College-bound Checklist

Here are a variety of suggestions to help you prepare for college, presented in checklist format. To get a hard copy, just print the page!

General Advice

From 7th grade on, there are several things you can do to prepare for college:

Review your class schedule with your school counselor to make certain you are taking all required courses for college admission.
Create an SEOP plan to attend college in 9th grade, and go over it each year with your school counselor.
Maintain an "A" or "B" grade point average.
Involve yourself in extracurricular activities. They will enable you to explore your interests, meet people, and learn new things.

Create a personal file to keep college application information. It should include the following:

report cards
certificates and diplomas
awards and honors received
clubs, volunteer work, and organizations
employment history

Specific Advice

7th Grade

	Form study groups.
	Ask your teacher for help if you are struggling in a class.
	Start saving money for college in an educational IRA.

8th Grade

	Take classes that will prepare you for 9th grade.
	Participate in academic enrichment programs that will help you excel in your classes.
	Be willing to go the extra mile to do well on assignments and tests.

9th Grade

	Take either algebra or geometry, as well as a foreign language.
	Complete the requirements for SEOP class and attend individual SEOP sessions.

10th Grade

Think about taking the PSAT & ACT PREP tests. The PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test) and ACT Prep (American College Testing) tests may be taken during 10th or 11th grade. Speak with your school guidance counselor about test dates, descriptive questionnaires, registration fees, and registration fee waivers.

11th Grade

	Maintain an "A" or "B" grade point average. Your junior year grades, particularly in the spring, will weigh heavily in the college's decision for admission.
	Participate in academic enrichment programs. Colleges and universities organize excellent summer programs on campus for incoming high school seniors. Ask your guidance counselor about these programs.
	Prepare for the ACT and/or SAT. Most colleges or universities require either the SAT or the ACT, and now is the time to prepare. The following will help: Ask your school guidance counselor about SAT and ACT Prep classes. Your counselor can provide registration forms, and information on registration fee waivers. Decided when you will take the SAT or ACT. Your counselor has test dates and descriptive brochures. Take the SAT or the ACT.
	Go to the college fairs and presentations. If possible, arrange to take a tour of the college campus. Listen to your school announcements for information about visits from college representatives.
	Read all college materials you receive. Compare requirements for admission and financial aid.
	Write, call, or check each college's website for admissions information. Request copies of admissions applications, financial aid applications, a catalogue, and information on majors you are interested in. Your school guidance counselor can provide college addresses and telephone numbers.

12th Grade

	If you did not take the SAT or ACT as a Junior, register early in September for fall SAT and/or ACT. One of the two will be required by the colleges where you plan to apply. Your counselor has exam registration forms and fee waiver information.
	Apply to colleges early! Generally during October or November you may apply for "early action," "early decision," or "priority consideration" plans. In December, January, or February you may apply under regular admissions plans. December is the latest time to apply for honors scholarships and programs at most universities.
	Make sure that your application forms are filled out completely and neatly. Make a photocopy of all completed application forms before you mail them. Keep copies of everything in your personal file.
	Obtain information on application fee waivers from your school counselor.
	Mail in your acceptance form and deposit check as soon as possible, particularly if you plan to live in a residence hall on campus. Pay particular attention to the acceptance letter deadline.
	Remind your parents to prepare their income tax statements as early as possible. Most colleges require a photocopy of them for financial aid applications.
	Mail your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) in January or early February, to apply for financial aid. Your school counselor or the college Financial Aid offices can provide the form. If you are going to an out-of-state college, other financial aid forms and applications may be required.
	Compare letters of acceptance and financial aid offers from colleges before deciding which to attend.
	Keep copies of everything that you send to colleges and the U.S. Department of Education.
	Update your files from each college or university. Each file should include a checklist of admissions items required: transcripts, application fees, test scores, letters or recommendations, essays, student aid applications, etc. Pay particular attention to all the deadlines. Mark them down on your calendar.