Have you created your College Admissions Roadmap?

You cannot, you will not, you must not procrastinate.  Staying ahead of deadlines will allow you to write stronger essays, get better recommendations, and help reduce your overall stress.

SEPTEMBER: Build Your Foundation

• Create a master calendar with all your key dates: test days, application deadlines, essay drafts, recommendations, and scholarship cutoffs. This approach will create a clear system that will help you stay calm and on top of things.

• Meet with your counselor to make sure you’re on the right track to graduate and that you meet college admissions requirements.

• Attend local college fairs, meet college representatives, and visit campuses if you can. Work on creating a shortlist of colleges you want to attend.

• Start drafting now. These essays demand reflection and revision, something not easily achieved at the last minute. Give yourself the gift of time.

•  If you still need the SAT or ACT, register immediately.  If cost is a concern, see your counselor about fee waivers.

OCTOBER

• File your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as it opens on Oct. 1.

• Refine your essay drafts and prepare them for submission if applying early.

• If you cannot afford the application fees many colleges charge, ask your counselor to help you request a fee waiver.

• Watch for any deadlines (rolling, priority, early decision, and early action).

• Secure personal recommendations from teachers, school counselors, or employers.

• Begin applying for scholarships. Remember, scholarship information should always be free. Deadlines are drawing near, and the choices you make will reverberate far beyond the college application season.