Senior Year Checklist

A senior year checklist is important to have because it can help ensure that all the necessary tasks and items are completed in order to graduate. It can also help to make sure that seniors are taking advantage of all the opportunities and resources available to them during their last year of high school.

Details for Senior Year Checklist

1. Apply to colleges and universities

Seniors should begin applying to colleges and universities as early as possible, since many schools have deadlines in early January or February. It's important to research different schools and programs, and to make sure that all the application requirements are met.

2. Research scholarships and financial aid opportunities

There are many scholarships and financial aid opportunities available, and it's important to research as many as possible. The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the most common way to apply for financial aid, and can be submitted starting in January of the senior year.

3. Take the SAT and/or ACT exams

Most colleges require either the SAT or ACT exams for admission. These exams can be taken in the fall or spring of the senior year.

4. Write college essays

Many colleges require an essay as part of the application process. Essays can be about any topic, and should be well-written and thoughtful.

5. Interview with prospective colleges

Colleges often conduct interviews with prospective students to get a better sense of their personality and interests. Interviews usually take place in the fall or winter months.

6. Register for classes

Generally, seniors should register for their classes in late March or early April. It's important to meet with a guidance counselor to make sure that all degree requirements will be met.

7. Order transcripts and diploma

Transcripts must be ordered several weeks before graduation, and diplomas can take up to 8 weeks to arrive after graduation. Make sure to allow enough time for both of these items to be processed.

FAQ for Senior Year Checklist

1. How do I apply to colleges and universities?

There are many ways to apply to colleges and universities, and the process can vary depending on the school. The most common way to apply is by using the Common Application, which is available on the website of each school.

2. How do I research scholarships and financial aid opportunities?

There are many ways to research scholarships and financial aid opportunities. The best way to start is by looking online or by contacting the financial aid office of the colleges or universities you're interested in.

3. What are the SAT and ACT exams?

The SAT and ACT exams are standardized tests that are used for admission into college. Most colleges require either one or both of these exams for admission.

4. What should I write about in my college essays?

College essays can be about any topic, but they should be well-written and thoughtful. Some students choose to write about their experiences or their goals for the future.

5. What is a guidance counselor?

A guidance counselor is a counselor who helps students with choosing a college, filling out applications, and meeting degree requirements. Guidance counselors are usually available at high schools to help seniors with their final year of high school.

6. How do I register for classes?

Most colleges allow seniors to register for classes in late March or early April. A guidance counselor can help ensure you're on track to meeting all degree requirements.

7. When should I order transcripts and diploma?

Please order your transcripts and diplomas well in advance of graduation. Transcripts may take several weeks to process, and diplomas can take up to 8 weeks.

In Summary

A senior year checklist can be very useful for ensuring that all the necessary steps are taken during the final year of high school. Some of the important things to avoid during senior year include not ordering transcripts and diploma in time, not registering for classes properly, and not researching scholarships and financial aid opportunities.