College Admissions Timeline: A Month-by-Month Checklist
A clear timeline takes the chaos out of college admissions. Here is what to do and when.
Junior Year
Fall: research colleges and start test prep. Winter: take PSAT/NMSQT. Spring: take SAT or ACT. Summer: visit campuses, start essay brainstorming.
Senior Year Fall
September: finalize school list and essay drafts. October: submit early applications. November: complete remaining applications. December: follow up on financial aid.
Senior Year Spring
March-April: receive decisions, compare offers. May 1: commit to your chosen school. Summer: complete enrollment steps and housing applications.
