Hi everyone, I'm a junior and I'm wondering when I should start preparing for the college application process. What timeline should I follow to make sure I'm on track? Thanks in advance!
Hi there! It's great that you're thinking about the college application process early. As a junior, you're at the perfect time to start preparing. Here's a general timeline that you can follow to make sure you're on track:
- Spring of Junior Year: Begin researching colleges and creating a list of schools you are interested in. Start preparing for standardized tests (SAT/ACT) if you haven't already.
- Summer before Senior Year: Visit colleges if possible and narrow down your list. Begin working on your college essays, and start asking teachers for recommendation letters.
- Fall of Senior Year: Take the SAT/ACT if you haven't already, or retake if necessary. Submit your college applications (Early Decision/Early Action deadlines are usually in November, while Regular Decision deadlines are typically in January).
- Winter of Senior Year: Complete the FAFSA and any other financial aid applications. Keep an eye out for any scholarship opportunities.
- Spring of Senior Year: Wait for your college decisions to arrive, and make your final choice by May 1st, which is the National College Decision Day.
Remember that this timeline is just a guideline, but it should help you stay on track. Good luck!
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