Senior Year College Application Checklist
Published on: by SupertutorTV
- Introduction
- Introduction and background of the speaker - Brooke, an SAT and ACT tutor and college consultant
- Summer/Fall Season Checklist for Seniors
- Make a college list with safety, fit, and reach schools
- Organize deadlines in calendar and create a spreadsheet for application deadlines
- Create documents for college essays and start writing them
- Prepare and take required tests like SAT, ACT, and subject tests
- Discuss college finances with parents and explore financial aid options like FAFSA
- Identify and research scholarships for college funding
- Clean up social media accounts for college applications
- Ask for letters of recommendation from teachers early and submit transcripts
- Visit colleges in person or virtually to narrow down choices
- Submit applications and materials for college by deadlines
- Winter Season Checklist for Seniors
- Spring Season Checklist for Seniors
- Continuously stay involved in activities, maintain grades, and have fun throughout senior year
- Highlights
- FAQ
- See Also
Introduction
Are you a senior in high school and wondering what kind of things you need to do to make sure you are ready to apply to and get into college this year? In this video, I will go through my senior checklist to help you navigate the college application process. I have over a decade of experience helping students get into their dream schools like Stanford and Harvard.
Introduction and background of the speaker - Brooke, an SAT and ACT tutor and college consultant
Are you a senior in high school and wondering what kind of things you need to do to make sure that you are ready to apply to and get into college this year? If so, in this video, Brooke, an SAT and ACT prep tutor and college consultant with over a decade and a half of experience, provides a comprehensive senior checklist to help students navigate the college application process. Brooke has successfully guided students to their dream schools, including prestigious institutions like Stanford and Harvard.
Brooke emphasizes the importance of starting early by creating a college list that includes safety schools, fit schools, and reach schools. She offers tips on getting organized by setting application deadlines, creating a spreadsheet for tracking deadlines, and organizing essays in preparation for the application process. Additionally, Brooke recommends starting to write college essays during the summer to allow time for brainstorming and revisions. She also advises students to schedule and prepare for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, as well as any required subject tests or exams for international students.
In the later stages of the senior year checklist, Brooke suggests discussing college finances with parents, filling out the FAFSA, researching scholarships, cleaning up social media profiles, requesting letters of recommendation, and ensuring that transcripts are sent to colleges. As application deadlines approach in the fall, students are encouraged to submit their materials promptly and prepare for potential responses from early decision or early action applications. During the winter, students may receive decision letters and may need to send additional applications or letters of continued interest. In the spring, students are advised to consider college offers, negotiate financial aid packages, and submit necessary deposits on time. Throughout the year, Brooke stresses the importance of staying involved in activities, maintaining strong academic performance, and enjoying the senior year experience.
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Try it nowSummer/Fall Season Checklist for Seniors
Brooke divides the senior year checklist into different seasons, starting with summer/fall as a critical period for college preparation. She underscores the significance of making a college list that includes safety, fit, and reach schools to ensure a balanced selection of potential institutions. Brooke provides detailed steps for getting organized by setting application deadlines, creating essay documents, and beginning the writing process early. She recommends students take standardized tests and prepare adequately, as well as engaging in discussions with parents about college finances and the FAFSA application.
In the fall season, Brooke advises students to submit their college applications and accompanying materials, guiding them through the various checklists and requirements for each application. As winter approaches, students may receive decision letters, potentially leading to waitlist or deferral situations. Brooke suggests writing letters of continued interest and submitting additional applications by specified deadlines. Moving into the spring season, students are encouraged to research and evaluate college offers, negotiate financial aid packages, and submit necessary deposits by the designated dates.
Throughout the year, Brooke emphasizes the importance of staying actively involved in extracurricular activities, maintaining academic performance, and enjoying the senior year journey. By following the comprehensive checklist and taking proactive steps at each stage, seniors can navigate the college application process effectively and make informed decisions about their future education.
Make a college list with safety, fit, and reach schools
Brooke stresses the significance of creating a well-rounded college list that includes safety, fit, and reach schools to cover a spectrum of potential options for students. Safety schools are those with higher acceptance rates, fit schools cater to students within their academic range, and reach schools represent higher-tier institutions that may be more competitive. By strategically selecting colleges based on these categories, students can create a balanced list that aligns with their academic profile and aspirations.
To assist students in making a college list, Brooke offers insights into the process of researching and identifying suitable institutions. She recommends considering factors such as academic programs, campus culture, location, and extracurricular opportunities when evaluating potential colleges. By conducting thorough research and seeking guidance from counselors or mentors, students can compile a list of colleges that align with their academic and personal preferences.
By following Brooke's guidance on creating a college list with safety, fit, and reach schools, students can enhance their chances of finding the right college match. This strategic approach to college selection ensures that students consider a diverse range of options and maximize their chances of acceptance at institutions that align with their goals and aspirations.
Organize deadlines in calendar and create a spreadsheet for application deadlines
One of the essential steps for seniors in high school is to organize deadlines in a calendar and create a spreadsheet for application deadlines. This includes researching the deadlines for each college on the college list and noting down any specific requirements or scholarship deadlines. By organizing the deadlines in a calendar and creating a spreadsheet, students can stay on top of their application timeline and ensure that they submit their applications on time.
In addition to organizing deadlines, creating a spreadsheet for application deadlines can also help students track important dates such as early decision deadlines, early application deadlines, and general application deadlines. By having a detailed overview of all the deadlines in one place, students can prioritize their application tasks and allocate sufficient time for each step of the application process. This organization can help reduce stress and ensure that all application materials are submitted on time.
Overall, organizing deadlines in a calendar and creating a spreadsheet for application deadlines is a crucial step in the college application process. By staying organized and on top of deadlines, students can manage their time effectively, prioritize tasks, and submit their applications in a timely manner.
Create documents for college essays and start writing them
Another important task for seniors in high school is to create documents for college essays and start writing them. This process involves setting up essay documents for each college on the college list and brainstorming ideas for essay topics. By creating separate documents for each essay, students can focus on crafting personalized and well-written responses to the essay prompts.
Writing college essays is a significant part of the application process, as it allows students to showcase their unique personalities, experiences, and aspirations. By starting to write essays early, students can take the time to revise and refine their responses, seek feedback from teachers or counselors, and ensure that their essays effectively convey their strengths and motivations. Starting early also gives students the flexibility to work on multiple drafts and make necessary revisions before the application deadlines.
In conclusion, creating documents for college essays and beginning the writing process is a critical step for seniors preparing to apply to college. By dedicating time to brainstorming, drafting, and revising essays, students can present themselves in the best light to admissions committees and increase their chances of standing out among other applicants.
Prepare and take required tests like SAT, ACT, and subject tests
Preparing for and taking required tests like the SAT, ACT, and subject tests is a key task for seniors in high school. This process involves setting up a study schedule, registering for test dates, and familiarizing oneself with the format and content of each test. By preparing in advance, students can build confidence, improve their test-taking skills, and aim for their target scores.
The SAT, ACT, and subject tests are important components of college applications, as they provide admissions committees with standardized measures of academic achievement and college readiness. It is essential for students to perform well on these tests to enhance their college admission prospects and qualify for scholarships or honors programs. Taking practice tests, reviewing test content, and seeking additional preparation resources can help students achieve their desired scores.
In summary, preparing for and taking required tests like the SAT, ACT, and subject tests is a critical step for seniors getting ready to apply to college. By dedicating time and effort to test preparation, students can demonstrate their academic abilities and fulfill the testing requirements of their target colleges.
Discuss college finances with parents and explore financial aid options like FAFSA
It is crucial for high school seniors to have conversations with their parents regarding college finances. This involves discussing how much parents are willing to contribute, exploring financial aid options like FAFSA, and understanding the overall cost of attending college. By having an open dialogue about finances, students can better plan for their future and make informed decisions about their college choices.
Additionally, filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a fundamental step in securing financial assistance for college. The FAFSA opens on October 1st and has a deadline of February 1st. It is essential for students and their parents to gather all necessary documents, such as tax returns, in order to complete the form accurately. By understanding the financial aid options available, students can alleviate some of the financial burden associated with higher education.
Furthermore, discussing college finances with parents can help students create a budget, explore scholarship opportunities, and make informed decisions about where to apply. By taking proactive steps towards understanding the financial aspects of college, seniors can alleviate stress and focus on their academic and extracurricular pursuits.
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Try it nowIdentify and research scholarships for college funding
High school seniors should proactively seek out scholarship opportunities to help fund their college education. Researching and identifying scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education. Students can explore various resources, such as online scholarship databases, university websites, and community organizations, to find relevant scholarships.
It is essential for seniors to carefully read the requirements and deadlines for each scholarship and ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria before applying. Some scholarships may require essays, letters of recommendation, or proof of community service, so students should start the application process early to meet all deadlines. Additionally, students can reach out to their school counselors or college advisors for assistance in finding and applying for scholarships.
By actively seeking out and applying for scholarships, high school seniors can increase their chances of receiving financial aid for college. Scholarships not only provide financial support but also recognize students for their achievements, leadership abilities, and unique talents. With diligent research and a well-organized approach to scholarship applications, seniors can secure additional funding to pursue their higher education goals.
Clean up social media accounts for college applications
As high school seniors embark on their college application journey, it is essential to clean up their social media presence. Colleges and universities may review applicants' social media accounts to gain insight into their character, behavior, and online activities. Cleaning up social media accounts involves removing inappropriate content, setting profiles to private, and ensuring that online presence reflects a positive image.
Students should conduct a thorough review of their social media accounts, including posts, comments, and photos, to delete any content that may be deemed unprofessional or controversial. Admissions officers may form opinions based on applicants' digital footprint, so maintaining a clean and professional online image is crucial during the college application process.
By cleaning up their social media accounts, high school seniors can present themselves in a positive light to college admissions committees. This proactive approach demonstrates maturity, responsibility, and respect for the college application process. Students should consider the impact of their online presence on their college prospects and take steps to ensure that their social media profiles align with their academic and personal values.
Ask for letters of recommendation from teachers early and submit transcripts
As a senior in high school, it is crucial to ask for letters of recommendation from teachers early on in the college application process. These letters play a significant role in showcasing your character and abilities to college admission committees. By approaching teachers early for these recommendations, you give them ample time to craft thoughtful and personalized letters that can enhance your application.
In addition to requesting letters of recommendation, it is essential to submit your transcripts to colleges in a timely manner. Transcripts provide a comprehensive overview of your academic performance throughout high school, including grades, courses taken, and extracurricular involvement. Ensuring that your transcripts are sent to colleges promptly can help streamline the application process and demonstrate your commitment to academic excellence.
By proactively requesting letters of recommendation and submitting transcripts early, you are setting yourself up for success in the college application process. These steps are foundational in presenting a well-rounded and compelling application to colleges, showcasing both your academic achievements and personal characteristics that make you a strong candidate for admission.
Visit colleges in person or virtually to narrow down choices
Visiting colleges, either in person or virtually, is a crucial step in the college selection process. By touring campuses and engaging with faculty, staff, and students, you can gain valuable insights into the college's offerings, culture, and environment. These visits can help you narrow down your choices and determine which colleges align best with your academic and personal preferences.
In-person visits allow you to experience campus life firsthand, attend classes, interact with current students, and explore the surrounding community. Virtual visits, on the other hand, offer convenience and accessibility, allowing you to explore colleges remotely through virtual tours, information sessions, and online resources. Both types of visits provide valuable information to help you make informed decisions about where to apply.
Whether you visit colleges in person or virtually, taking the time to explore different campuses can greatly impact your college application process. These visits offer a unique opportunity to envision yourself as a student at each college, assess the campus culture, and ultimately make an informed decision about where to submit your applications.
Submit applications and materials for college by deadlines
Submitting applications and materials for college by deadlines is a critical step in the college application process. Meeting application deadlines demonstrates your ability to plan, organize, and follow through on important tasks, qualities that are highly valued by college admission committees. Missing deadlines can jeopardize your chances of admission and limit your opportunities for acceptance.
To ensure that you submit your applications on time, it is essential to create a comprehensive timeline that outlines all application deadlines, including those for general applications, early decision, early action, and specific programs or scholarships. This timeline can help you stay on track and prioritize tasks to meet each deadline efficiently.
In addition to completing and submitting applications, it is important to compile all required materials, such as essays, test scores, letters of recommendation, and transcripts, well in advance of the submission deadline. Organizing these materials and checking them off a centralized checklist can help you manage the application process effectively and avoid last-minute rushes or oversights.
Winter Season Checklist for Seniors
As a senior in high school, the winter season is a crucial time in the college application process. This is the time to take action if you have been deferred or waitlisted at any universities. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to write a letter of continued interest to the schools to express your continued enthusiasm and commitment. This letter can make a difference in potentially changing the decision of the admissions committee in your favor.
Additionally, winter is the time to ensure that all your remaining college applications are submitted by the January deadlines. Make a checklist of all the schools you plan to apply to and their respective deadlines. It is crucial to stay organized during this period to avoid missing any application submission dates. Double-check all the requirements for each application, including essays, letters of recommendation, and official test scores, to ensure a smooth submission process.
Moreover, during the winter season, it is essential to keep track of any communication from the colleges you have applied to. Be proactive in responding to any requests for additional information or interviews. Stay updated on the status of your applications and any correspondence from the admissions offices. By staying on top of these tasks during the winter season, you can navigate the college application process with confidence and diligence.
Spring Season Checklist for Seniors
As a senior in high school, spring is a crucial time to evaluate the college offers you have received and make a decision on which institution to attend. It is essential to research and consider all offers thoroughly, comparing factors such as financial aid packages, program offerings, and campus culture. If necessary, you can also negotiate financial aid with the institution to ensure that the cost of attendance is manageable for you and your family.
Additionally, if you find yourself on a waitlist for a preferred school, it is important to attend any schools that are higher on your list. Visiting these institutions can provide you with a better understanding of their campus environment and academic offerings, helping you make an informed decision if you ultimately need to choose an alternative school. It is also crucial to submit your deposit on time to secure your spot at the institution you plan to attend, even if you are hopeful for acceptance off a waitlist.
Overall, the spring season for seniors is a time of decision-making and finalizing plans for the next chapter of your academic journey. By carefully weighing college offers, attending possible backup schools, and submitting necessary deposits, you can ensure a smooth transition to higher education and set yourself up for success in the future.
Continuously stay involved in activities, maintain grades, and have fun throughout senior year
As a senior in high school, it is crucial to stay actively involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, and leadership roles to continue building a strong resume for college applications. Admissions officers look for well-rounded students who demonstrate initiative and passion outside of the classroom. This is also a great way to showcase your unique interests and skills to make your application stand out among the rest.
In addition to staying involved in activities, it is equally important to maintain good grades throughout your senior year. Colleges often consider senior year grades, especially the first semester, when reviewing applications. Keeping your grades up shows your continued dedication to academics and can positively impact your chances of acceptance. Make sure to prioritize studying, completing assignments on time, and seeking help if needed to achieve your academic goals.
While staying active in activities and maintaining grades are essential, don't forget to have fun during your senior year. Celebrate your achievements, spend time with friends, and enjoy the final year of high school. Balancing academic responsibilities with social activities is key to a fulfilling senior year experience. Remember, this is a time to cherish and create lasting memories before embarking on the next chapter of your academic journey.
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Try it nowHighlights
- Creating a well-rounded college list with safety, fit, and reach schools
- Organizing deadlines and documents for college applications
- Starting early on writing essays and seeking feedback
- Preparing for standardized tests and researching financial aid options
- Negotiating financial aid offers and making informed decisions about college choices
FAQ
A: A college list should include safety, fit, and reach schools. Research each school's admission rates and programs to determine if they are a good fit for you.
A: It's recommended to start writing college essays early, during the summer if possible. This allows time for brainstorming, drafting, and revising to create strong essays.
A: Set up a test date for the SAT or ACT if you haven't taken them yet. Create a study plan and utilize resources like online prep courses to improve your scores.
A: Explore scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs to fund your college education. Fill out the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal aid.
A: If you receive multiple financial aid offers, you can contact the colleges to discuss your needs and potentially negotiate for better aid packages. Be honest and provide any necessary documentation to support your case.
See Also
Big Changes to the SAT Program
Do's and Don'ts of the ACT Essay
Understanding the June SAT Score Controversy