Before applying to college:

Grades, extracurricular activities, organizations, volunteer service to the community, work experience, athletics Calendar—Start the year prior to the next Fall semester beginning:

Below is a typical schedule for regular college entrance for an associate's degree or higher. Check with your college of choice to learn their application requirements and schedule.

SEPTEMBER

• Complete all college testing prior beginning the application process.
• Obtain college degree information and applications from colleges and universities—narrow your list to several colleges and put them in order of priority. Research financial aid—grants, scholarships.
• Create calendar with all deadlines.

OCTOBER

• Obtain high school/college transcripts—make sure they are accurate.
• Fill out college applications Request letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, professionals.
• Write admission and scholarship essays Submit application for early decision/admission deadline (typically November 1st).

NOVEMBER

• Continue college application process.
• Continue researching sources of financial aid, find out which financial aid forms each college requires, and estimate how much financial aid you will need.

DECEMBER

• Finish college applications Research Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) – Deadline January 1st.

JANUARY

• Finish completing financial aid forms and applications—know the Federal (January 1) and State financial aid deadlines.

FEBRUARY & MARCH

• Start looking for college decision letters Review your Student Aid Report.

APRIL & MAY

• Review college acceptance letters Notify colleges with your decision.
• CELEBRATE! Provide colleges with any additional application, financial aid and student loan paper work.

JUNE

• Start preparing to attend college!
• Create checklist for registration, orientation, packing, etc.

JULY

• Enjoy the remaining time with friends and family before going to college and hitting the books.