College Application Timeline. Know when to submit your application and scholarship essays.

My guess is that you're stressed out about college applications. Don't be! The process can be difficult to navigate but I'm here to help!

Below you'll find a very general timeline that I recommend to my clients. This timeline gives you plenty of time to get the things done so that you aren't stressed. BUT, if you are a bit late to the process, know that we can speed things up and get things submitted on time!

Junior Year:

December-March:

1. Meet with your school’s guidance counselor to make sure that you're on track to graduate.

2. Start exploring colleges to understand what your options are. Doing this early allows you to think about where you want to go and what you’d like to study.

April-May:

1. Study for and register for your college entrance exams (ACT or SAT). Different colleges have different requirements, so be sure to know what their requirements are.

2. Think about and request letters of recommendation.

Summer between your Junior and Senior Years:

1. Register for the ACT or SAT. 2. Write your Common Essay. This usually requires at least 4 good drafts where you write and re-write. 3. Narrow down your list of colleges where you’ll be applying.

4. Be aware of application deadlines. Most schools have early admissions deadlines, so be aware of when that is and what you’ll need to do.

Senior Year:

August-September:

1. Finalize your Common Essay.

2. Finalize your school list.

3. Take ACT or SAT (if applicable).

4. Connect with those writing your recommendation letters to make sure they have what they need.

5. Begin working on the supplemental essay questions.

October:

1. Finalize your Common Essay (giving yourself a 3-4 week break before submitting is always a good idea).

2. Finalize supplemental essays.

3. Submit early admissions applications. Early application deadlines are typically in November.

November:

If you aren’t submitting an application for early admission, it’s possible to wait until November to finalize your Common Essay and supplemental essays.

December-March:

Prepare for and complete college interviews, where applicable.

Scholarship applications. After you’ve been admitted, universities will notify you about scholarships you should apply for. In addition there are always scholarships from businesses and organizations in your community.

May:

Submit a deposit to your school of choice!