September: Register to take the PSAT/ PLAN/ and /or NMSQT. Write or email all colleges on your preliminary list for information and catalogs. Set up a filing system with individual files for each college.
October: Use the internet to “visit”college campuses and ascertain entrance requirements. Take the PSAT/ NMSQT to be considered for National Merit Scholarships.
November: Eliminate schools which do not meet your interests and criteria. Establish a working list of schools. Include a “reach” school that may be difficult for you to gain admission, two or three probable schools you will satisfy admission requirements, and one “safe” school where you know you will be accepted. Call or write colleges to schedule a campus tour during winter and spring breaks.
December: Obtain forms and schedules for the SAT and ACT. Purchase a practice booklet for the college entrance exams and begin to familiarize yourself with the test format. Consider an SAT prep course to improve scores. Meet with your guidance counselor and discuss which colleges would best serve your areas of interest.
January and February: Continue to gather information. If necessary, narrow the number of schools in your file.
March : Take the SAT/ACT. Prepare for Advanced Placement tests (if applicable) Tour campuses. Set up interviews if possible. Send thank you notes for each interview. Explore early decision options with your counselor.
April: Register for additional ACT/SAT tests if needed. Continue building files on selected colleges. Begin to gather letters of recommendation from teachers/community.
May: Concentrate on preparing for final exams.
Summer: Narrow choices to 3 colleges and prepare “rough drafts” for application essays. Continue studying for SAT/ACT
