September

• Check in with your high school guidance counselor. He/she will be a great source in your college search.
• Review your schedule. Make certain your courses suit you long-term goals. Remember that colleges look for challenging coursework as well as a strong GPA.
• Prepare to take the PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test) if you are planning a career that requires post-high school education.
• Review the TOPS Scholarship requirements and your progress toward qualification with your counselor (Louisiana residents only).
• Involve yourself in extracurricular activities. Try to attain a leadership role such as president, vice president, or secretary.
• Make a list of up to ten colleges that you would like to attend. Start to gather information about these schools.

October

• If you are working or volunteering your time, try to do so in a field related to a career(s) you would like to explore.
• Take the PSAT.
• Ask your counselor about Advance Placement (AP) and/or early admission college programs.
• Attend college fairs to meet recruiters from local and national universities.
• Attend presentations at your high school from visiting colleges that interest you.

November

• Plan to attend a college fair.
• Add important documents and information about yourself to your Portfolio.

December

• If you have not already done so, talk to your counselor about exploring and selecting a career major.
• Begin to prepare/study for the ACT/SAT.
• Get involved in a community service activity.

January

• This spring you will take the GEE 21, which is required for graduation (Louisiana residents only). Be prepared for this important test.
• Sign up for the ACT or SAT I. Fee waivers are available for students who cannot afford the test fees.
• Begin educating yourself about college or training costs and financial aid.
• Attend financial aid workshops.
• Begin talking with your parents about completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for financial aid, and the Louisiana Tuition Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS), which is to be completed during your senior year (Louisiana residents only).

February

• Select your senior year courses carefully. Review coursework necessary to qualify for the TOPS Program (Louisiana residents only).
• If your school offers a career day, take advantage of this opportunity to talk to professionals in the working world.
• Pick up an ACT/SAT registration packet and register for one or both of the tests.

March

• Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss your college options and how competitive your range of choices should be.
• Consider applying for a Summer Honors Program - summer school credit and job experience. You will be matched, if possible, with a business site that related to your career goal or interest.
• Take the ACT/SAT.

April

• Learn how to calculate your GPA and how class rank is determined.
• Take the ACT/SAT (if not taken in March or to improve your score).
• Attend spring college fairs and presentations.
• Visit college campuses over the holiday break.
• Create a folder for each college on your list or track your colleges online. Make copies of everything you submit.

May

• Take ACT/SAT (if not already taken or to improve your score).
• Identify teachers, administrators, counselors, and other adults (religious leader or employer) who would be willing to write letters of recommendation.
• Find out which civic, cultural, and service organizations in your area award scholarships to graduating seniors. Start a file.
• Write colleges for applications and scholarship information.
• Plan college visits; call now for tours and appointments.
• Confirm your academic schedule for your senior year.

[Back to top]

June/July/August