Vistation College Timeline -
The Planning Process
9th Grade
In this first year of high school, students are encouraged to focus on academics, challenge themselves, and find their passions.
10th Grade
Students continue to develop an academic and social identity.
Counselors meet with students to introduce themselves, encourage good study habits, and introduce the college prep tests students will begin to take that year.
While it is early to get to specific with searching for colleges, brainstorming desired characteristics of future colleges may help the process based on:
Size - Location - Offered Majors - Coed/Single Sex - Religious Affiliation - Cost
If travels bring you near some college of interest, you may want to look as a tourist.
October
Take the PLAN and PSAT practice entrance exams.
Winter
Utilize PLAN and PSAT item analysis to locate weaknesses
Begin using test prep materials to focus on improvement in those areas.
April
Attend College Night.
June
Take SAT II subject exams if desired.
11th Grade
The process begins in earnest. Brainstorm specific colleges and attend school meetings with college representatives beginning in January.
Counselors have individual meetings with students and parents.
Summer
Visit college campuses if desired.
Fall
Take the PSAT practice college entrance exam.
January
Register for the SAT I and ACT college entrance exams. Attend individual counseling session.
February/March/April
Attend College Night. Students will work with counselors to develop a list of colleges that fits the student's needs and interests.
May
Narrow the list of colleges with counselors and develop a “May List,” which they will use their senior year. This is a product of the student's college dreams, academic profile, and realistic criteria; it is the blueprint for the application process.
June
Take SAT II subject exams if desired.
12th Grade
Meet individually with counselors to discuss college essays and college applications.
File applications.
Summer
Begin working on college essay(s). Continue to visit colleges and do research.
Fall
Retake ACT, SAT I and/or SAT II if needed.
File early admission and early decision applications.
Athletes apply to the NCAA clearing house as soon as possible.
Apply for financial aid.
Visit college campuses.
December
Attend Financial Aid Night.
January
Request midterm grades from the registrar for colleges, if needed.
April 15
Pay taxes.
College response deadline: colleges with rolling admission will respond to applications as they receive them. All other colleges must notify applicants by the 15th.
May 1
Deposit deadline. Deposit must be made to the chosen college to hold a spot.
