A Simplified College Admissions Timeline: What to Do and When

The college admissions process can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not sure when to start or what to prioritize. Here's a streamlined year-by-year guide to help students and families stay on track, from 9th grade to college move-in day.

9th Grade: Build a Foundation

Freshman year is about exploration and self-discovery. Start by identifying your interests, values, and strengths through personality and values assessments. Get involved in extracurriculars—clubs, sports, the arts, or volunteering—and track all activities and achievements in a running log.

Meet with your school counselor early and regularly. Parents should begin learning about college costs and financial planning. If you're a student-athlete, review NCAA and NAIA recruiting guidelines.

10th Grade: Go Deeper

Continue your involvement in activities and look for opportunities to deepen your commitment or take on leadership roles. Attend local college fairs and keep your grades strong—10th-grade academics matter.

This is also a good time to explore potential majors and careers, take interest assessments, and begin building a preliminary college list. Visit local colleges if possible, and continue conversations with your school counselor about course selection and long-term planning.

11th Grade: Get Focused

Junior year is the most important academic year for college admissions. Take challenging courses and do your best to maintain strong grades. Start visiting colleges and refining your college list based on your interests, goals, and academic profile.

You should also begin preparing for the SAT or ACT by taking practice tests and building a study plan. If you're pursuing athletics or the arts, register for the appropriate eligibility centers and begin preparing portfolios or recruitment materials.

In the spring, ask two academic teachers for letters of recommendation, and create a spreadsheet to track your college application and scholarship deadlines.

Summer Before 12th Grade: Plan and Write

Use your summer wisely. Finalize your college list and begin writing your Common App personal statement and school-specific supplemental essays. Create a spreadsheet of each school’s application platform, deadlines, and requirements—including whether they offer or require interviews.

Also, continue researching scholarships and building a list of opportunities.

12th Grade: Apply and Stay Organized

In August and September, finalize your essays and begin submitting Early Action and Early Decision applications (usually due by November 1). Ask your counselor for a recommendation letter and request that transcripts and letters be sent.

Complete the FAFSA and, if required, the CSS Profile as early as possible in October. Don’t forget to send test scores (if needed), attend any final college visits, and confirm that all parts of your application have been submitted.

By December, finish your Regular Decision applications (aim for before winter break) and continue applying to scholarships.

After Applying: Wait, Review, and Decide

Between January and March, check application portals and emails for updates. If deferred or waitlisted, send a letter of continued interest and any new updates.

From March to April, compare financial aid packages and visit campuses (if possible) before making a final decision. You’ll need to commit to a college by May 1 and inform your school counselor of your choice.

Summer After 12th Grade: Get Ready for College

Finalize your housing and meal plans, sign up for orientation, and register for classes. Make travel and dorm arrangements, and connect with your future roommate(s). Don’t forget to continue applying for scholarships and reach out to your academic advisor at your new college. Enjoy your last summer before college!

Final Tip

The process is long, but manageable if broken into phases. Start early, stay organized, and give yourself time to reflect and revise—especially on your essays. If you want help with your college planning process, reach out to College Hive!