If you’re a high school junior or senior, you’re likely in the process of applying to colleges. The college application process can be overwhelming, but by following a timeline of key tasks, you can stay organized and ensure a seamless application process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you stay on track.
January–April of your junior year
During this period, you should meet with your school’s college counselor and research college websites to ensure that you’re on track to meet all academic and testing requirements for your schools of interest. You should also plan your ACT or SAT test dates with the goal of achieving scores you’re happy with by the end of the summer before your senior year. Additionally, it’s time to start your college search and plan college visits.
May of your junior year
This is the time to study for the ACT or SAT and request letters of recommendation from your teachers or other mentors who know you well. Start thinking about who you’d like to ask for a letter of recommendation and consider the requirements of each school you plan to apply to.
June–August between your junior and senior years
During this period, you should take your final ACT or SAT and start working on your personal statement drafts or Common App Essay. It’s also a good time to start working on your college applications and open all application accounts, such as the Common App or Coalition App.
September of your senior year
During this period, you should finalize your Common App Essay and your school list. Request that all standardized test scores, such as ACT, AP, and SAT, be sent to the schools on your list. Check in with your recommendation letter writers about the status of their letters.
October of your senior year
During this period, financial aid applications (FAFSA and the California Dream Act) officially open. Keep working on your college applications and finish personal statement drafts. Consider showing them to at least three people for feedback.
November of your senior year
During this period, you should apply for financial aid and keep working on your college applications. Consider early action or early decision school acceptances if you’re interested.
December of your senior year
During this period, finalize and submit applications to regular decision schools. Consider early action or early decision school acceptances. December is the last month to take and submit your SAT/ACT to universities. Check your email regularly for updates.
January–February of your senior year
During this period, complete admissions interviews whenever offered and search and apply for college scholarships.
March of your senior year
During this period, the last day to complete the FAFSA is March 2nd. Keep searching for scholarships and consider regular decision acceptances. Attend second look and admitted student weekends.
April of your senior year
During this period, research your college options and visit if possible. Keep searching for scholarships.
May of your senior year
During this period, send official transcripts and AP exam reports to the college you’re attending. Pay a deposit to the college you’re attending and keep checking your email regularly for updates.
June of your senior year/Summer before College
During this period, notify your recommenders about the outcomes of your applications and thank them for their support. If you’re living away from home, secure housing early. Register for classes and prepare for the exciting adventure that awaits you in college.
By following this comprehensive college application timeline, you can stay organized and on track throughout your junior and senior years. Preparing early and meeting deadlines can make all the difference in ensuring a seamless college application process.
Best of luck on your journey to college!
