SENIOR YEAR (CLASS OF 2008)

October
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the application requirements and procedures for each college you've selected. That includes application fees (fee waiver are sometimes available to qualified applicants), which test scores (SAT or ACT) you need to provide, how many letters of recommendation you need, what essays or personal statements you need, each school's tuition and chances of receiving aid, and whether or not you can apply online.

Keep a very close eye on those deadlines! These dates dictate the precise schedule by which you need to complete the remaining tasks until acceptance.

NOTE: If you are applying early action/early decision, you'll need to speed up this process.

Stay on top of all school assignments. Grades still matter!
Take advantage of leadership opportunities within your activities. Don't back off now.
Meet with your guidance counselor if you haven't yet.
Review your official transcript (before you send it to a single school) and make sure it's correct!
Prioritize the schools on your list (by deadline and by your desire to attend that college).
Start working on your college essays. Have others read early drafts.
Continue researching scholarships.
If you haven't already, ask your teachers if they'll write you your college recommendations.
Deliver recommendation forms if possible.
Discuss financial aid application requirements with your parents.

Get a Jump Start on Your Admissions Essay
Choosing an Essay Topic
EFC: How to Learn the Amount You'll Be Expected to Pay for College
Your Transcript: Reading Between the Lines