A Timeline for Effective College Searching

Spring and Summer before Senior Year

• Develop a long list (15-20) of colleges.
• Take the ACT or SAT.
• Read everything you can about each college and call the admissions offices to request information and ask questions.

Fall of Senior Year

• Using the information you have collected, narrow down to a visit list (6-8.)
• Call at least one week ahead of your planned visit and make any special requests you may have (meeting with a professor, watching a rehearsal, attending a practice, etc.)
• Visit each school either individually or on a group visit day.
• Complete financial aid estimators for each of your college choices that offer that particular service.
• After visiting, decide at which colleges you will make application.
• Develop a chart for each college including application deadlines, scholarship deadlines, procedures, special application items needed (essays, portfolios, resumes, special recommendations, etc.)
• Ask teachers and counselors for recommendations at least one month before they are due and provide addressed and stamped envelopes.
• Apply to each college.

Spring of Senior Year

• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) after January 1, if you wish to apply for need-based aid.
• Re-visit your top three colleges.
• Make your college choice by May 1.

Summer after Graduation

• Plan, prepare, pack, and play a little, too!

Provided by Adrian College, Office of Admissions, in Adrian, Michigan.