What Seniors Should Tackle in August
Happy August and Happy Back to School! Hope you all had a wonderful summer and you're ready to tackle another successful school year. As we begin another month (can you believe it?!), I've included a helpful list of resources below to help guide your to-do items. Take a look at these helpful tips below on what to check off your list in August.
12th Graders:
This is a critical time for seniors. By this point, you should hopefully have a close-to-final college list and be working on your college applications.
Letters of recommendation - This is a good time to check in with your recommenders to make sure they know your deadlines. And if you haven't already, read this guide and then ask your teacher(s) if they’ll write a letter on your behalf.
College applications are live - Start familiarizing yourself with the information you need to gather. Some of the most popular applications include The Common Application, Coalition Application, University of California, Cal State University, SUNY and/or UCAS.
How to Write a College Essay - Wondering how to get started on your college essays? This step by step guide and this video will walk you through the process.
Do you identify as Undocumented or a member of the LGBTQ+ Community? If you’re wondering how much to disclose in your personal statement, these guides might help you map out your content.
How to Decide Whether to Apply Early Decision or Early Action - Get answers to the most common questions and make sure you understand the limitations and the financial implications. ED/EA deadlines fall as early as October 15th.
FAFSA + CSS PROFILE - These two forms are critical to your financial aid process. All schools require the FAFSA; the CSS PROFILE is only required by some schools and scholarships. Submission windows open on October 1st.
EOP Application Guide - Educational Opportunity Programs offer extra resources and support to help under resourced students succeed in college. If you’re applying to Cal State Universities, this guide is a must-read.
Connect with college admissions reps, either at your school, online or in your community. These sessions are important opportunities to let colleges know you’re considering attending their institution, which in some cases can help your chances.
QuestBridge and Posse Foundation - See if you qualify for these great opportunities to win a full ride to college.
Create a spreadsheet of requirements and deadlines - Keep track of application deadlines, number of required recommendation letters, scholarship deadlines, portfolio requirements, etc. all in one organized spot. We will work on creating/updating this in your next upcoming session.