Free resource

Senior year college checklist

Everything to do from the summer of senior year to graduation, season by season. Check things off as you go, or print it for the fridge.

Summer of senior year

Write your personal statement, with a goal of finishing by August 1.
Decide whether to retake the SAT or ACT this summer or early in senior fall, and register early.
Finalize your college list and write down each deadline and essay prompt.
Determine if you will be using the Common App or ApplyTexas, then create your account. Both open August 1.
Update your resume and activities list.
Evaluate whether you need more meaningful volunteering or job shadowing experiences, and make a plan to get them.
Find out whether your colleges track demonstrated interest. If they do, schedule campus tours, in person or virtual.
Look for ways to show interest in your intended major, like a summer program, project, or class.

Ask two teachers and your counselor for recommendations, at least a month before your first deadline.
Request your high school transcript for each application.
Write supplemental essays, starting with the earliest deadlines.
Submit early applications. Many are due between October 15 and November 15.
File the FAFSA or TASFA as soon as it opens, and the CSS Profile if your colleges require it.

Submit your remaining applications, with final essays ready at least 72 hours before each deadline.
Send official SAT or ACT scores to colleges that require or recommend them.
Log in to every college portal and check for missing documents.
Keep applying for scholarships, local and national.
Keep your grades strong. Colleges see your senior-year grades too.

Meet the January 15 Texas priority deadline for the FAFSA or TASFA.
Send midyear grades if a college asks for them.
Watch your email and portals for admission decisions and scholarship offers.
Compare financial aid offers side by side, looking at total cost, not just the grants.

Starting late or feeling behind? The Senior Year Package starts with whatever is due first. Send an inquiry.