Stay on track for senior year. The VSAC high school planning calendar will help keep you on schedule for college open houses, visit days, test dates, and more.

Meet with your school counselor to review your transcript and discuss career options and future plans. Explore college before you graduate by taking a college course for "dual credit" this year. Check it out!

Mark your calendar to attend a free Paying for College presentation this fall at a nearby high school. Talk about college costs and financing with your parents. Confused? Ask these questions (PDF) and go to VSAC for more information.

Looking to improve test scores? Retake standardized tests this fall. Register for the October SAT or SAT subject tests, and the ACT. Prepare ahead online or at the VRC workshop "Preparing for the SAT and ACT" on 9/29/10.

Attend open houses and college fairs. Ask questions to get info to help you narrow your list. Go on college Web sites and consult blogs (PDF) at www.unigo.com for different views of what other students have to say.

Line up recommendations (PDF) with teachers who know your work. Create a resume of accomplishments and clubs, sports, and community service involvement for reference. Think about what sets you apart from the crowd.

Write college essays (PDF). This is a time to present the real “you.” Brainstorm using sample essay questions (PDF) and essay writing tips (PDF).

Check your profile. Do your social network sites (Facebook!) represent a view you want to share with everyone? College admissions staff (and scholarship donors) visit the Web to find a more complete picture of applicants. Show your best side.

Attend a free Paying for College presentation at a nearby high school between early October and mid-December. Can’t make a date? View the online presentation. Estimate financial aid with the FAFSA4caster.

Applying for early admission? Check the forms needed (such as the Common App) and review each college’s financial aid policy. You may be required to apply using estimated figures. The CSS Profile, if needed, is available October 1.

Finish up college essays (PDF). Focus on your experiences. Showcase what makes you different, what motivates you. Ask a school counselor or teacher to review your final draft, and proofread carefully.

Get on campus. Visit colleges and universities during the long weekend of October 21-24. Schedule an admissions interview (PDF) and ask financial aid questions (PDF). Stay in a dorm if possible, attend a class, and talk to as many students as you can to get the campus vibe.

Last call for the SAT! Register in October for the November and December tests. Prepare ahead. Remember to send your best scores to colleges.

Wrap up recommendation requests (PDF). Make sure teachers and counselors are aware of your colleges’ deadlines for transcripts and other materials. You may need to submit your application by November 1 for early action or early decision.

Evaluate your list. You’ll be more likely to get merit-based grants and scholarships at institutions that seek you. Increase affordability (PDF) by applying to lesser-known schools where you’ll be the big fish, and consider a “two plus two” plan.

Meet deadlines for early admission or college scholarships. Keep these tips for applying (PDF) in mind and polish your application essays (PDF). Don’t forget to proofread! Ask your counselor to review the final draft.

Apply for scholarships early. Pick up the VSAC scholarship booklet, detailing more than 150 scholarships for Vermonters, from your high school (or e-mail publications@vsac.org).

Register for the December ACT test if needed. Prepare ahead, and check that colleges receive your best scores.

Estimate financial aid with the FAFSA4caster and learn how financial aid works. Obtain federal personal identification numbers (PINs), for student and one parent, needed to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online.

Show that you're interested. Set up interviews (PDF) in person or by phone with admissions reps (if available). Be yourself, and have an answer for “why do you want to go here?” Find out what colleges look for (PDF).

Visit campuses when possible. Go on a campus tour, attend an info session, eat a meal, attend a class, and talk to other students. There's nothing like being there to help you get a sense of campus life.

Keep on truckin'! Maintain your grades. Colleges want to see how you handle challenging senior-year coursework. You may even want to consider signing up for a college course for the spring semester and get dual credit. Learn more.

Application countdown — this is it! Check on recommendations (PDF), evaluate and finalize essays (PDF), and carefully proofread all documents. Be certain your application is correct before you hit “Submit."

Send your best test scores (including SAT subject tests, if needed, in addition to the the SAT or ACT) to schools or programs that require them. Follow up to verify that the scores are received.

Seek out scholarships. There may be December deadlines for merit or other scholarships. E-mail publications@vsac.org for the VSAC scholarships booklet.

Early action and early decision notifications may arrive this month. Early action means you can compare offers (Excel) with regular admissions. Early decision is binding — you must go if admitted.

Put your parents to work. In December, obtain federal PINs (student and parent) for the FAFSA and gather tax documents for financial aid forms. Check if the CSS Profile is required, and update your financial aid checklist (PDF).

Considering a gap year? Apply now to training programs or colleges. Once you get in, you can decide whether or not you want to defer for a year. Completing applications while you’re still in high school is a lot easier than tackling the process once you’re out.

Watch out for degree fraud or college funding scams. Never pay to search for scholarships or college programs. Avoid offers that guarantee aid or promise a degree for a fee (the “no tests” ploy). Real programs = real work!

Ace those exams! Show what you can do in the future, now. Is a previous grade less than stellar? Let admissions counselors know why. Explain any challenges, and how you overcame them. To stay on track, sign up for e-mail reminders from VSAC.

Winter forecast: forms ahead. The focus (while you wait to hear about admissions decisions) turns to financial aid applications: the FAFSA, the Vermont grant, scholarships, and the CSS Profile (if needed). VSAC can help you avoid a paperwork blizzard.

Early decision students must withdraw applications to other schools. If you are admitted early action, you may compare offers (Excel) with other schools and make your selection decision later on. Follow up promptly to any admissions requests.

Need financial aid directions? View the Paying for College presentation. Attend free workshops on filling out the forms at locations throughout Vermont during January and February. Remember, aid can be used for non-college educational programs, too.

Fill out the FAFSA. Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid as soon as possible. Use estimated income figures if needed — you can make corrections later. The key is to send it in by your programs’ deadlines! FAFSA tips.

Next step: the Vermont grant, which can be used to attend schools in Vermont or elsewhere. Applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis, so submit yours early. Check your application status at myVSAC.

Detour: the CSS Profile. Some schools use the Profile and/or other institutional forms for financial aid consideration. Check each college’s requirements and deadlines.

Apply for VSAC-assisted scholarships. Pick up the VSAC scholarships booklet or e-mail publications@vsac.org.

Check out additional scholarships. Investigate college or university awards and search locally first. Then look nationally. Pursue all options, but beware of scams — you should never have to pay to seek funding.

Continue the conversation. Where possible, set up interviews (PDF) with college alumni (in person or by phone). Wait-listed for early action or early decision? Find out if you can send in additional essays or recommendations to strengthen your application.

Keep your grades up — they still matter! Colleges have the right to revoke your acceptance if your grades fall senior year. As you prepare ahead for that high school diploma, check in with your school counselor to make sure you’ve completed all requirements.

Scheduled maintenance due. Make sure materials are in for financial aid. Check your admission status, apply for scholarships and the Vermont grant, and keep copies of all correspondence. For better mileage, keep winter idling to a minimum.

Turn in all documents to meet the early-bird deadline for VSAC-assisted scholarships. Continue to apply for other scholarships. Check locally, then look for state and national awards. Tip: reuse those application essays, tweaking them to fit questions.

The Vermont grant can help you attend schools in Vermont or elsewhere. Log in to myVSAC to see if additional information is required, and follow up with any requests.

Review your Student Aid Report (SAR), which you’ll receive after you submit the FAFSA. Make corrections if needed. Expect to receive financial aid notifications from schools or programs in March and April. Questions? Here’s help.

Submit the CSS Profile, if required. Send signed copies of tax returns and additional forms by each college’s deadline.

Take another test drive. Still unsure about where to go? Visit campuses during winter break. Stay overnight in the dorm, talk to students, and get the information you need to make an informed decision.

Postmark applications for VSAC-assisted scholarships! Apply (with all completed documents) by the deadline to be considered for the 150 scholarships VSAC administers to Vermont students. Search for other scholarships as well.

Stay in the fast lane for financial aid. Review your Student Aid Report (SAR), received after you submit the FAFSA, and make corrections as needed. Log-in to myVSAC to check the status of your Vermont grant application.

Follow up with details to avoid road blocks or delays. Do you need to send tax returns to financial aid offices? Schools that required the CSS Profile may ask for signed copies of 2010 federal returns by a certain deadline.

Enrolled in an AP class? Check with your school to be sure you are registered by March 15 for the AP exams, given in early May. Use VSAC’s online test-prep tools to prepare.

Compare offers. College acceptances and financial aid notifications may start arriving this month. Use VSAC’s online Award Letter Comparison Tool (Excel) to evaluate your choices. Look for remaining notifications by April 1.

Contemplating a gap year? Many colleges allow you to defer admission for one year to pursue an internship, volunteer (community service such as AmeriCorps, for example), or take an educational trip. Plan your course now.

Not sure about college majors (PDF)? Don’t worry — you’re not alone. The good news is that you don’t need to know what you want to do right now. Take this time to explore your career options using Vermont Guidance Central.

Think summer (and beyond!). Will you get a summer job to earn money for college expenses? Volunteer for a cause? Plan ahead so you'll make your time between high school graduation and college count.

Decision time! Compare offers using VSAC’s online Comparison Tool (Excel), then select a school and place a deposit by May 1. Keep in mind that financial aid can be used for many types of education after high school. Check with VSAC for details.

Look for Vermont grant notifications! Check your application status at myVSAC. Update the FAFSA once 2010 tax returns are complete and send in signed copies if needed to stay on track for financial aid.

Undecided? Get on campus if possible. Spend a night in the dorm, attend classes, and talk to students and faculty. Can you imagine yourself there in the fall? For an inside look at what other students have to say, go to www.unigo.com.

Make your final choice! Most colleges require students to select a school and place a deposit by May 1. Sign and send back your financial aid award notification letter (PDF), too. (Be aware that the addresses for financial aid and admissions may be different.)

Prepare for AP exams given in May using free online AP test-prep tools. Review what to bring on exam day. You may get college credit or entrance into higher-level courses if you score well on the test.

Firm up summer plans. Will you get a job? Attend a summer learning program? Take advantage of opportunities designed specifically for high school students.

Doing a gap year? Find out the requirements for deferring admission and make sure you complete all the forms needed for your program to approve the request. (Some schools may require that information when you accept the admissions offer.)

Focus on your studies. If grades slump in your final semester, you may face probation from the college or even withdrawal of an admissions offer.

Congrats! You’ve made your choice! As you celebrate, check that your deposit and acceptance arrived at the admissions office, and that your signed notification letter (PDF) made it to the financial aid office. (These may be separate campus addresses.)

Fill in the financing gaps. Many families use federal education loans — Stafford loans (for students) and PLUS loans (for parents) — to finance a portion of the college bill. Learn more. Contact VSAC if you have any changes to your Vermont grant status.

Take AP exams in early May. Arrange to have exam scores sent to your college for possible course credit. AP courses or dual-credit classes you’ve taken may help you qualify for upper-level courses (saving you effort and money).

You’ve got mail! Because of federal privacy rules, college info may come to you, not your parents, by snail mail or e-mail. So if you’ve been using high school e-mail, switch to your college e-mail account.

Finalize gap year details if it's on your radar to pursue other interests before heading to college or other education programs. Discuss specifics for deferring admission, and complete any required paperwork.

Avoid senioritis! Your school-to-be wants to see you finish the year strong. You’ll be asked to send in your final high school transcript, so don’t allow your grades to falter in the final stretch. Need an incentive? Glimpse some differences you'll face (PDF) at college.

Search for a summer job. Most colleges expect students to pitch in for college expenses. Create a resume that showcases your abilities and work ethic, and practice managing your money — you’ll need to perfect that skill next fall!

Send thank-you notes to everyone who helped you this year. It’s old-fashioned, but do it anyway. E-mail thank-yous are fine — just send ’em! Then congratulate yourself (and your parents) for completing the college admissions process!

Seniors, you’re almost there! Take the next steps: Sign up for orientation, housing, and meal plans; respond to requests (roommate preferences, course selection, and more), and figure out financing, if needed.

Paying your way? Here’s how one student did it (PDF). If you need financing, consider federal education loans before private loans. Sign up for work-study early — the best jobs go first — and ask about tuition payment plans to reduce the amount you have to pay at one time.

Preregister for courses. Questions about professors? Check their ratings. Check if your transcript and AP scores arrived. AP courses or dual-credit classes may qualify for college credit (and save you time and money).

Sign up for orientation. Most colleges offer day- or week-long orientation programs. Take advantage of them — these are great opportunities to connect with other students before classes begin. Check out student blogs to get a sense of what to expect.

Contact your roommate. Discuss sharing large items such as a mini-fridge, microwave, or coffeepot. Cut costs and get your eco on by using second-hand items. Start simple with just the essentials — you can add stuff later on.

Think about travel and what to pack. Flying? Book early for the best airfare. Look for sales, plan purchases, and keep furnishings simple (posters!). Buy extra-long sheets to fit dorm-room beds, but forgo unnecessary dorm decor.

Get physical. Fill out health forms and sign up for insurance if needed. (Be sure to send in any insurance waivers to avoid fees.) Make doctor appointments early — you’ll need an exam before you step onto that campus!

Search for deals on books. Find out what coursebooks you’ll need and search for them early (check the edition required). Look for discounted or used copies to save big bucks. Try half.com or amazon.com, or look into renting your books.

Got a summer gig? Save for college expenses next fall. Create a spending plan for the summer so you know where your money goes. Keep credit cards under control (PDF), and check out these money management tips (PDF).

Expect the unexpected. Be prepared for some ups and downs in the year ahead. Keep these college survival tips (PDF) in mind (as you prepare for the adventures to come. And remember, VSAC is ready to help you all the way through college.

Juniors, you're now officially a “rising” senior! With junior year complete, the focus revs up for college or other plans after high school. Get to know VSAC as you decide on a direction for your future, and take this summer to jump-start the application process.

Make summer count. Follow your interests! Volunteer, work, or attend a summer learning program. Who knows? Your experiences might even be worth writing about for your application essay (PDF). Do something that matters to you and meets your goals.

Explore your future. Use VSAC Web tools such as “School Finder” at VT Guidance Central, visit the VSAC Resource Center in downtown Winooski, or get college guidebooks and other resources through VSAC’s interlibrary loan.

Think about your “wish list” criteria (PDF), considering the academic program, location and student life, and financial fit as you look for programs that are right for you. Don't rule out a college because it seems too expensive until you talk with VSAC and the college's financial aid office.

Take a test drive. Unsure about where to go? Visit campuses during summer, coordinating with family travel. Sign up for a campus tour, attend an info session, and get a sense of the campus vibe. The more you can do now, the easier it will be in the fall.

Indicate that you're interested. Set up interviews (PDF) in person or by phone with admissions reps (if available). Be yourself, and have an answer for “why do you want to go here?” Find out what colleges look for (PDF).

Planning to take SAT or ACT exams a last time? Register now to be certain you get the locations and dates you prefer. Use free test-prep tools so that you're ready come fall.

Read and relax. Reading is one of the best preparations for college (and standardized tests). Take a book with you to the hammock, pool, or beach. And be sure to get some down time — the pressures of applying will come soon enough!

Focus the search. Update your college “wish list” (PDF) as you look for colleges that fit your revised criteria. Don’t exclude a college simply because it seems too expensive until you check on financial aid. Aiming for a list of five to eight schools to apply to is reasonable; 20 is not!

Visit colleges, coordinating with any family travel plans. Call ahead to arrange a campus tour, info session, and informal interview (PDF). Can you picture yourself there? For an inside look at what other students have to say, go to www.unigo.com.

Discuss college costs and options. Talk to your parents! What are their plans for paying for college? Wondering about financial aid? Plan to attend a free Paying for College info night this fall at a nearby high school. Explore ideas for reducing college costs (PDF).

Register for the fall SAT or ACT standardized tests if you want to improve your scores. Use test-prep tools to prepare, while you have time to study before senior year begins!

Organize for what's ahead. Use multipocket folders for filing application info and financial aid materials. Create a checklist (PDF) of deadlines, test and transcript submissions, fees, and required forms for colleges on your list.

Compose college essays (PDF). Just get started! Don’t wait until the last minute — this is a critical part of your application. Collect your thoughts while you have some down time. Even a rough draft will give you a head start in September.

Sign up for e-mail reminders from VSAC to stay on track for senior year. Check out College Pathways resources on applying to college, majors and careers, scholarships, financial aid, and more so that you know what to expect in the months to come.