Senior Year Timeline and Tips
Stay on track with a detailed to-do list for your Senior Year. Each task is designed to keep you organized and prepared for what’s ahead. Expand the blocks to uncover expert tips, helpful resources, and step-by-step guidance to make sure you don’t miss a thing.
Meet with Your Counselor
Meet with your counselor and make sure your schedule includes classes that align with your goals and keep you on track academically. A strong finish can make a big difference in admissions decisions.
Continue Making College Visits
Keep exploring your options. Whether in person or virtual, college visits give you a real feel for campus life. Attend info sessions, ask questions, and picture yourself there.
Keep Track of Deadlines
Stay ahead by marking important dates such as early and regular decision application deadlines, financial aid webinars, scholarship deadlines, and test dates on your calendar now.
Gather Letters of Recommendation
Teachers and mentors write the best recommendation letters when they know your strengths and achievements. Give them plenty of time by asking early, and provide your resume or a list of accomplishments.
Complete and Submit College Applications
If you're aiming for Early Decision or Early Action, now is the time to focus. Make sure your college essays are polished and have a teacher, mentor, or parent review them for feedback.
Take Standardized Tests (If Needed)
If you're not completely satisfied with your SAT or ACT score, consider retaking it. Even a small improvement can strengthen your applications and open up more scholarship opportunities.
Scholarships
Finish up any scholarship applications you’re working on and submit them before the deadlines. Even smaller scholarships can add up and help reduce college costs.
Create a Study Plan
Enter your current score and goal score and Acely will create a plan that adapts to you. Get guidance on how much to practice each section of the exam and see areas where you could make up the most points. (SAT Plan Only)
Submit Regular Decision Applications
Make sure everything is in! Double-check that your essays, transcripts, and test scores are all submitted on time. Missing a deadline can delay your application or even hurt your chances.
Contact Colleges
After you’ve submitted your materials, double-check that everything made it to the right place. Some schools offer portals where you can track your application’s status, including test scores, transcripts, and recommendations.
Stay Focused on Grades
Your mid-year grades can make a big impact, so keep up the hard work. Colleges will be looking at how you’re performing, so maintaining or improving your grades is key. Make sure your counselor sends out your mid-year report.
Evaluate Offers
Once you start receiving your college acceptance letters, take time to review them carefully. Compare the financial aid packages to understand what each school is offering. Be sure to weigh both the academic fit and the financial fit.
Visit Campuses
If you haven’t visited your top-choice college yet, now’s the perfect time to schedule a campus tour before making your final decision. It will give you a feel for the environment and help you imagine what it would be like to be a student there.
Make Your Decision
By May 1, it’s time to officially commit to your college! Once you've made your decision, make sure to submit the enrollment form, deposit check, and signed financial-aid package. Don’t forget to let other schools know of your choice as well.
Take AP Exams
A solid score could give you a head start in college, saving time and money. Stay focused, review your notes, and take these exams seriously.
Join Our Discord Community
Connect with fellow Seniors and chat all things college. Discuss summer reading or compare packing lists.
Prepare for College
Make sure to send your final high school transcript to the college if required. Once that's done, it's time to focus on enrolling in your classes, filling out housing forms, and getting ready for orientation.
Organize Finances
As you get ready for college, it’s a great idea to set up a budget to manage your finances. Think about work-study opportunities, part-time jobs, and the cost of things you’ll need for college life like books and supplies.
Relax and Recharge
Take time to unwind and mentally prepare for the exciting journey ahead. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement and stress, but taking time to relax will help you mentally prepare for the new chapter.