College Checklist

Back to School? - Your Plan To Get College-Ready?

Now that school is back in session (or very soon to be), you may be wondering what should we be doing to make sure we’re ready for college.? This is probably front of mind for families with high school seniors, but if you’re student is looking to get into a competitive college it should be top of mind even for families with freshman.???

Here are the highlights of the things you should be doing based on what grade your child is in.? You can also get the full checklist for each on my website with parent actions on my website.?

Seniors?

• Finalize your list of colleges you will apply to, considering factors such as admission requirements and affordability?

• Sign up and take the SAT or ACT exams if you haven’t done so already. Consider retaking the test if you are not satisfied with your scores.?

• Continue working on your college application essays and personal statements?

• Request transcripts from your high school to be sent to the colleges you are applying to?

• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for financial aid?

• Prepare and organize all the necessary documents, including application forms, essays, recommendation letters, and test scores?

Full senior checklist

Juniors?

• Meet with your school counselor to discuss your college plans and ensure you are on track with required courses and credits.?

• Register for and take the?PSAT/NMSQT ?(Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) to gauge your readiness for the SAT and potentially qualify for scholarships.?

• Start preparing for the SAT/ACT exams by using study guides, online resources, or attending test prep courses.?

• Maintain a strong academic performance and take challenging courses that align with your interests and college goals.?

• Get involved in extracurricular activities and assume leadership roles when possible. Quality of involvement is more important than quantity, so focus on activities that genuinely interest you.?

• Research and attend college fairs, information sessions, and virtual events to connect with college representatives and learn more about different institutions.?

Full junior checklist ?

Freshman and Sophomores??

• Maintain a strong academic performance and take challenging courses that align with your interests and college goals.?

• Get involved in extracurricular activities and assume leadership roles when possible. Quality of involvement is more important than quantity, so focus on activities that genuinely interest you.?

• Research and attend college fairs, information sessions, and virtual events to connect with college representatives and learn more about different institutions.?

• Keep track of your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service in a document you can use for future scholarships and college applications.?

• Discuss your college aspirations with your parents, teachers, and school counselor to gather insights and guidance.?

• Meet with your school counselor to discuss your college plans and ensure you are on track with required courses and credits. Ask your guidance counselor about AP courses, exams, and PSAT test dates. Ask what you should do to meet your goals. Things like specific courses, test prep, etc.?

Full Freshman and Sophomore Checklist

About Mike Hunsberger, ChFC?, CFP?, CCFC, MQFP

Mike Hunsberger is the owner and lead planner at Next Mission Financial Planning. Next Mission Financial Planning provides comprehensive financial planning and investment management for military and veteran clients. Mike started the firm after spending 25 years in the Air Force.

Schedule a call with Mike