Things to Think about and Do as You Start Senior Year
This article was written by our partner, Scoir, the College & Career Network. Learn more about our partnership here.
Congrats, you’ve nearly made it! With the majority of high school behind you, you’re in the home stretch.
Is senioritis kicking in yet? 😉
While you definitely deserve to take a breather, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind as you start senior year to make sure you stay on track with your post-secondary plans (whether that’s college, tech or trade school, going into the workforce, or something else).
P.S. Please take the following timeline with a grain of salt. 🧂 Your counselor may have a different timeline, so check in with them at the start of your senior year to ensure you’re following what they recommend.
Last Call to Take Standardized Tests
If you find yourself in your senior year and want to improve your SAT or ACT scores and improve your admission chances, you may have a final chance this fall. Be sure to check the application deadlines of the colleges on your list and see if you can squeeze it in.
If you’re applying for regular decision, December of your senior year is likely your last chance to take standardized tests. If you’re applying during early decision or early action, you’ll want to take the tests ASAP.
Be sure to check in with your counselor. They can help you with your unique situation!
Finalize Your College Lists and Complete Applications
If you plan to continue your education after high school, it’s time to finalize your college list.
At the beginning of your senior year, you’ll want to prioritize:
- Balancing your college list
- Writing down the application due dates for each college
- Figuring out what you need to do before you complete your applications (visit colleges on your list, retake standardized tests, etc.)
Scoir can help you manage your college list and track the colleges where you’ve applied. Create a free account to try it out!
Maintain Your Grades
Even after you submit your applications, colleges and future employers will still watch your grades. They want to see that you finish senior year strong.
Keep your grades up by maintaining good study habits and taking care of yourself as you finish high school!
Secure Financial Aid
If you’re going to college, you’ll want to fill out the FAFSA (and potentially the CSS Profile) this fall. Now’s a good time to look into additional scholarships you can apply to as well.
In the spring of your senior year, you’ll want to verify your financial aid options and see how much each school you’ve been accepted into will cost you. This may help you make your final college decision.
Be sure to work closely with your parent or guardian throughout the financial aid process. They can help you create a budget for college and fill out the FAFSA and/or CSS Profile.
Compare Offers, Accept, and Celebrate
You’re nearly in! Check out this article on evaluating your enrollment options to help you decide which college to attend.
Thank Those Who Helped You Along the Way
Be sure to thank your counselors, teachers, mentors, tutors, those who wrote your letters of recommendation, and more. 💙 A written letter is a nice touch!
Looking for a tool to help you and your student keep your college planning organized? We think Scoir is a great place to start! 😉 Scoir will help you and your student discover colleges, find best-fit schools, and even apply, when it’s time. We recently held a Scoir Back to School webinar for parents/guardians that you can watch for free if you’re interested in learning more.
