"Applying to and visiting schools is a large financial and time commitment. To narrow down your choices, make a list of the characteristics that are most important to you (e.g., small or big, private or public).”
—Kenneth Higgins, director of undergraduate admissions at Sacred Heart University
FALL
- Research possible career paths.
- Gear up for ACT/SAT with Total Reader and Naviance Test Prep.
- Get a jump on graduation requirements with Course Planner.
- Keep track of summer volunteer work with intelliVol.
FALL
- Take the PSAT/NMSQT in October.
- Use SuperMatch® to discover your college must-haves.
- Search virtual campus tours and videos on YouTube.
- Start researching college costs and financial aid.
- Get test-ready with Family Connection’s Naviance Test Prep.
- Make the most of campus tours!
- Take SAT/ACT pre-tests.
- Schedule senior year classes with your counselor.
- Scope out colleges’ social media pages.
- Prep for AP exams.
- Plan for summer jobs and internships.
- Continue campus visits and get ready for senior year!
FALL
- Register for entrance exams.
- Request letters of recommendation.
- Narrow down your list of top schools.
- Set reminders for important forms and deadlines.
- Scour local and national financial aid sources.
- Complete the FAFSA at fafsa.ed.gov.
- Complete any early applications by November 1.
- Have test scores sent to schools on your short list.
- Start drafting personal essays.
- Save copies of all forms before sending.
- Send completed applications by each deadline.
- Practice for interviews using apps such as LikeLive.
- After filing the FAFSA, watch your inbox for the Student Aid Report.
- Search for additional funds at free sites like finaid.org.
- Update the SAR as needed.
- Check that each prospective school has received your materials.
- Compare all financial aid/acceptance packages by mid-April.
- Take last-minute campus tours where possible.
- Make your final decision!
- Make sure final transcripts are sent to your chosen school.
- Have a great summer, and get ready for a life-changing college experience!
“It's important to visit all of your top schools to get a feel for how you fit in the environment. If you have older friends or siblings, take advantage of the opportunity to get a taste of the college life.”
—Amy Ricci, director of student activities at Sacred Heart University
