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Freshmen
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Sophomores
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Juniors
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Seniors
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Fall
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- Meet with counselor and parents to discuss academic goals
- Research careers (visit Bridges.com)
- Parents - Research financial strategies for college (Smart Strategies from Kiplinger.com)
- Start a file for college information
- Ask about taking the PSAT (great practice)
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- Solidify career plans
- Choose favorite colleges (visit usnew.com's college ranking page)
- Take the PSAT
- Decide if a college exam workshop is needed (to improve SAT/ACT scores)
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- Take the SAT or ACT
- Begin researching gift aid (scholarships/grants)
- Attend college fairs
- Volunteer and track hours
- Participate in clubs
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- Submit early applications, if necessary (watch deadlines closely, some in early Fall)
- Ask for written recommendations
- Begin essay work
- Attend financial aid presentations
- Register/take the SAT/ACT if necessary
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Winter
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- Ask parents to review college savings
- Research financial strategies for college (Smart Strategies from Kiplinger.com)
- Participate actively in clubs/sports/organizations
- Volunteer and track hours
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- Keep applying/searching for scholarships and grants
- Focus on grades (US News offers a GPA calculator)
- Register for spring SAT/ACT
- Volunteer and track hours
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- Obtain financial aid forms
- Visit/register with FAFSA online (online PIN registration takes time, start early)
- Complete/submit FAFSA (free application for Federal student aid) after Jan. 1
- Take SAT Language tests (if needed)
- Complete essays and admission procedures
- Send thank-yous to reference providers
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Spring
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- Spend a work day with a mentor in an interesting job
- Focus on grades (US News offers a GPA calculator)
- Volunteer and track hours
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- Focus on grades (US News offers a GPA calculator)
- Volunteer and track hours
- Take the SAT for deadlines and early admissions
- Visit potential college choices during spring break - prepare questions in advance
- Participate in college visitations on your campus
- Take AP exams, if applicable
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- Receive acceptance letters/review offers
- Choose college/send application deposit (and notify other colleges of your choice)
- Send medical forms if physicals required
- Research student loans, if necessary
- Obtain schedules and course descriptions
- Review requirements and graduate!
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Summer
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- Register for the October SAT/ACT
- Narrow school choices and send for catalogs
- Research admission requirements of favorite colleges
- Visit college campuses (note AMTRAK offers discount coupons for student travel) speak to students, administrators and faculty
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College Planning Calendar for