Pre-College Calendar

Freshman & Sophomore Years -

• Think about career possibilities and explore different occupations. Seriously consider planning your career. Select a few possibilities by cluster. Example: Business, Health, Technology, etc.
• Most importantly, now is the time for you to review your high school coursework and activities. Keep in mind that colleges will look for challenging coursework, a good grade point average, and extracurricular activities such as sports, volunteer work, and church or community involvement. (These activities are advantageous when applying for scholarships as well.)
• Study and register to take the PSAT. This test is nationally given during the month of October. This will help you prepare for the ACT and SAT that you will take as a junior or senior.

Juniors -

• Start looking through publications, college catalogs, websites and guidebooks.
• Put together a list of 10 colleges that you would like to attend. Plan to apply to 3-5 schools.
• Study and prepare to take the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test / National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test).
• Attend college fairs, financial aid sessions and 'parent nights' in your local area. Most schools will hold 'Open Houses' and 'Information Nights' for you to learn more about their programs.
• In January and February, start visiting colleges and learning admission requirements.
• Seriously start investigation private scholarships and other student aid programs.
• Explore the catalogs of 3-5 schools that interest you the most. Consider an overnight visit or sit in on some classes.
• Take the ACT and/or SAT. This is also the time to schedule any AP exams if you will be pursing Advanced Placement.
• If possible, use your summer job to save some money for college costs.

Seniors -Fall of Senior Year

• Review your career plans and decide which type of school is right for you. Schedule remaining college visits.
• Meet with admissions representatives who are visiting your school.
• Make a list of test names, dates and fees like the SAT and ACT at least six weeks before scores much be submitted to colleges. Register to take the exam.
• Ask teachers, guidance counselors and employers for letters of recommendation for your activities and employment.
• Work on application essays. Explore financial aid options. Begin preparing your college applications.
• Apply for outside funding. Submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to the processor as soon after January 1 as possible.
• Rank your finalized list of colleges and apply at several on your list. This is important in case one school fills early. Watch the mail for your acceptance letters.
• Once you've decided on your choice of college, notify the others that you've applied to. This is important because they hold housing for you.
• Finalize summer school or summer job plans.

Good luck in your college planning and remember an important telephone number: Educaid @ 1-800-EDUCAID