Application Calendar

Below is a high-level timeline for the college application process. Depending upon the schools to which you apply, your personal timeline could look much different. You should also incorporate the items below into your own timeline based on other things going on in your life. 

Freshman Year

·       Start getting involved in activities, both inside and outside of school. Choose activities that you will enjoy—and don’t choose to be involved in an activity simply because you think it will look good on your resume! 

·       Take the toughest classes you can while still being able to maintain solid grades.  Taking difficult classes now prepares you for more advanced classes down the road.

·       Find a summer activity you can be proud of such as debate camp, volunteering, tennis, or starting your own neighborhood business.  At the same time, be sure to get some rest and relaxation!   

·       Grades, grades, grades!

Sophomore Year

·       Take the PSAT, primarily as practice for taking the test again during your junior year (as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test).

·       Continue to involve yourself in courses, activities, and summer programs that will make you a more desirable college applicant. Begin to focus harder on the areas in which you enjoy the most.

·       Grades, grades, grades!

Junior Year

First semester

·       Take a leadership role in your activities, if possible.

·       Take the PSAT.

·       Grades, grades, grades!

Second semester

·       Begin thinking about colleges. Visit some schools.

·       Prepare for the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, and/or ACT.

·       This is arguably the most important semester for grades. Also, don't neglect your activities.

Senior Year

First semester

·       Spend time in the summer thinking about admissions essay topics.

·       Touch base with your high school guidance counselor. 

·       Visit more colleges and universities.   

·       Complete college applications.

·       Decide whether you want to apply Early Decision at any schools (usually November 1 or November 15 deadlines).

·       If necessary, retake the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, and/or ACT.

·       Finalize recommendations from teachers.

·       Prepare and mail applications. Focus on sending out perfect applications!

·       Don't forget about grades—many schools will ask for a grade update in January.

Second semester

·       Apply for financial aid (FAFSA and CSS/Profile) no later than February 1^st. 

·       Wait patiently to hear back from the colleges and universities to which you applied. 

·       If necessary, deal with waitlist letters.

·       Choose a college!

·       Review financial aid award letters and research financing options. 

·       Enjoy the rest of your senior year.