Juniors (11th Grade)

September

Prepare for and take PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test  (NMSQT). This is the only time that the test scores will be considered for the National Merit Scholarship competition.

October

• Make a list of colleges or universities you may want to attend and discuss them with your parents and counselor.
• Discuss your financial plans.

December

• Keep looking for scholarships and financial aid resources (or get started now, if you haven't already).
• Fast Web www.fastweb.com
• www.finaid.org
• www.aie.org

January

• Send letters or e-mails to the colleges on your list requesting information. Start evaluating these schools.
• Begin using www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov to get an idea of what your EFC (Expected Family Contribution) will be.

February

• Plan visits with your parents to the schools that interest you.  If possible, arrange to be on campus while classes are in session.  Contact each school's admission and financial aid office before visiting that school.  If you can't get to the actual schools, attend local or regional college fairs.
• Sign up for and prepare for the last ACT and SAT on the last test dates of this academic year. You should take both tests.  The Texas colleges you're considering must use the better score. Most other colleges will also use the better score.

March

• Begin to narrow your list of colleges and career choices.  If you intend to apply for an ROTC scholarship, begin this process now.

May

• Update your list of activities and awards.  Consider taking a course at the local community college this summer.  Look for a summer job or volunteer activity.

June

• Begin writing your resume and start assembling writing samples, portfolios, audition tapes, or any other information that you may use in your college application.

July

• Try to narrow your school choices - selecting 2 to 3 schools is recommended.

August

• If you're planning to attend a school that has an early decision deadline, start the admission and scholarship application process.  Keep copies of everything you send them.  Be aware of deadlines for admission, scholarships and financial aid - each date will probably be different at each school.