1. Research potential colleges and compare their programs, costs, and scholarships
Research potential colleges and compare their programs, costs, and scholarships:
It is important for seniors to research the various colleges that interest them in order to find the best fit for them. This includes looking into the academic programs offered by each college in order to determine which one will offer the courses and degrees they are looking for Additionally, seniors should compare the associated costs and any potential scholarship opportunities that could help make college more affordable.
2. Visit the college campuses you are considering
After researching several colleges, seniors should consider visiting the campuses in order to get a firsthand feel for the atmosphere, faculty, student body, and other amenities offered by each school. This step is essential to making sure that the college of your choice is truly the best fit for you.
3. Take any required tests such as ACT or SAT
Most colleges require students to take either the ACT or SAT prior to submitting an application for admission. It’s important to register and prepare for these tests as early as possible in order to give yourself enough time to take them and submit your scores to the colleges you are applying for.
4. Begin applying for financial aid and scholarships
Financial aid and scholarships can help make college more affordable for many students. It is important to research and apply for any financial aid or scholarship opportunities available in order to get the most out of college without having to take on too much student loan debt
5. Start submitting applications to colleges of your choice
It’s important to start submitting your applications as early as possible, as some colleges have deadlines that must be met in order for applicants to be considered. Submitting an application late could mean missing out on a potential acceptance offer or even worse, not being accepted at all.
6. Request letters of recommendations from teachers/mentors
Many colleges require applicants to submit letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors as part of the application process. It is important to ask for these letters in advance, as they may take some time to receive and can have an impact on your acceptance into a college.
7. Gather necessary documents (transcripts, test scores, etc.) needed for application process
In order to complete an application for admission, seniors must often provide transcripts, test scores and other required documents that demonstrate their academic abilities and achievements. It is important to gather these materials well in advance of the submission deadline so that all information is ready when it’s time to submit.
8. Narrow down your list of schools based on acceptance offers
Once acceptance offers begin to come in, seniors should narrow down their list of colleges based on the best fit for them. This may include choosing a school with a better academic program or financial aid package than the others.
9. Consider signing up for a college prep course if available in your area
Although not necessary, signing up for a college prep course can be beneficial to helping seniors prepare for the transition from high school to college. These courses may include help with test taking tips, writing application essays and more.
10. Finalize enrollment forms upon receiving acceptance letter
Once a college acceptance offer is received, it’s time to begin the enrollment process. This may involve completing and submitting forms for housing, meal plans, student health insurance and more. It is important to understand all of these requirements so that you can ensure everything is in order when it’s time to arrive on campus.
11. Ensure you are familiar with the college's policies and procedures
It is important to be familiar with the college’s policies and procedures before arriving on campus. This includes any dress code, technology requirements or student conduct rules that are in place. Understanding these regulations ahead of time will help ensure a smooth transition when classes begin.
12. Be mindful of important deadlines for financial aid/scholarships, housing, etc.
It is important to be mindful of important deadlines when it comes to financial aid, scholarships, housing and more. Failing to meet deadlines could result in missing out on potential funds or not being able to secure a spot in the dorms. It is best to make sure everything is taken care of before classes start.
13. Make arrangements for transportation to and from the college campus
For some, getting to and from the college campus may be a challenge. If there are no local transportation options available, it is important to make arrangements for rides ahead of time so that you can get to class on time each day.
14. Attend pre-college orientation or open house events if offered by the school
Attending pre-college orientations or open house events can be a great way for seniors to get familiar with the college before classes begin. These events typically provide information about campus life, academics and more that can help make the transition from high school to college smoother.
15. Have a plan in place for financing your academic expenses
Before classes begin, it is important to have a plan in place for financing your academic expenses. This may include applying for scholarships, grants or student loans. It is also important to think about how you will handle the day-to-day costs of college such as housing, meals and books. Having a financial plan before arriving on campus can help ensure that you are prepared for any unexpected costs or emergencies.
16. Save copies of all completed applications and related documents
Finally, it is important to save copies of all completed applications and related documents. This includes any transcripts, test scores or recommendation letters that were sent in as part of the application process. Gathering these materials well in advance of the submission deadline so that all information is ready when it’s time to submit.
17. Stay organized and on track by maintaining a calendar with important dates and tasks
Staying organized is key to staying on top of tasks and deadlines. Maintaining a calendar with important dates and tasks can help seniors stay on track throughout the college application process. This may include creating reminders for when applications are due, scheduling visits to campus or setting aside time for studying for tests. Keeping organized will ensure that seniors have everything taken care of before classes start.