12th Grade Checklist for Students and Families
From applications to decisions, check out our senior year checklist.
Fall (September – November)
-
Stay active in extracurriculars and keep up your grades — the first semester sets the tone.
-
Know your deadlines and create a calendar of important dates for applications, testing, and scholarships.
-
Take or retake the SAT/ACT if needed.
-
Visit colleges you’re considering (or attend virtual sessions).
-
Fill out the FAFSA as soon as it opens (October 1) and follow up on any needed documents.
-
Start submitting your college applications, especially if applying Early Action/Early Decision.
-
Apply for scholarships (many deadlines start in the fall).
Winter (December – February)
Students
-
Submit remaining college applications by regular decision deadlines.
-
Meet with your counselor to make sure transcripts and recommendation letters have been sent.
-
Keep your grades strong — midyear reports matter.
-
Continue applying for scholarships (new opportunities often open in January/February).
Spring (March – April)
-
Compare your acceptance and financial aid offers carefully.
-
Visit colleges again, especially admitted student days, to help make your decision.
-
Stay involved in extracurriculars — colleges still look at your second semester.
Late Spring and Summer
- Reviewed and compared financial aid offers from colleges and made an informed decision.
-
Choose your school and send your deposit (usually by May 1).
-
Applied for scholarships and tracked any awards you received.
-
Confirmed housing and meal plan arrangements at your chosen college.
-
Registered for orientation and any placement tests required by your school.
-
Planned for the transition: discuss budgeting, time management, and what to bring to college.
-
Celebrate your decision!
Advice for Parents, Guardians, and Families
- Create a StudentAid.gov account
- Work with your student on filling out the FAFSA form.
- Check out the Hesaa's Going to College in New Jersey Magazine
- Explore the different financial aid tools available at your disposal:
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's financial path to graduation
- Considerations when Taking out Federal Student Loan
Get the Checklist: