Begin thinking about your abilities, preferences, and personal qualities Begin searching colleges on-line and in person Take either the ACT or SAT (or both) Attend college/career fair at Texarkana College Create an account at www.ACT.org or www.collegeboard.com to help you get organized Share your college plans with your high school counselor Sign up to take the PSAT/NMSQT at school Begin taking practice ACT/SAT tests Plan to attend the Financial Aid workshop in the area if available.

Review your PSAT/NMSQT score report in December or January Continue seeking information on possible college majors and college choices at either www.ACT.org or www.collegeboard.com Use this time to organize a portfolio of school activities and accomplishments Study for exams and keep up your GPA.

Visit several local colleges to get a feel for what works for you Develop a list of 3-5 colleges you are seriously considering Take another ACT or SAT Sign up for classes your senior year that are challenging Increase community service hours by volunteering at local charities.

Integrate campus tours into your vacation plans Request applications and financial aid information from the colleges you are serious about Check important dates at those colleges; some colleges have early deadlines or rolling admissions.

Register for either the ACT or SAT Begin taking practice ACT/SAT tests Narrow your college search to 3 colleges Create a calendar with important dates from those colleges *test dates, fees, and deadlines *application due dates and fees *financial aid deadlines *recommendations and transcripts due dates *high school transcript request deadlines Request a copy of your transcript from the counselor Visit the colleges you are seriously considering in person Ask for recommendations. Give each person your resume and any forms Write first drafts of your application essays and ask teachers, parents, and friends to read them If applicable, register with NCAA.

Go over all applications to ensure that you know what information must be submitted Remember that most regular applications are due between January 1 and February 15. Honors colleges may have earlier deadlines Keep copies of everything you send to colleges.  Have your high school counselor send your official transcript to colleges Remind your parents to file their taxes early so that you can send in the FAFSA Keep copies of everything Check McLeod website for scholarship information.

Receive acceptance letters and financial aid offers by mid-April Evaluate financial aid offers from colleges with the expected cost of living Visit your final choice before accepting, if you haven't already Set up a meeting with the Financial Aid department at that college Set up an appointment with the Housing Department Make a calendar of due dates for fees and deposits.

Have your high school send a final transcript to your college If applicable, send a final transcript to NCAA Finalize financial aid paperwork Read all orientation materials Spend time with your family and get ready for the exciting year ahead!