The Ultimate College Application Checklist for High School Seniors

Senior year moves faster than most students expect. This checklist keeps you organized and on track.

Summer Before Senior Year (June–August)

□ Finalize college list (8–12 schools, balanced safety/target/reach)
□ Create Common App account (opens August 1)
□ Draft Common App personal statement
□ Request letters of recommendation from 2–3 teachers (ask before school ends!)
□ Visit remaining colleges on your list
□ Create a master spreadsheet tracking deadlines and requirements for each school
□ Research financial aid requirements for each school (FAFSA? CSS Profile?)

September–October

□ Finalize and revise Common App personal statement
□ Draft supplemental essays for EA/ED schools
□ Complete all Common App core sections (activities, awards, demographics)
□ Confirm recommenders have received invitation through Common App
□ Take SAT/ACT if needed (October dates available)
□ Submit FAFSA as soon as it opens (October 1)
□ Submit CSS Profile if required (check each school's deadline)
□ Submit EA/ED applications (most due November 1 or 15)

November–December

□ Continue drafting RD supplemental essays
□ Receive EA/ED decisions (mid-December)
□ If deferred, send Letter of Continued Interest promptly
□ Take December SAT/ACT if still needed for RD schools

January–February

□ Submit all Regular Decision applications (most due January 1 or 15)
□ Send first-semester senior grade reports if requested
□ Follow up with financial aid offices if any information is missing

March–May

□ Receive Regular Decision results (late March/early April)
□ Compare financial aid packages carefully
□ Attend admitted students days
□ Appeal financial aid if appropriate
□ Make final decision — submit enrollment deposit by May 1

Frequently Asked Questions