Your College Planning Timeline: A Grade-by-Grade Guide for High School Students and Families
Planning for college can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're just starting high school or heading into senior year, having a clear timeline can help you focus on what matters most, when it matters most.
This checklist is designed to give students and families a big-picture view of the college application process. You don’t need to have every box checked. The most important thing is to know what your next step is. Find your place on the timeline and take it from there.
🌲 Evergreen Advice for Every High Schooler
Some things matter every year—no matter your grade. Keep these habits in mind throughout high school:
Challenge yourself academically and practice self-advocacy (ask for help when you need it).
Get involved in extracurriculars that interest you. Try new things. Step into leadership roles.
Make the most of your summers—volunteer, work, take a class, or join a program.
Reflect on your interests: What excites you intellectually? What motivates you? What do you want to learn more about?
9th & 10th Grade: Start Strong
Develop solid study skills and time management strategies.
Plan a summer activity that explores an interest or introduces you to something new.
Start preparing for AP or IB exams in May.
Consider taking a practice ACT or SAT to see which test feels like a better fit.
If you’re an athlete, look into NCAA and NAIA eligibility rules for college recruiting.
11th Grade: Build Momentum
Winter:
Start building a college list with Reach, Target, and Likely schools.
Sign up for emails from colleges—and check your inbox regularly!
Attend college fairs and take virtual or in-person tours.
Create a plan for standardized testing (SAT vs. ACT).
Meet with your counselor again to talk about your college search and senior year classes.
Explore summer opportunities—programs, internships, or jobs—that align with your interests.
Spring:
Ask two teachers for letters of recommendation by the end of March.
Start exploring the Common App.
Finalize your summer plans.
Begin brainstorming college essay topics and start writing.
Take practice SAT/ACT exams.
Research specific colleges’ application requirements.
Narrow down your college list based on your goals and preferences.
Draft a resume that highlights your academics, extracurriculars, and leadership.
Summer Before Senior Year: Get Organized
Keep learning, working, volunteering—and have some fun, too.
Aim to have your college list 85% finalized by early August.
Fill out the Common App activity section and polish your resume.
Write a strong first draft of your personal statement by late July or early August.
Begin working on supplemental essays for your top schools.
Check summer reading and assignments for your senior year.
Find out which colleges offer interviews and sign up if available.
Create an application timeline with key deadlines for each school.
Senior Year - Fall: Apply with Confidence
Finalize your college list and know each school’s deadlines and requirements.
Check in with your counselor and request transcripts.
Submit applications for Early Action/Early Decision deadlines.
Finalize your college essays (well before they’re due!).
Attend school visits and events from college reps—introduce yourself and follow up.
Thank your teachers for writing recommendations and update them on your progress.
Wrap up any final standardized tests.
Complete FAFSA and CSS Profile (typically opens October 1).
Senior Year - Winter & Spring: Decisions and Next Steps
Finish remaining applications by mid-December to avoid January crunch time.
Monitor your college portals and email for updates.
Expect regular decision notifications by early April.
Compare offers—both admissions and financial aid—and decide by May 1.
Activate your student portal and complete your enrollment checklist.
Need personalized support through this process? I help students find their voice and tell their story through powerful, authentic college essays. Reach out anytime at geoff@collegeessayjournalist.com.
