The Essential Senior Year Timeline for Rising College Freshmen
Senior year of high school is an exciting yet often overwhelming time, especially for students planning to attend college. The list of tasks and decisions can feel longer than ever. That’s why College Success Plan collaborated with Premium Prep College Counseling to create a helpful checklist for rising college freshmen—guiding you through your senior year all the way to the month you arrive on campus. Use this timeline to stay organized and tackle your to-do list step by step.
And remember, if you need support with your college application process or help transitioning to college life, College Success Plan and Premium Prep are here for you!
August – October
Meet with Your Family and School Counselor:
Discuss your college options and create a balanced list of schools you plan on applying to. This list should include likely, target, and reach schools.
Finish Test Taking and Essay Writing:
Take your final SAT and ACT tests during this time if you are still looking to increase your scores before application submissions. Finalize your personal essay and have this double-checked by your counselor or writing professional.
Organize Your Application Deadlines:
Make a list of application deadlines for the schools on your college list. Include whether you plan on applying ED, EA, or RD. If any questions arise during this time, reach out to the admissions office at the school you are applying to.
November – January
Submit Your Applications:
Complete all of your applications and required application materials. Remember your deadlines and submit your applications a few days before each deadline to ensure you do not miss any additional action items that may populate once you log into each school’s student portal. Submitting applications early will also ensure that all of your materials are received before the deadline.
Check Your Email:
Schools will release decision notifications, and other important information at various times during these months. Checking your email and student portals periodically will allow you to stay on top of important information.
February – April
Determine Which School You Will Be Attending:
Make your final decision on which school you will be attending and submit your enrollment deposit by May 1st. During this time you should also meet with your school counselor and family to further discuss your choice and confirm that your academic credits are on track for graduation.
Contact the Accessibility Office (If Needed):
If you are going to be requesting accommodations, start the registration process with the Student Accessibility Office early so you have time to complete any required testing or documentation.
May
Schedule Doctor Appointments:
Book appointments for necessary health check-ups and vaccinations. Make sure you have refills for any prescriptions you need to take with you and have a plan for how to get any necessary medications when you are away at school.
Organize Medical Records and Insurance Information and Sign any Required Forms:
Prepare copies of important health documents, such as vaccination records and insurance cards, to take with you to school. Discuss with your parents which forms (FERPA, HIPAA, and Power of Attorney) are needed for emergency communication and access to health and academic records.
Check Health Insurance Coverage:
Review your school’s health insurance plan options and deadlines. If your family’s insurance meets the requirements, complete any waivers to avoid unnecessary fees.
June
Submit Housing Forms:
Complete housing questionnaires, sign roommate contracts, and submit any other housing forms before the deadline.
Register for Orientation:
Most schools require orientation during the summer or in the couple weeks before fall classes begin. Register for the orientation that best fits your schedule. If applicable, also register for your fall classes, although many schools will walk you through this process during orientation.
Take a Virtual Tour or Visit Your Campus:
Use virtual or in-person tours to explore the layout of the campus and locate key places like the library, cafeteria, school store, and main classroom buildings.
Request Your Final Transcript:
Reach out to your school counselor to confirm your final, official transcript as well as any AP/IB/Dual-enrollment scores and transcripts, be sent to the college you are attending.
July
Plan Move-In Details:
Confirm your assigned move-in date and schedule a time to gather necessary supplies for your dorm.
Look into Campus Clubs and Organizations:
Research clubs, sports, and extracurriculars, and note when campus fairs or club sign-up events are happening. Social media can give you insight into the activities and vibe of various groups.
Discuss Expectations with Family:
Talk about finances, expectations for communication, and household responsibilities to be prepared for this major transition.
August
Pack and Organize:
Begin packing and organizing everything you’ll need in college—try to start early to avoid last-minute stress.
Finalize Any Outstanding Paperwork:
Complete any additional forms required by the college, like finalizing insurance waivers or accommodation paperwork.
Review Academic Requirements and Syllabi (if available):
Check your course syllabi and review the requirements, textbooks, and other resources you may need.
With this checklist, high school seniors can stay organized and focused on a smooth transition to college. And remember, Premium Prep College Counseling and College Success Plan are here to help you navigate this exciting journey with ease and confidence. Whether you need expert guidance on the college application process or academic coaching to start freshman year strong and have a successful college experience, we’ve got you covered.
Reach out today—your future awaits!
