College Counseling

College Application Timeline

• 

  Grade 9

  • Focus on academics:

    Develop a strong foundation in core subjects.

  • Get involved:

    Join clubs, sports teams, or other extracurricular activities that interest you.

  • Start exploring:

    Research various career fields and college majors to get a sense of your interests and goals.

  • Build good study habits:

    Develop time management and organizational skills to succeed in high school.

• 

  Grade 10

  • Continue academic growth:

    Challenge yourself with more advanced courses when appropriate.

  • Deepen extracurricular involvement:

    Take on leadership roles or join new activities that align with your interests.

  • Start preparing for language proficiency tests and standardized tests:

    Familiarize yourself with the PSAT and consider taking practice tests or prep courses at Khan Academy.

  • Research colleges:

    Begin compiling a list of colleges that appeal to you based on factors such as location, size, academic programs, and campus culture.

• 

  Grade 11

  • Maintain academic excellence:

    Continue taking rigorous courses and keep your GPA high.

  • Refine extracurricular activities:

    Focus on activities that demonstrate your passions and commitment.

  • Take standardized tests:

    Register and prepare for the SAT/ACT.

  • Visit college campuses:

    Attend college fairs, open houses, or schedule campus tours to get a feel for the schools on your list.

  • Narrow down your college list:

    Identify the top schools that best align with your academic goals, interests, and personal preferences.

  • Seek recommendations:

    Begin identifying teachers, counselors, or mentors who can write strong recommendation letters for you.

• Grade 12

  • Maintain strong academic performance:

    Colleges will review your senior year grades, so keep up the hard work and continue taking rigorous courses.

  • Finalize your college list:

    Refine your list of target, reach, and foundation schools based on your preferences, goals, and admission chances.

  • Complete college applications:

    Pay close attention to deadlines and ensure all application components (essays, transcripts, test scores, and recommendation letters) are submitted on time.

  

  • Apply for financial aid:

    Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and/or the CSS Profile as required. Research any additional financial aid opportunities provided by the colleges you're applying to.

  • Research and apply for scholarships:

    Look for scholarships offered by various organizations, foundations, or colleges themselves, and submit applications as needed.

  • Prepare for interviews:

    Some colleges may require or offer optional interviews as part of the application process. Practice your interview skills and be ready to discuss your experiences, interests, and future goals.

  • Review admission decisions:

    As decisions come in, evaluate your acceptances and any financial aid packages offered. If waitlisted, follow the college's instructions and consider submitting additional materials if requested.

  • Compare financial aid packages:

    Review and compare financial aid offers from the colleges that have accepted you.

  • Make your decision:

    Choose the college that best suits your academic, financial, and personal needs.

  • Inform your chosen college:

    Confirm your enrollment by submitting your deposit, and notify other colleges that you have decided not to attend.