Hey guys, I'm a junior and just starting to figure my way around the whole college application process. I could use some advice on creating a timeline for applying to colleges – when should I start working on essays, asking for recommendations, and finalizing my college list? Thanks in advance!
Hey there! It's great that you're getting a head start on the college application process. Here's a general timeline to help you stay organized – feel free to adjust according to your needs and school's requirements:
Junior Year:
- Fall: Research colleges and create a preliminary list of schools you're interested in. If you haven't already, start getting involved in extracurriculars that interest you and align with your goals.
- Winter: Begin preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Take the PSAT to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
- Spring: Take the SAT or ACT, and if needed, start planning for any retakes. Visit colleges during spring break if possible, or attend virtual information sessions. Also, start discussing college options with your parents and counselor.
- Late Spring/Summer: Begin asking teachers for letters of recommendation, ideally before the school year ends. Start working on your personal statement and brainstorming essay ideas for supplemental essays. Draft your resume or activities list for the Common App/other applications.
Senior Year:
- Early Fall: Finalize your college list and determine if you'll apply Early Decision (ED), Early Action (EA), or Regular Decision (RD). Refine and edit your personal statement and supplemental essays with the help of peers, teachers, or counselors. Attend college fairs and open houses.
- October: Fill out the FAFSA or CSS Profile for financial aid consideration. Apply for outside scholarships. Submit your ED or EA applications if applicable (deadlines typically range from October 15 to November 15).
- November/December: Submit RD applications (deadlines typically range from December 1 to January 15). Stay on top of any additional materials needed, such as supplementary essays, test scores, and transcripts.
- January: Most RD applications should be submitted by now. Keep track of your application progress and ensure everything has been received by the colleges.
- Spring: Wait for decisions to roll in (typically from March to April). Once accepted, compare financial aid packages, and revisit the campuses if possible. Make your final decision and submit your enrollment deposit by May 1st (National Decision Day).
- Summer: Prepare for college! Attend orientation sessions, register for classes, and get ready for the next chapter of your life.
Good luck with your college applications! Just remember to stay organized, ask for help when needed, and take breaks when it becomes overwhelming.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.