Senior Year
This is it…your last chance to prepare for college. Make the most of it; you’re beginning the rest of your life.
Apply for scholarships
Follow NextStudent’s Scholarship Search advice. Investigate all options; leave no stone unturned.
Take the SAT and/or ACT
In the fall of your senior year, sign up for the SAT and/or ACT exams.
Narrow your college choices
Pick 3 – 6 schools, including your dream school, a "reach" school (one that would demand your very best effort), and one or two safe schools that you know will accept you based on grades and scores.
Prepare the college application
You’ll need a list of club memberships, sports, and other activities, as well as honors and awards you have received. If you’re asked to prepare an essay, be sincere and be yourself; don’t write what you think the college wants to read.
Get recommendations
Ask teachers, employers, and community members to focus on sharing his or her view of who you are.
Don’t miss deadlines
Increasing numbers of students are applying for early decision. Submit applications in advance of the actual deadline.
Complete your FAFSA
This all-important form determines your eligibility for federal aid.
Attend college orientations
This is an important introduction to your school.
This is an excerpt from Get Cash for College: Real Advice for Real Results, our exclusive guide to helping high school students and their parents prepare for college academically and financially.
High School Students
» Freshman Year
» Sophomore Year
» Junior Year
» Senior Year
» What You Need
Financial Aid Advisor
» Financial Aid Advisor: The Guided Tour
» First Step: Completing The FAFSA
» The Financial Aid Calendar
» The Financial Aid Process
» Know Your Options