Senior Year Planning Calendar

1. Take the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) or the ACT (American College Testing) early in your Senior year - If you haven't already or if you want to retake your tests. Several books, websites, and organizations can help with test preparation.
2. Attend college and career fairs in your area and make any additional visits to campuses. Attend financial aid nights offered at your high school or local colleges.
3. Request transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and college applications. Complete and track your college admissions application packets. Verify and meet any application deadlines. Apply to a variety of schools.
4. Continue to focus on getting good grades, looking for scholarships and grant money, and narrowing your college and career choices.
5. Apply for a Federal PIN number online at www.pin.ed.gov. The PIN number will allow you to electronically sign your application for Federal Student Aid, as well as your student loan application.
6. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon after January 1st as possible at www.fafsa.ed.gov. You may use the information provided on your W-2�s or from your completed tax forms. List up to six schools on your FAFSA to receive your financial information.
7. Look for responses from both the FAFSA (Student Aid Report) and from your college applications. Respond quickly to any requests for additional information.
8. Compare financial aid packages and costs of attending each school and make a final decision on which school you will attend. Speak to your financial aid advisor regarding any questions you have about your financial aid package.
9. Sign your letter of intent and make a tuition deposit at the school you have chosen. Request a copy of your final transcripts to be sent from your high school to the college of your choice.
10. Make a list of important dates not to be missed on your calendar, such as the date your tuition is due in full, the date a housing deposit is required, the date of orientation at your school, the deadline for registration of all classes, the deadline for dropping a class, and the date of the first day of classes.

Ask questions. Visit your financial aid office and that of your student advisor. Research possible requirements and important dates on your school�s website. Prepare for your move to college and for a challenging academic schedule.