Senior Year College Timeline

  • August
    • Start thinking about college options
    • Research college websites
    • Request catalogs and admissions information from colleges
    • Begin scheduling visits with colleges and universities
    • Sign-up for the ACT/SAT

    September
    • Meet with Admissions Representatives visiting BMHS
    • Obtain Admission Applications
    • Begin touring colleges and universities
    • Make a list of deadlines for ACT/SAT test dates, admissions and financial aid applications
    • Begin asking teachers/employers for letters of recommendation

    October
    • Take the ACT/SAT if necessary
    • Begin completing college applications (request transcripts, test scores from the Guidance Office)
    • Visit your top college choices
    • Identify Open House Dates offered at colleges you are considering
    • Find out what financial aid forms are required by the college you are interested in
    • Research outside scholarships (scholarship websites, local scholarships)

    November
    • Take the SAT if necessary
    • Submit college applications by Thanksgiving break
    • Request FAFSA pin number online (fafsa.ed.gov)
    • Apply for scholarships

    December
    • Take the ACT/SAT if necessary
    • Familiarize yourself with the FAFSA website
    • Continue applying for scholarships (Ask your Admissions Counselors about possible scholarship days held at their Universities.

    January
    • Attend parent financial aid meeting
    • Submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as possible after January 1st
    • Be sure to list the college codes of the schools you are considering on the FAFSA (You can locate codes on college websites or through the Admissions Office)
    • Keep copies of all submitted forms
    • Send mid-year grades to colleges

    February
    • Start narrowing down your college choices and send deposits
    • Continue applying for scholarships

    March
    • Begin reviewing financial aid packages with Admissions Counselors and parents
    • Apply for local scholarships

    April
    • Compare financial aid packages and decide on your final college choice by May 1st
    • Send deposit to ensure enrollment

    Summer
    • Begin accepting and finalizing financial aid for chosen college
    • Select a summer orientation date to attend
    • Receive residence hall assignment, obtain course scheduling, purchase books for classes and secure any loans necessary to pay for college

    Congratulations! You are about to begin one of the greatest adventures of your life.