12th grade
12th grade
You made it. You should feel proud of reaching this point! There’s still critical work to be done before graduation, so it’s important to stay focused.
Your checklist
STAY ON TRACK TO GRADUATE AND MEET COLLEGE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
STAY ON TRACK TO GRADUATE AND MEET
FALL
COLLEGE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Meet with your school counselor at the beginning of the year so you can adjust your course schedule and register for additional standardized tests, if necessary. Continue to meet throughout your senior year to check in on your college application progress. Be proactive about these meetings. Don’t wait for your counselor to reach out to you.
Don’t have a counselor? You have more resources available to you than you probably realize. Talk with your teachers, school administrators, coaches or assistant principals. You can even contact college admission officers. All of these people would be happy to help you think about your future. All you have to do is ask!
FINALIZE YOUR COLLEGE LIST
FALL
It’s time to complete your research and decide on the final list of schools you’ll be applying to. Work with your school counselor to ensure you have a list that excites you, meets your needs, and matches your academic credentials.
If you have a first choice college, discuss the possibility of applying Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA). Just make sure that you’d be happy to attend each and every college on your list (not just your ED or EA choice).
REGISTER FOR STANDARDIZED TESTS, IF NECESSARY
FALL
Make sure you check the testing rules for every college on your list, as requirements can vary. You can visit the official ACT and SAT websites to find test dates and sign-up details.
Pro tip: Both the ACT and College Board offer fee waivers if paying for the tests is tough for your family. If you need help covering the cost, talk to your school counselor about getting a waiver!
ASK FOR LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
ASK FOR LETTERS OF
FALL
RECOMMENDATION
Colleges and scholarship programs may ask for letters from teachers, counselors, or other adults who can describe what makes you a strong candidate.
To help with your letters of recommendation, use these forms, often called “brag sheets.” They help to share your story, achievements, and what matters most to you.
- Family brag sheet: A form for your family to complete. Give this to your recommender.
- Counselor brag sheet: A form for you to complete and give to your counselor.
- Teacher brag sheet: A form for you to complete and give to your teacher.
Once completed, give it to the person writing your college recommendation letter. They help your recommenders write letters that reflect who you are.
FILL OUT AND SUBMIT YOUR COLLEGE APPLICATIONS
FALL/WINTER
Use your college applications to showcase your strengths and tell your personal story. Doing this well takes time, effort, and careful attention to detail. Be mindful of deadlines and avoid waiting until the last minute.
Pro tip: In the Apply section of our website, you’ll find helpful resources. The application guide and a first-year toolkit will help you through the process.
IF YOU'RE APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AID, COMPLETE THE FAFSA
FALL/WINTER
Your Free Application for Financial Aid (FAFSA) should be done as soon as possible, beginning October 1. Some colleges will also ask you to complete the CSS Profile. Consult the Financial Aid Resources tab in your Common App. Pay careful attention to the specific financial aid deadlines and requirements for each college so you don’t miss out on any money you are eligible for.
Pro tip: Don't forget about scholarships! You may now match with scholarship opportunities directly in the Common App. Learn more about scholarship matching. Qualified applicants can apply for the Cooke College Scholarship Program, offered by the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, directly through the Common App.
REVIEW YOUR ACCEPTANCES AND MAKE YOUR DECISION
SPRING
This is the most exciting part! Take time to review your admission offers and compare financial aid packages. Most colleges offer special admitted students programs designed to help you make your decision, so visit your top choice schools, if possible. Your parents and school counselor can also help you with this decision-making process.
When you have made your decision, you will need to notify the college you choose of your commitment and submit a financial deposit by May 1st. You cannot submit a deposit to more than one school. You will also need to notify the colleges that you do not plan to attend of your decision. This is an important step in helping to open up seats for other students who may be on a waitlist for those schools.
CONTINUE TO WORK HARD AND MAINTAIN YOUR GRADES
ALL YEAR
Even after you complete your applications and receive admission offers, your entire year of grades still counts. Some colleges require midyear grades to be sent, and the college you choose to attend will receive your final high school transcript at the end of the year. College acceptances are contingent upon successful completion of your coursework, and a noticeable slip in academic performance could alter your scholarship eligibility or offer of admission.
CELEBRATE!
SUMMER
Congratulate yourself on making it to the finish line. You are on your way! You are ready for college, and college is ready for you. Don’t forget to thank your parents, counselors, teachers, and mentors for helping you reach this milestone. And remember - those same adults are there to cheer you on and offer support as you continue on your journey.
