Keep your grades up by preparing thoroughly for midterm exams. Colleges will review your senior year grades, so it's essential to maintain strong academic performance.

  2. Finalize Applications: Complete and submit regular decision applications. Double-check that all required materials, including transcripts and test scores, are sent to your chosen colleges.

January-February: Stay on Track


  1. Follow Up on Applications: Confirm that your applications have been received and are complete. Contact admissions offices if you have any concerns or need to provide additional information.

  2. Plan Campus Visits: If possible, visit the campuses of the colleges to which you've applied. This can help you make a more informed decision when it comes time to choose.

March-April: Make Decisions


  1. Review Acceptance Letters: As acceptance letters start arriving, review your options carefully. Consider factors such as financial aid packages, academic programs, and campus life.

  2. Attend Accepted Students Day: Many colleges offer events for accepted students. Attend these to get a feel for the campus and meet potential future classmates.

May-June: Prepare for Transition


  1. Make Your Decision: By May 1st, decide which college you will attend and notify the school. Submit any required deposits and complete housing and registration forms.

  2. Celebrate Your Achievements: Enjoy your final months of high school and celebrate your accomplishments with friends and family. Attend graduation and any end-of-year events.

By following this comprehensive checklist, seniors at EdmunHigh can ensure they are well-prepared for their transition to college, making their final year of high school a productive and memorable experience.

This senior year checklist is designed to help you stay on track, manage deadlines, and ensure that you're fully prepared for the exciting journey ahead. From applications to financial aid, we've got you covered every step of the way.

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