PSAT results are distributed prior to winter break. Use this information to evaluate what you need to work on to score your best on the SAT this spring.
Correct answers will be on the results sheet along with an access code so you can review your results and receive further information online.
Research possible college choices – start this if you have not already done so. This is the perfect time to start asking questions about the college process.
All students should take the ACT / SAT in the spring. Most colleges will accept either and there is not a way to predict which test will be best for which student.
Create academic resume and list all extracurricular activities from high school.
February-March
Visit colleges – Juniors have two excused college visit days for the year. Prior to attending the college visits, students must get the absence form from the front office. The form requires a signature from the college administrator, parent, and student and then turned in to the attendance clerk when you return in order to receive an excused absence.
Prepare for dual credit classes senior year (Apply to Collin College, take the TSI, and complete your paperwork before you can register).
April – May
Some select out-of-state schools will want you to take one or more SAT subject tests as part of the admissions process. Look at taking a subject test or tests in June, if needed, while the material is still fresh in your mind. Register now for those.
Take AP tests for any AP course. Registration for AP tests is done at the end of March. Pay attention to announcements.
Contact teachers, coaches, or community members and ask if they are willing to write a personal recommendation on your behalf. Have 3-5 willing to write a recommendation.
June – August
Visit college campuses.
Finalize Top 10 list of colleges you would like to attend. Record the application deadlines, minimum ACT/SAT scores and GPA, scholarship process, and cost of attendance.
Start applying for colleges once their application opens for the next school year.
Work on college essays and have several people including friends, teachers, and adults read them for accuracy.
Contact recommenders to write your letters and include in your request a copy of your resume and provide them with your GPA and instructions for how to submit recommendation.
If you are considering playing Division I or II sports in college, register with the NCAA Clearinghouse at www.eligibilitycenter.org.
Senior Year
September - October
Check for scholarships at school(s) in which you are interested.
Check application deadlines for schools you are interested in and begin ApplyTexas or CommonApp applications.
Register for the October ACT/SAT if you need to improve your scores for admission and/or scholarships.
Attend college fair at high school.
Seniors have two excused college visit days each semester. Prior to attending the college visits, students must get the absence form from the front office. The form requires a signature from the college administrator, parent, and student and then turned in to the attendance clerk when you return in order to receive an excused absence.
Begin FAFSA (fafsa.gov) process. Student and parent create FSA ID and then enter financial information starting on October 1st.
November - December
Many college applications to selective schools are due in early December. If that application requires a letter of recommendation, please remember to ask for it at least two weeks in advance. Also, share the specific details of where to submit as well as your resume.
Look for chances to talk to college students that may be home for the holidays, especially if they attend a school in which you are interested.
January
Continue to complete your college applications and apply for local and online scholarships.
February – March
Many local scholarships are available at this time. Check with your school, churches, civic groups, places of employment, etc.
April - May
Most regular decision college admission letters will arrive.
Reply to college acceptance letters no later than May 1st. Let all the colleges that accepted you know whether or not you will be attending.
If accepted, start process of signing up for housing and summer orientation.
If your first choice college places you on their waiting list, do not lose all hope. Some students are admitted at a later date from waiting lists. Go ahead and accept another offer, then if you are selected off the waitlist you can make a decision at that time.
Take AP tests for any AP course. Scores on the test range from 1–5. A score of 3 or higher will earn a student college credit at many universities.
June – July
You may send one final SHS transcript to a college – the one you will attend.
Register for classes – many schools will have register online, some will have summer orientation programs for you to attend and others will have you register in the fall.
