Could someone provide a general timeline for important milestones in high school - like when to take the SAT/ACT, when to start researching colleges, and when to apply for scholarships? I want to make sure I'm on track and not missing any opportunities.
Absolutely! Here's a general timeline for important high school milestones:
Freshman Year:
1. Focus on your academics and maintaining good grades.
2. Begin exploring extracurricular activities and find a few that genuinely interest you.
3. Start developing good study habits and time management skills.
Sophomore Year:
1. Continue pursuing your extracurriculars and consider taking on leadership roles.
2. Begin preparing for the PSAT, as it can qualify you for National Merit Scholarships in your junior year.
3. Explore the types of colleges and fields you might be interested in pursuing.
4. Research summer programs or internships to deepen your interests and experiences.
Junior Year:
1. Take the PSAT in October to qualify for National Merit Scholarships.
2. Begin preparing for the SAT/ACT, aiming to take your first exam in the spring.
3. Research colleges more in-depth, noting their admission requirements and deadlines.
4. Plan visits to colleges or attend virtual campus tours and college fairs.
5. Request letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors, ideally by the end of the school year.
6. Create a Common Application account and start working on your essays.
7. Look for scholarships and begin submitting applications over the summer before senior year.
8. Continue participating in meaningful extracurricular activities.
Senior Year:
1. Retake the SAT/ACT during the fall if necessary.
2. Finalize your college list, including reach, match, and safety schools.
3. Attend college application workshops and seek feedback on your essays.
4. Submit applications for Early Action or Early Decision if applicable (usually in October or November).
5. Submit applications for regular decision, typically by January or February.
6. Complete the FAFSA or any other financial aid applications in October or as soon as possible.
7. Apply for scholarships and send follow-up information to colleges if requested.
8. Receive college decisions between March and April.
9. Decide on the college you'll attend and send your enrollment deposit by May 1st.
10. Request your final transcripts to be sent to the college you'll attend.
Keep in mind that this timeline is a general guide, and individual circumstances can vary. Stay organized, seek guidance from your school counselor, set personal deadlines, and always double-check each college's specific requirements and deadlines. Good luck!
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