For Students‎ > ‎

College Planning Checklist

(Courtesy of Seattle University, Office of Undergraduate Admissions) 


Freshman Year

  • Take study skills improvement courses to show you how to study and manage your time in high school and in college.
  • Attend all classes and maintain high grades. Stay on track.

Sophomore Year

  • Fall
    • Make certain you're taking academically rigorous courses.
    • Make a list of your interests and career goals.
    • Read about majors and careers you are interested in pursuing.
  • Spring
    • Meet with your high school counselor to discuss your college plans.
    • Plan to take rigorous academics in your junior year.
    • Find out more about college costs and financial aid.
    • FInd and apply for volunteer, summer internships, or part-time opportunities.
  •  Summer
    • Keep a calendar of important deadlines and dates of the next two years.
    • Participate in volunteer, summer internships, or part-time opportunities.
    • Start searching for colleges/universities.
    • Visit colleges or browse their websites for more information.

Junior Year

  • Fall
    • Register for the October PSAT or ACT PLAN.
    • Request information from colleges and/or universities.
    • Visit the NACAC Fair in Seattle.
  • Winter
    • Check dates for the SAT or ACT tests.
  • Spring
    • Meet with your high school counselor to plan for senior year.
    • Continue taking rigorous academics next year.
    • Register for the SAT or ACT in May or June.
  • Summer
    • Participate in volunteer, summer internships, or part-time opportunities.
    • Visit colleges or browse their websites for more information.
    • Research scholarship opportunities.

Senior Year

  • Fall
    • Sign up and register to take the SAT or ACT.
    • Attend the Preview Day events at colleges and universities.
    • Request recommendations from teachers and counselors.
    • Prepare your admission applications.
    • Visit the NACAC Fair in Seattle.
    • Do not succumb to Senioritis.
  • Winter
    • Submit admission applications.
    • Submit Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA).
  • Spring
    • Visit colleges and universities for the Admitted Student Open House events.
    • Respond to colleges/universities about your admission by May 1.  
  • Summer
    • Enjoy a safe summer before you start freshman year.
    • Attend summer orientation.