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Counselor's Corner » Twelfth Grade Timeline

Twelfth Grade Timeline

Use this timeline to make sure you are accomplishing everything you need to in order to reach your maximum potential!

  • September
  • Create a file for each target school.  Be sure to include application requirements and deadlines. 
  • Attend all meetings, college fairs, financial aid nights hosted by your high school.
  • Meet with your counselor and ask questions!
  • Continue to polish your resume.  Don’t be afraid to share your accomplishments.
  • Print practice applications for all of your target schools, even if you plan to apply online.  Make sure you have all the necessary information to complete the application correctly.
  • Ask your teachers for letters of recommendation.
  • Register for the ACT/SAT.  Many students will improve their score by testing a second time.
  • October
  • Work on applications.  If applying in Texas you can apply using the website https://www.applytexas.org/.  If applying outside of Texas or at several private universities you can use the website https://www.commonapp.org.
  • Think about possible essay topics and begin brainstorming your response. Create a google doc for your essay and have an English teacher read it.  
  • Use your college days to visit campuses.  You get 2 days as a senior. (Requires prior approval from campus principal. Link to requesting document is below.)
  • FAFSA opens for the new school year. Gather the information needed and get your FSAID. Click the link to Create FSA-ID.
  • November
  • Continue to work on applications and essays.
  • Talk to your parents about your financial aid needs.  Look for scholarships available at your target schools.
  • Watch your deadlines.  DO NOT PROCRASTINATE!!
  • Be sure your ACT/SAT scores are where you need them to be.  If not, register to retake the test.
  • Work on your FAFSA! Click the link if you have a FSA-ID and begin your Fafsa Application.
  • December
  • Study Hard!!!
  • Use the internet to research scholarships.
  • Have others proofread your applications and essays.
  • Continue to update your resume.
  • Keep copies of any applications you send.
  • Complete FAFSA!
  • January
  • No Senioritis!
  • Talk to your parents about filing their income tax returns ASAP!  You will need this information for financial aid applications.
  • Complete your FAFSA!!
  • February
  • Complete your FAFSA!!
  • Keep your grades up!
  • Continue to work on scholarship applications.
  • March
  • FAFSA, FAFSA, FAFSA…Get it completed!
  • Notify your counselor of an acceptance letters you receive.
  • Continue working on scholarship applications.
  • April
  • Review and discuss financial aid options. 
  • Continue working on scholarship applications.
  • May
  • Plan your summer employment.
  • If needed, research loans to make up for any financial needs.
  • Study for your finals!
  • Begin thinking about what your other college needs may be (computer, transportation, books,        housing arrangements, etc.).
  • June
  • Let your counselor know where to send your final transcript.
  • Send “Thank You” notes to organization who have awarded you a scholarship.
  • GRADUATION!!!!