September

• If you haven't already done so, identify your career goal. See your guidance counselor to plan the steps necessary to prepare for your career goal.
• If a degree is required, meet with your guidance counselor to be sure your college list includes schools appropriate to your academic and personal record. Contact colleges to request applications (if your counselor does not have them).
• If needed, sign-up for the SAT I or ACT (send scores to colleges and universities on your list).
• Begin to gather the information needed for applications - including teacher recommendations.
• Plan visits to college campuses.
• Begin sending your college applications. Make copies of all applications and other materials sent to colleges for your files.
• Continue to develop your resume for employment or educational experiences. Here is the chance for you to sell yourself - list your achievements, honors, activities, etc.

October

• Attend an ACT/SAT Prep Workshop.
• Applications - don't wait until the final deadline - Apply Early.
• Some college applications require an essay. Develop an outline and ask your English teacher for assistance.
• Scholarships - look and listen for announcements in school bulletins, local newspapers and use scholarship databases available in the guidance office.
• Review the TOPS Scholarship requirements and your progress toward qualification with your counselor (Louisiana residents only).
• Attend a college fair.

November

• Attend a college fair.
• Take the ACT or SAT if necessary.
• Attend a college senior day or open house.
• College applications - you should complete your applications as soon as possible. Do not wait for test scores.

December

• Pick a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) from your guidance counselor. Begin working on it, but do not submit it before January 1st.
• File your last college applications. Don't forget UNO's scholarship deadline is January 15th. Make sure to also submit official high school transcripts and test scores.
• Continue your scholarship search - your counselor can help you.

January

• Don't miss UNO's Scholarship Deadline - January 15th.
• Submit your FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1st in order to have the best chance for available funds. If you have any questions, see your counselor.
• Remember to keep copies of all forms you submit for your files.

February

• Men 18 years of age and over must register for the Selective Service in order to receive federal financial aid.
• MAKE A FINAL RANKING OF ALL COLLEGES YOU ARE CONSIDERING.
• Grades - Don't fall prey to "Senioritis!" All college acceptances are provisional - contingent upon the maintenance of your present level of achievement plus successful completion of this semester's work.
• Apply for Summer Bridge programs (UNO's Prepstart deadline is April 15th).

March

• Every senior needs a contingency plan. See your counselor for other opportunities. Keep the door open.
• Be on the lookout for scholarship award letters.
• Attend Spring Testing or Early Orientation.
• Attend an ACT/SAT Prep Workshop (if not attended already).
• Apply for summer financial aid (UNO's Summer Request form is available in Mid-March).

April

• If you applied for financial aid, closely review the SAR (Student Aid Report) that you received in the mail and make any necessary corrections.
• Contact the Financial Aid Office to check your application status.
• Take the ACT/SAT (if haven't already or to raise your score).
• Make your final decision on scholarship and admission offers.

May/June/July

• Make sure that you accept the financial aid award from the college you decide to attend. You should decline offers from the other schools so those funds can be made available to other students.
• Review your financial aid award letters. If you have any questions, call or write the financial aid office of the individual colleges.
• Clear all senior obligations with the guidance counselor.
• Notify your counselor of any awards or scholarships (academic, artistic, athletic, dramatic, etc.) that you receive.
• Exams - Do Your Best - Those grades still count.
• Fill out your senior survey and final transcript request form.
• GRADUATION! That important day has finally arrived. You've made it!

August

• Your first semester of college beings. You have reached your destination - Life After High School!