Seniors

• Take the ACT.
  • You should have at least two ACT scores by January
  • The ACT Writing Test is optional. If you are going to apply to a school out-of-state, you may have to include the ACT writing portion.
• Consider taking the SAT, especially if you are considering select schools out of state.
  • The SAT includes a writing section.

NOTE: You must have ACT or SAT send scores to the college/s you are applying. St. X does not send test scores. It is the student's responsibility to have scores sent.

• Start applying to colleges—especially state schools and schools with rolling admission.
• Sign up to see your counselor. Fill out a transcript request form so that your transcript can be sent to the colleges.
• Fill out your application on-line.
• Download all teacher and counselor recommendation forms and take them to the counselor and teacher you wish to write your recommendation.
  • Request letters of recommendation at least two weeks in advance.
  • NOTE: A $10 late fee will be charged if the high school report requiring a counselor's recommendation does not allow at leas 10 days for processing. This may include a form called the Secondary School Report (Not all applications require these forms).

NOTE: Deadlines are very important! Applications for admission and scholarships that are submitted past the deadline may be disregarded. You may be one of the last candidates considered or you may not be considered at all. Bring transcript, forms and letters of recommendation to the Counseling Department at least 10 days before the due date or the student will be assessed a $10 late fee.

• Check to see if the school to which you are applying accepts or uses the Common Application. This one application can be used for a variety of schools. It requires an essay, and a teacher and counselor recommendation.
• Work on developing your application essays by consulting your English teacher.
• Some out-of-state schools may require Subject Tests (SAT II) for admission. They should be taken in December.
• The Federal Application for Student Financial Aid (FAFSA) is required by most colleges. You can file this form beginning in October. The earlier you file, the better chance you have of funds being available. Other than merit scholarships from the universities and colleges, private businesses, organizations, community scholarships, and loans, FAFSA is the only way to receive grants or loan money for college. Some colleges may also require the CSS Profile or their own forms.
• Arrange to visit the colleges and universities you are considering.
• Keep up your senior year grades. Although many of your acceptances will be based on your three-year grades, colleges will expect your senior year schedule to be strong and your grades equally good.
• Some select schools, usually out-of-state, may require SAT ll subject tests. The application will tell you what is required.
• Meet with any college admission representatives who visit St. X. They typically set up in the lobby during lunch periods.

• Once you have decided to attend a specific college and you plan to live on-campus, be sure to send in your housing application as soon as possible.
• Many colleges require the high school to send mid-year reports. This is usually done at the end of January. The Counseling Department will send them. This is one important reason to keep up your senior year grades.
• By April 15, you will receive all admission decisions from colleges. You need to make your decision by May 1, and notify the college that you are planning to attend. You should also notify the colleges where you have decided not to enroll. If you have been “wait-listed” by a college, you should notify them if you wish to remain on the list.
• Be sure to send your deposit by May 1 to the college you will attend. Do not “double deposit” to more than one school. It is unethical and both colleges could drop you if discovered.
• Inform the Counseling Department of your final college choice so they can send your final transcript.