College Checklist

High School Juniors

Explore possible college majors and careers.

Talk with counselors, family and friends about possible choices.

Spend time in your library exploring career information.

Consult college and university representatives when they visit your school.

See your school counselor or the admission adviser of any college you are considering attending.

Make sure you will qualify for admission on the basis of class rank and high school course work.

Plan to complete any deficiencies in high school course work.

Tours and preview day programs offer a great opportunity to visit campuses.

Contact the campuses that interest you and make an appointment to visit.

Attend college and career fairs in your area.

High School Seniors - Fall

If you have not already taken the ACT or SAT test, see your school counselor to register for the earliest possible test date.

Visit any college or university by making an appointment for a campus tour or preview day.

Begin researching scholarship opportunities and financial aid.

Check announcements at your school on scholarships, financial aid, college representative school visit, and education fairs.

High School Seniors - Winter

Familiarize yourself with the financial aid process.

If financial aid information sessions are offered at your school, attend with your parents.

If you haven't already applied for admission, don't delay!

Many UW System campuses have admission or housing deadlines or priority dates after which they may not be able to accept applications.

Financial aid applications are available beginning January 1.

Pick up a copy of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) from your school counselor or apply electronically.

Check with your school counselor or campus financial aid office on the availability of local or campus scholarships.

Several free scholarship searches can be found on the Web.

High School Seniors - Spring

If you haven't already done so, you can still apply for financial aid.

Be aware of campus financial aid priority dates!

Make a reservation to participate in placement testing, orientation, and registration programs.

Each university will send information to admitted students with information on new student programs.

You can get a head start on your degree by enrolling in a summer session.

Check on course offerings and apply for college credit course work.

If you applied and were admitted to more than one college or university, notify any campus(es) that you have chosen not to attend.

High School Seniors - Summer

Orientation, advising and registration programs are held on most campuses.

Be sure to register for the session you hope to attend or contact the campus for information or to make arrangements.

Keep any letters you receive for reference.

From late May through July, financial aid award letters will go to students who applied on time.

Be sure to read any letters carefully and respond by any deadline specified.