College Counseling Timeline

JUNIORS

October
Obtain student account for Naviance
Take PSAT

January/February
Meet individually with the Director of College Counseling
Begin researching schools utilizing initial college list and Naviance
Start making plans for college visits during breaks

March
Visit college campuses over Spring Break
Prepare for the May SAT

April
Continue working on SAT preparation
Continue researcing colleges

May
Make college visit plans for the summer
Take the SAT at Darrow School

June - August
Take SAT II when advised
Visit college campuses
Begin preparing college essays
Register with the Common Application

SENIORS

September
Complete College Questionnaire
Meet with the Director of College Counseling
Update college lists
Register for SAT I/SAT II and ACT
Check on requirements for each college (deadlines, fee, portfolio, interview, SATs, etc.)
Obtain all necessary applications and supplementary applications
Plan visits to colleges during October Break
Attend meetings with admissions representatives from visiting colleges
Ask teachers to write recommendations
Continue work on college essays

October
Arrange to take the TOEFL (international students)
Attend local college fairs when available
Visit colleges during October Break
Take ACT exam
Take the SAT I or SAT II exams, for Early Decision and Early Action applications
Complete Early Decision and Early Action applications
Continue work on Regular Decision applications
Prepare final drafts of college essays

November
Take SAT I at Darrow School
Complete college essays
Follow up on teacher recommendations
Visit colleges during Thanksgiving Break as necessary

December
Complete applications with January deadlines
Take SAT II if needed
Complete supporting materials such as portfolios, audition tapes, and supplements

January
Apply for financial aid; send the FAFSA and Profile as soon as possible after January 1
Finish and send any applications with February or March deadlines

April
Receive replies from colleges
Send deposit to college of your choice before May1